The New England Aquarium: Conservation Education Volunteer

HIGH NEED: Friday & Saturday shifts.

Time commitment:

One half day (9am- 1:30 pm or 1pm-5/6pm) onsite and approximately two hours of remote virtual training per week for a period of three months.

Summary:

Conservation Education Volunteers represent the New England Aquarium by interacting with guests of all ages and backgrounds. They proactively engage guests throughout the Aquarium, uphold proper safety protocols, and share animal/exhibit knowledge at different stations throughout the New England Aquarium.

Responsibilities:

Connect guests with the New England Aquarium’s mission by answering questions and initiating conversations throughout the main building gallery spaces.

Engage with guests by sharing fun biofacts and cart activities throughout the main building.

Help maintain the safety of animals and guests at Interactive Exhibits while providing educational opportunities for guests.

Assist staff with additional interpretive opportunities.

Ensure all Aquarium policies and procedures are followed (i.e., wearing masks if required, no food or drinks in the exhibit spaces, no spitting or throwing items into exhibits, etc.)

Training is required and available free of charge to volunteers. It covers topics such as customer service, information interpretation, animal knowledge, and station-specific responsibilities and expectations. Volunteers will have access to virtual trainings and resources to complete and look over on their own time in addition to in-person mentoring onsite to learn more about NEAq and its inhabitants.

Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm and interest in meeting and working with a high volume of Aquarium guests weekly.

• Comfort working independently and as part of a team.

• Comfort working with guests and staff of diverse abilities, ages, and backgrounds.

• Willingness to learn about Aquarium exhibits, marine science, and messaging around ocean conservation.

• Ability to communicate effectively in noisy and crowded conditions.

• Must be comfortable moving up and down stairs or taking an elevator to multiple building levels throughout the day.

• Successful Volunteers will be on their feet for most of their shift. There will be stools available upon request. Additional accommodation requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• Must be at least 16 years old.

To Apply: Visit serve.neaq.org and create a volunteer account. Once registered you can search and apply for available opportunities.