Department Information:

The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ (DNCR) vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational and economic future of North Carolina. Our mission is to improve quality of life by creating opportunities to experience excellence in the arts, history, libraries and nature throughout North Carolina. The Department works to stimulate learning, inspire creativity, preserve the state's history, conserve the state's natural heritage, encourage recreation and cultural tourism, and promote economic development. Our goal is to promote equity and inclusion among our employees and our programming to reflect and celebrate our state’s diverse population, culture, and history by expanding engagement with diverse individuals and communities. We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team.

Division Information:

The mission of the North Carolina Aquariums is to inspire appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments. This mission is achieved by attracting, retaining and developing a world-class team of professionals; providing visitors with outstanding exhibits, experiences and customer service; practicing sustainability, internal customer service and fiscal responsibility; and working to save and restore aquatic species and habitats.

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located in Manteo, NC and is nine miles from the Atlantic coastline in Nags Head. The 61,000 square-foot facility is sited on 16 acres overlooking the Croatan Sound and houses over 1600 animals in its collection. Over 280,000 guests visit the aquarium each year to see the largest collection of sharks in North Carolina, learn about sea turtle conservation, participate in a variety of programs, enjoy the beauty of the area, and think about how special North Carolina’s waterways are.

Weekend, evening and holiday work required. Occasional travel is required for Aquarium programs. Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license. If selected for hire, prior to first day of work a background check will be completed. A skills assessment may be conducted during the interviewing process for this position.

Description of Work:

This is a seasonal position, slated to be filled January through November 2020. Special Activities at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island are hands-on programs with small groups of participants, ranging in duration from one to several hours at a time. Such programs include but are not limited to: children’s summer camps (one-day and week-long, nonresidential), kayaking outings, stand-up paddleboarding, crabbing and fishing, marine animal programs, behind-the-scenes tours, toddler programs, birthday parties, overnight programs, dissection labs, beach ecology trips, and salt marsh field trips. Special Activities Instructors will both assist with these activities AND lead programs independently.

Daily requirements of the instructor will include conducting programs, leading summer camps, handling live animals, driving a fifteen-passenger van with field trip participants, occasional office work, and other duties as assigned by the Special Activities Coordinator and Education Curator.

Applicants should be articulate, enthusiastic, and have a strong work ethic. Prior experience working with the public, adaptability to different teaching situations, the ability to work well with others, a flexible schedule, CPR & First Aid certification, and a valid driver’s license are all required. (CPR/First Aid Certification must be obtained within the first month of employment, if not already acquired.)

The following skills and/or current certifications are preferred:

1. Lifeguard Certification,
2. kayak/stand-up paddleboarding experience,
3. teaching experience,
4. water safety skills,
5. experience working with children,
6. animal handling experience,
7. working knowledge of Outer Banks flora and fauna, 
8. degree (or pursuit of a degree) in Biology, Marine Sciences, Natural Resources, or a related field.
9. Candidates must be able to lift at least 50 pounds, and be able to spend extended periods of time outdoors.

Minimum Education and Experience:

High school or General Educational Development (GED) and one year of experience as related to knowledge, skills, and abilities in area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.