Job Duties:

1. Assist the Manager of Visitor Programs and Interpretation with organizing, developing, and planning onsite interpretation and visitor service programs geared towards guests of all ages.
2. Conducts regular training opportunities for staff, volunteers, and interns in interpreting MSAQ exhibits and programs.
3. Ensure a consistent quality of customer service that exceeds MSAQ’s standard of excellence.
4. Support and supervise all daily onsite interpretation and guest experience staff and volunteers.
5. Support MSAQ’s conservation and research projects and empower a love for learning for all team members and guests.
6. Assist with creating and managing daily presentation and interpretive schedules; coordinate with theAnimal Care team with regards to animal encounters and Sea Trek.
7. Resolve staff and guest disputes with professionalism and empathy.
8. Help maintain the overall appearance of exhibits and interpretive content and supplies.
9. Follow all MississippiAquarium policies and procedures as well as represent the Mississippi Aquarium in a professional manner in and outside of the aquarium.
10. Work in a collaborative team environment, cross-train and support all other Guest Experience areas with projects, planning, and training.
11. Fill in and support daily operational needs when necessary, including tours, presentations, encounters, education programs, and interpreting exhibits like the touch tank, aviary, dolphins, river otter and tunnel.
12. Work weekends, evenings, and overnights when necessary.

Qualifications:

1. Minimum of 2-3 years as an interpreter or educator in an informal education setting  
2. Minimum 4-year bachelor’s degree  
3. Strong verbal and writing skills  
4. Knowledge of current practices in conservation, scientific research, and environmental education practices.
5. Demonstrated public speaking skills and comfortable around small and large groups of different ages.  
6. Experience in proper animal handling procedures and understanding of operant conditioning techniques.

Preferred Qualifications:  

1. 2 years’ experience in a supervisory role
2. Certification with the National Association for Interpretation
3. Proficiency with Microsoft OfficeProducts