Job Description
Job Title: Coordinator of Live Interpretation Location: New York Aquarium
Department: Education Reports to: Manager of Live Interpretation
Type: Seasonal Duration: May - November 2025 with possible extension Pay rate: $26 per hour
Schedule: • 20-35 hours per week, 3-5 days/week (more hours/days during the summer season) •
Must be able to work Saturday & Sundays and some weekdays, holidays, and various morning and/or evening events as needed.
POSITION SUMMARY The Coordinator of Live Interpretation position will provide programmatic, administrative, and operational support to the Live Interpretation team at the New York Aquarium, which primarily consists of, but is not limited to, three areas - Wildlife Theater, Visitor Engagement and Adult Volunteer Programs. This position will work with numerous aquarium departments for daily operations and special events. This is a great opportunity for those interested in engaging the public about science and conservation, using interpretation and theater techniques to create a fun learning opportunity for our visitors, and supporting and mentoring a team of interpretive staff and volunteers.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES • Support the planning, production, and delivery of live interpretation programs-including tours, exhibit talks, touch pool interactions, Wildlife Theater shows, onsite science learning activities, and special events. • Coordinate daily operations and serve as on-site supervisor; Alongside the Manager of Live Interpretation, facilitates schedule creation, timesheet submission, interdepartmental communication, trainings, rehearsals, and live performance support. • Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and training of 20+ staff and volunteers; foster positive and safe working culture for the Live Interpretation team. • Assemble, troubleshoot, and monitor audio and related tech equipment for live shows; assist with daily stage set-up, breakdown, cleaning and prop/costume upkeep. • Deliver interpretive presentations and customer service during programs and seasonal events. • Track and report visitor engagement metrics using spreadsheets or databases; maintain effective communication within the team and across departments.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS EDUCATION Minimum • You are a college graduate or current college senior who has a strong interest and/or background in Theater, Environmental Science, and/or Education and have experience working with the public and assisting with events. Preferred • A background in volunteer services, theater arts, and/or interpretive programming.
OTHER SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS • Be comfortable working outside in different weather conditions. • You are reliable, flexible and accountable. • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and travel efficiently across the park. • Must have a driver's license and be comfortable driving in NYC areas. • Must be able to lift 25 lbs. • Prompt and attentive to detail. • You have excellent customer service skills and are friendly and outgoing. • You can work independently and as part of a team. • You have excellent verbal communication and presentation skills to interpret science concepts in a fast-paced learning environment. • You have worked with diverse groups in formal or informal learning environments. • Bilingual (in any language) a plus.
WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT • We work in a fun environment, in a natural, park-like setting, surrounded by amazing wildlife. • We value team members and community partners from all backgrounds and cultures with different skills, abilities, and perspectives. • We ensure that everyone has an opportunity to fully contribute to our mission.
PERKS • Opportunities to grow at WCS through enrichment opportunities, such as, a career exposure lunchtime series and a professional development workshop series • Parking at the Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium with a staff permit • Access for employees to visit WCS Zoos & Aquarium on days off with their staff ID • Courtesy guest tickets after 45 days of employment in good standing to visit WCS Zoos & Aquarium • Employee discounts on food, merchandise, and programs
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