Careers

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This full-time, permanent position is exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position includes full benefits coverage.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Preferred start date of May 1^st.

POSITION TITLE: Conservation Engagement Manager

REPORTS TO: Director of Mission Engagement  

JOB SUMMARY: The Conservation Engagement Manager directs and oversees the development, organization, facilitation, and evaluation of conservation engagement projects at the Aquarium, which may include citizen science projects, collaborative restoration work, and field experiences. The Conservation Engagement manager actively works to engage new and under-reached audiences.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Works with the Director of Mission Engagement to establish and maintain a vision and a comprehensive plan for conservation engagement at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Oversee the creation of a strategic conservation engagement and program portfolio for the Aquarium.  
2. Works collaboratively with other departments (education, husbandry, volunteer engagement) on prioritizing, developing and implementing conservation engagement programs.
3. Work with local, regional, national and possibly international partners to identify strategies for the Aquarium to actively support and engage with field conservation projects (clarification – at this stage the Mission Engagement department is not starting field conservation projects of its own).
4. Coordinates, develops, promotes and leads conservation programs, such as citizen science, restoration, or field experiences with diversified audiences.
5. Work with partners to maintain and grow the sunflower star community science project. Engage partners, train volunteers and report on progress. Align with the AZA SAFE program as appropriate. 
6. Work with partners to develop and grow a wrack line community science project. Engage partners, train volunteers and report on progress.  Add shark egg case program that contributes to AZA Shark and Ray program (collaborate with Shark Trust).
7. Recruit and train volunteers to conduct nurdle and NOAA marine debris protocols and to sort plastics. Compile and submit data. Conduct summer 2026 programs and determine strategy for following years.
8. Community coffee cup project – recruit and engage community partners, conduct outreach around project. Maintain and expand as appropriate.
9. Work with the Director of Mission Engagement to align Aquarium Conservation Partnership DEAI, climate, and plastic priorities with local community work.
10. Serve as a resource for volunteers by connecting them with organizations, individuals and resources that can support conservation engagement.
11. Remain up to date on national, Oregon and local conservation engagement projects and trends as well as preferred practices, current research, and topics related to marine and coastal conservation.
12. Work with other marine and conservation organizations to advance ocean and coastal conservation, such as the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Cascade Head Biosphere Reserve, Marine Reserve Community Groups, Watershed Councils, SOLVE, State Parks, ODFW, and the Shark Trust.
13. Present at various speaker opportunities.
14. Participate on Aquarium committees as a Mission Engagement Department Representative. Contributes as appropriate and acts as liaison between the department and committee.

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all inclusive.  The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

May supervise interns, and volunteers as needed.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Required Degree and Experience:

Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in Environmental Studies, Conservation Science or Conservation Education, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in Marine Resource Management, Environmental Studies, Conservation Science or Conservation Education is desirable. A minimum of three years’ experience in a position related to conservation engagement/field work/citizen science is required. Any acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the background necessary to perform the functions of the position may substitute for the above requirements.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of

• Program and project management principles and techniques
• Preferred practices for engaging a diversity of stakeholders with conservation and field projects.
• Extensive knowledge in principles and practices of conservation science and engagement
• Multiple learning styles, natural history interpretation or other relevant area, and other techniques relevant to formal and non-formal learning environments
• Conservation organizations, businesses and government agencies affecting conservation science and education
• Fundamentals of classroom and group management
• Program planning and evaluation processes
• Customer service best practices
• Group dynamics and group problem-solving techniques, such as leading meetings, gaining support while dealing with complex subjects, resolving conflicts and reaching consensus
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to incorporate different perspectives, and work with diverse populations and stakeholders

Ability to

• Effectively organize work, manage time, prioritize tasks, and follow both written and oral direction
• Be responsive to and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders served or impacted by programs
• Build on current partner relationships and participate in creating new programs
• Plan and lead workshops, seminars, and other types of engagement opportunities
• Effectively communicate ideas, program concepts and delivery, both orally and in writing 
• Use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs (MS Office products) is required. Experience with database management is desirable.

• Work under limited supervision and as a member of a team.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves considerable standing and walking when conducting field work. The ability to access field sites is required.  The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds is required.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work involves continuous mental and visual attention involving reading, analyzing, visualizing, or otherwise performing very involved, comprehensive work.  When in the field, the work involves mental and visual attention that assures the safety of self and program participants.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station. Travel is required in Oregon to conduct field experiences or presentations. Field work will involve accessing beaches, rocky intertidal areas, estuaries, and coastal forests.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This part-time, permanent position is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Aquarium Educator (Part-Time)

REPORTS TO: Learning & Engagement Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Aquarium Educator delivers public programs and presentations in support of the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s mission.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads fee-based programs such as Behind-the-Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters.
2. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager in collaboration with the Development Department, leads VIP/donor tours and animal encounters as assigned.
3. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager, leads career-focused behind-the-scenes tours for school and other academic groups.
4. Follows and enforces established policies for tours (max participants, min age, animal handling, service dog policies, safety protocols, etc.), while monitoring participants’ behavior.
5. Provides excellent customer service; Interacts with participants by encouraging and responding to questions; Assists those with special needs as required and/or works closely with any attendants.
6. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads or co-leads public presentations during scheduled animal feeding and training sessions.
7. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager develops and facilitates value-added programming for guests.
8. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager in collaboration with the Dive Team, delivers and facilitates dive presentations from the front or “dry” side of the exhibit
9. Disseminates accurate information regarding the natural history, husbandry, conservation, and exhibit maintenance of the animals on display utilizing effective interpretation techniques and best practices for communicating with informal audiences of all ages.
10. Responds to public inquiries about education programs, the Oregon Coast Aquarium or general animal and conservation information.
11. Assists Learning & Engagement Manager and Specialists with data entry, survey dissemination and materials preparation for programs, events and trainings.
12. Assists with the development and implementation of programming and logistics for special day events, such as World Ocean Day, Tuna Fishery Day, Rockfish Day, Crab Fishery Day, and Shark and Ray Awareness Day.
13. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and utilizing approved policies and procedures, assists with care, handling and public interpretation of Ambassador Animals.
14. Attends professional departmental meetings as scheduled.

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Experience in an informal education facility (camp, museum, zoo, aquarium, science center) in the natural sciences, education or a related field is required.  

Skills necessary for this position include excellent customer service skills and good control of groups using positive methods. Incumbents must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills that allow them to work closely and effectively with people from different backgrounds, cultures, ages and beliefs. Strong writing and verbal skills are essential. Knowledge of and ability to use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs is required. The ability to work under limited supervision, both independently and in a team environment is required. The incumbent must also have excellent time management and organizational skills.

Incumbents must have the ability to:

• Facilitate programs utilizing written interpretive plans.

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Interpret rules and regulations; follow all Aquarium safety protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Assess and evaluate situations effectively and with flexibility.
• Exert optimal effort in successfully completing tasks.
• Work within and contribute to the effectiveness of a team, respecting differences.
• Respond in a calm manner to emergencies.

• Climb stairs; move 50 pounds when necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves remaining stationary and moving through the facility when conducting programming. The work includes moving equipment up to 50 pounds. Some programs and tasks are conducted outside and staff is exposed to various weather conditions. The work includes significant walking throughout the facility, up to 2 miles.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work involves learning and remembering new information, problem solving, and making decisions. When conducting programs or assisting with animal care, the work involves focusing and paying visual attention to assure the safety of program participants and animals.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station. The successful applicant must also be willing to work holidays and occasional evenings.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This is a part-time variable hours position.

This position is a non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Event Staff

REPORTS TO: Catering and Events Manager

JOB SUMMARY: Event staff are responsible for event set-up, serving banquet food and beverage to Aquarium guests, along with clean-up and breakdown for special events during Aquarium business hours and evening events. Event staff may have just one function during the event or as a whole event. Staff may be scheduled for only the set-up before the event; servicing the event with the guests and/or the breakdown of event after guests leave.   

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Serves guests at banquets and special functions.
2. Assists in setting up the event room and/or spaces to be used, from start to finish (or as assigned). The position includes finishing up the event with the clearing of dishes, linen, and cleaning up all service areas used for the event.
3. This may include sit down meals in which there will be delivery of food and beverage to tables; following procedure as trained for consistency among staff.
4. Majority of events will be buffet style. Event staff will be alert to maintaining adequate food and beverage levels to keep guests flowing through.
5. Remove dishes and utensils; cleans tables and chairs; fills sugar, salt and pepper containers; sweeps floors.
6. Assists in setting up for buffet lines, special functions and meetings as needed.
7. Assists with dishwashing as needed.
8. Event staff must maintain a current Oregon Food Handlers Card and a current license with the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) and adhere to the rules and regulations of both if serving food and/or alcohol.
9. Provide courteous service to our guests and is cordial to all team members.
10. Maintains open and clear communication with all staff members.
11. Event staff must be available to and work at least one event per month.
12. Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

• Current food handler’s card is required and OLCC beverage server license is preferred.
• Prior food and beverage server experience is preferred.
• Must be able to handle multiple tasks.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and patrons.
• Must have the ability to satisfactorily answer patrons’ questions regarding food items or service.
• Must possess a positive attitude and adhere to grooming and dress codes.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves considerable standing and walking throughout the day, up to 5 miles. The ability to ascend and descend ladders/steps is required.  The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds is required.

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This full time, seasonal position starts March 2026 and will be for a duration of 8 weeks. 

This position is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Food Service Cashier (Seasonal)

REPORTS TO:  Café Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Food and Beverage Cashier is a key frontline team member responsible for delivering outstanding guest service across various food and beverage stations, including cafés, kiosks, and concession areas. This role combines high-quality food and drink preparation with accurate cash handling, strong communication, and a commitment to cleanliness and safety. The cashier ensures food quality and compliance with health regulations, maintains inventory, supports fast-paced operations with adaptability, and uses digital systems efficiently. With a focus on professionalism, inclusivity, and collaboration, this position plays a critical role in creating a welcoming and efficient service environment, while also performing additional duties as needed to support the overall success of the team.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Delivers exceptional guest experiences by providing prompt, friendly, and informed service across all food and beverage stations, including café, kiosk, and concession areas.
2. Prepares and serves coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, and food items accurately and efficiently, following standardized recipes, safety procedures, and quality guidelines.
3. Executes cash handling and POS transactions with precision, adhering to established policies to ensure accuracy and accountability.
4. Maintains proper food safety and sanitation standards by holding a valid food handler’s card and complying with health regulations and internal protocols at all times.
5. Monitors food quality and temperature controls throughout the shift, ensuring all items meet required safety and OCAq standards.
6. Performs food prep, portioning, and production support tasks to meet service demands and reduce wait times during peak periods.
7. Keeps the service area and dining spaces clean and organized, including sanitizing surfaces, removing trash, sweeping, and restocking supplies to support a safe, welcoming environment.
8. Communicates clearly and respectfully with guests, coworkers, and supervisors to maintain a collaborative and efficient team environment.
9. Demonstrates adaptability and resilience, managing fluctuating guest volumes and shifting priorities while maintaining service standards.
10. Provides inclusive and culturally respectful service, ensuring all guests feel welcomed, valued, and accommodated.
11. Maintains proper stock levels and inventory rotation, alerting supervisors to shortages and contributing to effective waste reduction and replenishment.
12. Uses digital systems and equipment effectively, including POS systems, order displays, and communication tools, with a willingness to learn new technologies as needed.
13. Adheres to company dress code and grooming standards, presenting a professional and approachable appearance in line with OCAq expectations.
14. Follows all workplace safety procedures, including proper equipment handling, spill prevention, and emergency protocols to ensure a safe environment for guests and staff.
15. Performs other duties as assigned or as logically required, which may arise as a natural extension of the role to support team and operational success.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

• Current food handler’s card is required.
• Prior food handling and cash handling is preferred but not required.
• Must be able to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to stand, bend, kneel, and lift

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This part-time, adjunct position is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position serves as support to core staffing.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Operations Technician (Adjunct)

REPORTS TO: Operations Manager

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for ensuring that Visitors, Staff, and Volunteers have a safe and enjoyable experience at the Aquarium. Provides high-quality customer service while working as a team to aid in day-to-day functions of the facility. 

1. Enforces Aquarium visitor policies through positive contact with visitors. Provides information and explains rules and policies.
2. Assists staff from all departments with various daily tasks as needed/ upon availability. This may include standing in for admissions staff, completing restroom checks for custodial staff, forklifting pallets for husbandry, completing life support checks, etc.
3. Responds to first aid calls and renders appropriate treatment or contacts outside assistance when necessary.
4. Notes and removes possible unsafe and unsightly conditions.
5. Initiates and carries out lightning and high-wind event protocols when appropriate.
6. Monitors all marine mammal and pelican presentations and enforces Aquarium rules and policies as needed.
7. Assists with and facilitates emergency drills including but not limited to fire drills, tsunami drills, first aid drills, dive drills, power outages, and animal escape drills. Writes, files, and maintains appropriate reports and records for these drills and/or events.
8. Makes security rounds around the Aquarium and patrols aquarium parking lots throughout shift.
9. Initiates pass-on information communication with TCB Security (contracted evening security company) and appropriate Aquarium staff and/or volunteers.
10. Assists Café staff, Admissions staff, and/or Event staff with obtaining change; performs safe entries with Admissions, Café, Coffee and Administration and Finance staff and provides / maintains documentation of any and all safe activity.
11. Conducts Monthly (or more frequent) collections from penny smashers and donation boxes.
12. Prepares incident and accident reports as necessary to document situations and actions taken, in accordance with OR-OSHA and SAIF standards.
13. Processes new employees and volunteers. Inputs employee information on access control employee database. Processes terminated employees, interns, and sometimes volunteers.
14. Attends appropriate trainings and seminars to increase efficiency and knowledge base for job.
15. Calls appropriate staff from other functions to respond to situations as necessary. Aids in communication between departments. Communication via radio, phone, email, and messaging systems.
16. Delivers mail to Aquarium receptionist and receives packages from carrier.
17. Assists with ensuring that the Aquarium is ready to open and close each day; turns on lights and systems, prevents access to behind-the-scenes areas, locks and unlocks doors, ensures general facility is in operational condition.
18. Initiates and executes lost child protocol and lost vulnerable adult protocol as necessary.
19. Logs and keeps a record of Aquarium keys and badges for current and past staff.
20. Coordinates and reserves use of Aquarium vehicles.
21. Greets visitors in the lobby and ensures ticket purchase.

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all-inclusive.  The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities (minimum levels)

High school equivalency required. Minimum one year experience in customer service required. Current first aid and CPR certification is required (can be provided upon hire within 30 days). Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs is required. A strong sense of problem solving, critical thinking, organization, and conflict resolution desired. Approved applicants will be subject to a criminal history background check.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves considerable standing and walking throughout the day, up to 12 miles. The ability to ascend and descend ladders/steps is required. The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds is required – a hand truck is available to use for this task as needed.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work involves continuous mental and visual attention, including monitoring and responding to guests on a daily basis.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The work is typically performed outside in all weather conditions, including rain and wind. Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.