Careers

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

This full time, seasonal position from May 2026 to September 2026.

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: Seasonal Admissions Associate

REPORTS TO: Visitor Services Manager

JOB SUMMARY: As a key representative of the Aquarium, the Admissions Associate plays a vital role in delivering exceptional visitor experiences by providing friendly and efficient customer service. This position is responsible for selling admissions, memberships, experiences, and other related products. The Admissions Associate serves as the first point of contact, offering accurate information, handling transactions with precision, and assisting visitors with special needs. Additionally, this role supports operational efficiency by participating in training programs, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, assisting with emergency procedures as needed, proactively contributing to business growth and guest satisfaction.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Greet visitors warmly and provide accurate information about the Aquarium, exhibits, and events.
2. Process admissions, experience, and membership sales using a computerized cash register, ensuring accuracy in transactions. *Manual processing as directed and by need
3. Actively promote membership benefits, special events, and experiences to drive sales and enhance customer engagement.
4. Answer phone calls, route inquiries appropriately, and provide general public information.
5. Participate in customer service and sales training programs to enhance guest interactions and increase sales.
6. Identify and assist visitors with unique needs, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment.
7. Monitor guest flow and provide crowd management support to maintain an efficient and pleasant admission process.
8. Support emergency procedures, including building evacuations, in accordance with the crisis management plan.
9. Handle lost and found items responsibly, logging and routing them as required.
10. Perform opening and closing duties, including morning counts and group check-ins, to ensure smooth daily operations.
11. Gather guest feedback through casual interactions and share insights with management to improve visitor experiences and operational efficiency.
12. Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work/guest area to uphold a positive visitor experience.

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

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

High school equivalency required.  Minimum of two years’ experience as a cashier. Must be able to lift 30 lbs. Must be able stand for long periods of times. Experience working in a high-traffic visitor-oriented facility preferred.  Experience using computers is also required.

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

This full time, seasonal position from May 2026 to September 2026.

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 DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Seasonal Ambassador Animal Care Assistant

REPORTS TO: Learning & Engagement Manager

JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager, the Seasonal Ambassador Animal Care Assistant is responsible for the care of Mission Engagement Department Ambassador Animals. In addition, the Seasonal Ambassador Animal Care Assistant delivers public programs and presentations in support of the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s mission.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Participates in the daily cleaning, feeding, and husbandry of ambassador animals in accordance with standards set by the Learning & Engagement Manager.
2. Reports unusual conditions or behaviors to the team and assists in their evaluation and treatment as needed, and in accordance with manager and veterinarian recommendations.
3. Records daily observations, enclosure maintenance, and diet consumption. Maintains animal care, enrichment, and animal program participation records in TRACKS.
4. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and utilizing approved policies and procedures for handling and interpretation, leads or co-leads ambassador animal programs.
5. Facilitates value-added programming for guests.
6. Disseminates accurate information regarding the natural history, husbandry, conservation, and exhibit maintenance of the animals on display utilizing effective interpretation techniques and preferred practices for communicating with informal audiences of all ages.
7. Follows and enforces established policies for programs (max participants, min age, animal handling, service dog policies, safety protocols, etc.), while monitoring participants’ behavior.
8. Provides excellent customer service; Interacts with participants by encouraging and responding to questions; Assists guests with accessibility requests.
9. 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 caring for animals at an AZA facility, wildlife rehab center, nature center, conservation center, or similar 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:

• Observe animals for any signs of illness or injury and notice changes in behavior.
• Communicate effectively with guests and staff.
• Facilitate programs utilizing written interpretive plans.
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Interpret rules and regulations; follow all safety protocols
• 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, lift 50 pounds when necessary.

The successful applicant must also be willing to work holidays and occasional evenings.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves remaining stationary and moving through the facility. The work includes moving equipment up to 50 pounds, reaching and stretching with hands and arms; and kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Some programs and tasks are conducted outside and staff is exposed to various weather conditions.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

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

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors. May be exposed to cold, wet, or humid conditions. Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station.

The incumbent must be able to work holidays, weekends, and occasional evenings.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

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

This full-time, temporary position starting mid May through June 2026.

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: Custodian (Full-time Temporary)

REPORTS TO: Custodial Services Coordinator

JOB SUMMARY: A Custodian is responsible for performing custodial tasks as assigned to maintain the interior building surfaces, fixtures, and furnishings in a clean, sanitary, appealing, and welcoming condition for staff and visitors.

SHIFT: Expected base schedule of  2:00 – 10:30 PM and may support morning shift 6:00a-2:30p as needed

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Participates in the performance of custodial tasks, including, but not limited to:
2. Floor cleaning in exhibit areas, offices, food service areas, restrooms, stairways, and storerooms by sweeping, mopping, polishing, and vacuuming.
3. Washes, dusts, waxes, and polishes fixtures and furniture.
4. Empties trash containers, waste baskets, and recycling bins.
5. Cleans and/or replaces light fixtures and bulbs.
6. Washes wall, doors, windows, mirrors, and fixtures.
7. Cleans acrylic exhibit tank viewing windows.
8. Restocks restroom supplies.
9. Operates hand and power tools and maintains them in clean, good working order.
10. Follows safety practices and rules on all tasks.
11. Completes records and reports as assigned.
12. Sets up and tears down tables and seating for various events and meetings.
13. Performs special tasks and assists other Aquarium functions in a variety of ways.
14. Participates on Aquarium committees as an Custodial Department Representative. Contributes as appropriate, and acts as liaison between the department and committee.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Current First Aid and CPR certification is desirable.  Ability to obtain and hold valid Oregon Driver’s License required.  Ability to work under limited supervision, both independently and in a team environment.

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 is a full-time, seasonal position from May 2026 to September 2026. 

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: Seasonal Educator

REPORTS TO: Learning & Engagement Manager

HOURS OF WORK: 32 hours/week between May – September 2026

JOB SUMMARY: The Seasonal 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 and in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads fee-based programs such as Behind-the-Scenes Tours and Animal Encounters.
2. Leads VIP/ donor tours and animal encounters as assigned.
3. Follows and enforces established policies for tours (max participants, min age, animal handling, service dog policies, safety protocols, etc.), while monitoring participants’ behavior.
4. Provides excellent customer service; Interacts with participants by encouraging and responding to questions; Assists guests with accessibility requests.
5. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads or co-leads public presentations during scheduled animal feeding and training sessions.
6. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and utilizing approved policies and procedures, assists with handling and public interpretation of ambassador animals.
7. Facilitates value-added programming for guests.
8. Disseminates accurate information regarding the natural history, husbandry, conservation, and exhibit maintenance of the animals on display utilizing effective interpretation techniques and preferred practices for communicating with informal audiences of all ages.
9. Responds to public inquiries about education programs, the Oregon Coast Aquarium or general animal and conservation information.
10. Assists Learning & Engagement Manager and Specialists with data entry, survey dissemination and materials preparation for programs, events and trainings.
11. 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 safety protocols
• 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, lift 50 pounds when necessary

The successful applicant must also be willing to work holidays and occasional evenings.

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.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work involves learning and remembering new information, problem solving, and making decisions. When conducting programs or working with animals, 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 incumbent must be able to work holidays, weekends, and occasional evenings.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

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

This full time, seasonal position from May 2026 to September 2026.

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 full-time, permanent position is non-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.

Closing Date: Open until filled, final deadline April 8^th

POSITION TITLE: Operations Technician

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. Completes monthly checkups on safety equipment including AEDs, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, emergency showers, emergency eye wash stations, etc. Maintains and periodically checks Aquarium emergency evacuation bags and flashlights.
7. Monitors all marine mammal and pelican presentations and enforces Aquarium rules and policies as needed.
8. 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.
9. Makes security rounds around the Aquarium and patrols aquarium parking lots throughout shift.
10. Maintains the Aquarium’s lost and found program.
11. Initiates pass-on information communication with TCB Security (contracted evening security company) and appropriate Aquarium staff and/or volunteers.
12. 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.
13. Conducts Monthly (or more frequent) collections from penny smashers and donation boxes.
14. Prepares incident and accident reports as necessary to document situations and actions taken, in accordance with OR-OSHA and SAIF standards.
15. Processes new employees, interns and sometimes volunteers. Includes creation of photo board photos and name badges, initiates employee data sheet and updates employee information as needed. Inputs employee information on access control employee database. Processes terminated employees, interns, and sometimes volunteers.
16. Assists with updates of Operations SOP manual (under the direction of the Operations Manager).
17. Assists with updating and maintaining facility maps including, but not limited to breakers and lighting, locations of emergency equipment, emergency staging areas, escape routes, etc.
18. Attends appropriate trainings and seminars to increase efficiency and knowledge base for job.
19. 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.
20. Participates on Aquarium committees as an Operations department representative. Contributes as appropriate, and acts as a liaison between the department and committee.
21. Delivers mail to Aquarium receptionist and receives packages from carrier. Facilitates deliveries from freight lines and outside vendors.
22. 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.
23. Monitors and maintains coin smashers and vending machines, performs necessary repairs
24. Initiates and executes lost child protocol and lost vulnerable adult protocol as necessary.
25. Updates vehicle registration and insurance documents when necessary. Maintains and distributes Aquarium vehicle usage forms.
26. Logs and keeps a record of Aquarium keys and badges for current and past staff and takes yearly inventory.
27. Coordinates and reserves use of Aquarium vehicles.
28. Ability to lift 50 lbs – a hand truck is available to use for this task as needed.
29. Greets visitors in the lobby and ensures ticket purchase.
30. 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.

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.

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

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

This is a limited-term position – grant funded for 3 years. AAUS Scientific Diver certification is required at time of hire.

Schedule: 40hrs/week, with required flexibility for fieldwork, vessel operations, evenings, weekends, and travel.

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.

Open until filled, first application review date April 21^st, 2026

POSITION TITLE: Research Technician (field intensive)

REPORTS TO: Animal Care and Dive Operations

JOB SUMMARY: The Oregon Coast Aquarium is seeking a highly capable Research Technician to support advanced field-based research and conservation programs along the Oregon coast. This position is designed for an individual with strong scientific diving, marine fieldwork, and technical skillsets who can contribute immediately to ongoing operations. The Research Technician plays a key role in executing AAUS scientific diving operations, vessel-based surveys, ROV missions, and data workflows supporting nearshore ecosystem monitoring, species recovery, and collaborative research initiatives. This is a field-intensive position requiring comfort working in dynamic ocean conditions and the ability to operate independently within established protocols.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot ROV systems (e.g., BlueROV2), including piloting, navigation, and sensor integration
• Conduct AAUS-compliant scientific diving to support subtidal surveys, monitoring, and conservation projects
• Participate in and support small vessel operations in nearshore and offshore environments under variable conditions
• Execute underwater and vessel-based data collection including biological surveys, video/photo documentation, and sampling
• Manage and QA/QC datasets including dive logs, survey data, ROV telemetry, and imagery
• Perform basic data processing and analysis using established workflows (Excel, R, Python, or similar)
• Maintain field readiness through equipment organization, maintenance, and repair
• Assist with deployment and recovery of field equipment including sensors, transects, and monitoring systems
• Support coordination with internal teams and external partners during field operations
• Contribute to technical reporting, documentation, and program deliverables
• Research vessel operation
• Participate in outreach and public engagement activities as needed

Secondary Responsibilities

• Assist with ensuring current documentation of diver paperwork (medicals, provider certifications, etc).
• Services, maintains, and repairs SCUBA and diving related equipment including regulators, BCDs, scuba cylinders & valves, gauges & dive computers, compressor & fill station, and wetsuits & drysuits.  Updates the appropriate equipment logs concerning this maintenance and repairs.
• Assists with routine maintenance of Research Vessel Gracie Lynn.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position provides supervision of on-site Aquarium dives and supplemental support (tending, dive buddy) for staff diving activities as needed.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Current AAUS Scientific Diver certification (required) with demonstrated experience in cold-water scientific diving
• Bachelor’s degree in marine science, biology, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)
• Minimum one year of direct marine fieldwork experience, including diving and/or vessel-based operations
• Demonstrated ability to work safely and effectively in challenging ocean conditions
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple field and data workflows

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with ROV operations, maintenance, and field deployment
• Familiarity with Oregon coast species, habitats, and survey methods
• Experience with data analysis tools (R, Python, or similar)
• Small vessel experience and/or relevant certifications
• Experience working within AAUS dive programs or similar scientific diving frameworks

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 all participants.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Extended travel and field days based on tides, weather windows, and project demands. Frequent fieldwork in cold-water, high-energy marine environments. Regular scientific diving and vessel operations in variable weather and sea conditions. The ability to lift, carry, and deploy field equipment up to 75 lbs is required. Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

Disclaimer: This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. 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.

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

This full time, seasonal position from May 2026 to September 2026.

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 DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Volunteer Engagement Assistant (Seasonal)

REPORTS TO: Volunteer Engagement Manager

STATUS: This seasonal, hourly, non-benefitted position is considered non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

HOURS OF WORK: 40 hours/week between May 22 – September 8, 2026

JOB SUMMARY: The Volunteer Engagement Assistant works in conjunction with the Volunteer Engagement Team to support the volunteer program, including supervising Adult & Youth Interpreters, interpreting at the Touch Pool and Aviary when needed, interfacing with animal care staff, and completing administrative duties as necessary.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provides interpretation, animal handling, crowd management, and safety oversight at the Touch Pool; Handles touch pool animals using techniques developed by and under the direction of the Curators of Fishes/Invertebrates.
2. Provides interpretation and safety oversight of the Sea Bird Aviary and Touch Pool. Communicates any safety or animal concerns to the Curator of Birds or Fish & Invertebrates and/or Operations staff.
3. Coordinates exhibition rotations with adult and/or youth volunteers on shift (including carts, aviary, touch pool, and other interpretive stations).
4. 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.
5. Provides excellent customer service; interacts with guests 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 Volunteer Engagement Manager, and in partnership with the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator and Lead Volunteers, conducts and oversees daily pre-shift enrichment for volunteer shifts to provide direct staff presence, make announcements, provide information, and answer questions.
7. Makes routine walk-arounds to observe and coach adult and youth volunteer interpreters for information accuracy and interpretive techniques. Provides constructive feedback as necessary.
8. Checks email and phone messages daily to respond to adult and youth interpretation volunteer schedule changes.
9. Works with the Volunteer Engagement Manager and Volunteer Engagement Coordinator to make sure that updates regarding the animal collection, plant collection, and staff are conveyed promptly to the volunteers.
10. As needed and necessary, responds to volunteer requests for information and support.
11. Assists with special projects as requested and assigned by the Volunteer Engagement Manager.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

Under the direction of the Volunteer Engagement Manager, the liaison for the Lead Volunteers, Adult and Youth Interpreters.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Related college degree and background in natural science preferred.  Incumbent must be highly organized and detail-oriented, proficient in the use of a personal computer and standard programming such as Word.

Strong writing and verbal skills are essential.  Strong interpersonal and telephone skills are also crucial. Ability to work under limited supervision, both independently and in a team environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves considerable standing and walking throughout the day, up to 8 miles. The ability to ascend and descend ladders/steps is required.  The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds is required.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work requires continuous mental and visual attention, including reading, analyzing, visualizing, or otherwise performing highly involved, comprehensive tasks. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.