Careers

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

This part-time (24 hours) 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: Ambassador Animal Care Specialist (Part-Time)

REPORTS TO: Learning & Engagement Manager

JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager, the Ambassador Animal Care Specialist is responsible for the care of Mission Engagement Department ambassador animals, including daily diets, maintaining the cleanliness and safety of all animal areas, and implementing outlined training protocols. In addition, the Ambassador Animal Care Specialist presents ambassador animals in public presentations as scheduled.

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. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and Senior Ambassador Animal Care Specialist, utilizes designated protocols to train husbandry and natural behaviors.
4. Participates in ambassador animal public presentations.
5. Records daily observations, training sessions, and diet consumption. Maintains animal care, enrichment, and animal program participation records in TRACKS.
6. Participates in specimen collection and/or transport as needed.
7. Serves as a positive representative of the Oregon Coast Aquarium while interacting with diverse audiences.
8. Participates in training of volunteers, practicum students, or interns on various tasks as necessary and leading by example.
9. Participates on the Aquarium enrichment committee and/or welfare committee as a Mission Engagement Department representative. Contributes as appropriate and acts as a 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 RESPONSIBILITIES

N/A

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Related college degree (Associates) and background in biology, zoology, or a related science is required. Three years’ experience caring for animals is required. Animal training experience and understanding of operant conditioning and animal enrichment is required.

Skills necessary for this position include excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong writing and verbal skills are essential. Knowledge of and ability to use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs is required. The incumbent must be highly detail-oriented and adept at problem solving. 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, monitor eating patterns, and note any changes in behavior.
• Effectively implement operant conditioning training procedures for a variety of animals.
• Communicate effectively with guests and staff.
• Work well under direction and have the capacity to receive feedback from peers and/or manager; seek consultation from coworkers and/or manager.
• Remain stimulated while doing routine tasks.
• 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; move 50 pounds when necessary.

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 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 Full-time, temporary position and 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 (Temporary)

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