Employment

Working at the Oregon Coast Aquarium

Set on the edge of the picturesque Yaquina Bay, the Oregon Coast Aquarium provides a variety of employment opportunities for people of all backgrounds and skill sets. From customer service to educational outreach to animal husbandry, the field of marine conservation is both exciting and essential. We exist to impart the public with knowledge and experiences to value healthy oceans and act responsibly and respectfully toward this end. And we have an unwavering commitment to the best care of the animals we are entrusted to. Every position is important at the Aquarium. Key values for our staff to embrace and be successful are teamwork, open and clear communication with each other, and outstanding customer service for the public that visits us. We encourage creativity and innovation. We welcome you to contact us about employment opportunities!

Employment Benefits

The Aquarium offers competitive pay, an excellent benefits package, and the chance to work in a beautiful natural setting surrounded by dedicated and caring coworkers. The Aquarium offers equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age (where the individual is 18 years or older), marital status, family relationship, disability, veteran, or any other protected status.

How to Apply for a Position

Job positions that are currently open will be listed below. Each position may have slightly different requirements for the applicant, so we encourage you to review the job description carefully before submitting any materials.

All available positions are below. All applicants should email a resume and cover letter to [email protected] to apply. Salary information available upon request.

Job Opportunities

Admissions Associate - Seasonal

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: [email protected]

The hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. This position is open until it is filled.

This is a full time, seasonal position from May 2025 to September 2025

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: 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, and other related products and experiences while ensuring seamless experience for all guests. 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, and proactively contributing to business growth and guest satisfaction.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES 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.

KNOWLEDGES, 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.

Educator/Ambassador Animal Assistant - Seasonal

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: [email protected]

POSITION TITLE: Seasonal Educator/Ambassador Animal Assistant

REPORTS TO: Education Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Seasonal Educator/Ambassador Animal Assistant delivers public programs and presentations in support of the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s mission. They also provide basic husbandry for the Aquarium’s ambassador animal program.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Under the direction of the Education 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 those with special needs as required and/or works closely with any attendants.
  5. Under the direction of the Education Manager and in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads or co-leads public presentations during scheduled animal feeding and training sessions. (ex. Pelicans)
  6. Facilitates value-added programming for guests.
  7. Under the direction of the Education Manager and utilizing approved policies and procedures, provides care, observation, and maintenance of all ambassador animals, including feeding, preparing food, cleaning, and general upkeep of habitats.
  8. Maintains daily reports, logs, and other animal care records according to established guidelines and using OCAq directed tools and methods. Records and reports any abnormal animal health or behavioral issues to the Education Manager or Ambassador Animal Care Specialist.
  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 Education Manager and Education Specialists with data entry, survey dissemination and materials preparation for programs, events and trainings.
  12. Attends professional departmental meetings as scheduled.
  13. Proactively seeks to maximize impact through collaboration with Education Manager on program efficiencies and supporting others where logical.

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.
  • Experience caring for animals at an AZA facility, wildlife rehab center, nature center, conservation center, or similar is required.
  • Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills that allows 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.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Experience facilitating programs utilizing interpretive plans

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • The work involves remaining stationary and completing extensive computer based work
  • Must move self, animals and tools across uneven surfaces and narrow space in various weather conditions
  • The work includes moving equipment up to 50 pounds.

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.
  • Work involves working with computers for extended periods of time

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Some programs and tasks are conducted outside, and staff is exposed to various weather conditions for prolonged periods of time
  • Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.
  • Must be able to work holidays, weekends, and occasional evenings
Educator - Seasonal

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: [email protected]

POSITION TITLE: Seasonal Educator

REPORTS TO: Education Manager

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

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Under the direction of the Education 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 those with special needs as required and/or works closely with any attendants.
  5. Under the direction of the Education Manager and in collaboration with the Animal Care Department, leads or co-leads public presentations during scheduled animal feeding and training sessions. (ex. Pelicans)
  6. Facilitates value-added programming for guests.
  7. 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.
  8. Responds to public inquiries about education programs, the Oregon Coast Aquarium or general animal and conservation information.
  9. Assists Education Manager and Education Specialists with data entry, survey dissemination and materials preparation for programs, events and trainings.
  10. 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. 
  • Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills that allows 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.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Experience facilitating programs utilizing interpretive plans
  • Experience working with and caring for animals
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • The work involves remaining stationary and completing extensive computer based work
  • Must move self, animals and tools across uneven surfaces and narrow space in various weather conditions
  • The work includes moving equipment up to 50 pounds.
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.
  • Work involves working with computers for extended periods of time

.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Some programs and tasks are conducted outside, and staff is exposed to various weather conditions for prolonged periods of time
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.
  • Must be able to work holidays, weekends, and occasional evenings
Information Technology Manager 

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: [email protected] 

Candidate screening will begin April 6th, and the hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. This position is open until filled.  

This full time, permanent position offers competitive benefits including fully covered medical, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance. The Aquarium additionally offers a 403b matching retirement account, 16 vacation days, 9 holidays, paid sick time, and an Employee Assistance Program.  

This position is 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: Information Technology Manager 

REPORTS TO: Director of Finance  

POSITION SUMMARY: This position oversees all aspects of the Aquarium’s technology infrastructure, ensuring seamless operations that align with organizational goals. This role is responsible for developing and implementing IT strategies that drive innovation, enhance system performance, and support a culture of continuous improvement. The IT Manager leads a team of IT professionals, providing mentorship, training, and development opportunities to foster technical expertise and professional growth. Additionally, this position ensures the security, efficiency, and reliability of IT systems and infrastructure, playing a critical role in maintaining and advancing the Aquarium’s technological capabilities 

              

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS  
  1. Provides support and services to maintain the optimum operations of all Aquarium networks, servers, computers, phones, printers, electronics, media systems. Oversees the management and maintenance of IT systems and infrastructure.  
  2. Assists all staff in the operation of Aquarium technology, by providing both onsite and remote support. Develops and implements training for staff. 
  3. Identifies, develops, customizes, and maintains software for all departments of the Aquarium. 
  4. Demonstrates flexibility in response to changes in Aquarium technological needs, and stays up to date on IT best practices through regular professional development.  
  5. Provides setup, training and assistance for all audio and video equipment utilized at the Aquarium. Ensures an IT staff is available for troubleshooting special events and meetings. 
  6. Maintains a long-term IT roadmap and leads implementation processes for the organizations’ IT systems and department. Facilitates information sharing and coordinates joint initiatives.  
  7. Recruits, trains, mentors, and motivates IT staff. Conducts performance evaluations and regularly provides timely, constructive feedback.  
  8. Identifies technology needs and makes recommendations for improvement of IT infrastructure. Oversees procurement of IT hardware, software, and services.   
  9. Manages the IT department budget and ensures cost-effective allocation of resources. Develops and maintains relationships with external IT vendors and support service providers.  
  10. Oversees security of systems, networks, and enterprise information. Monitors and responds to security threats and incidents. Ensures cybersecurity measures are in place to protect sensitive information. Facilitates IT security audits or investigations. 
  11. Develops and implements business continuity protocols to minimize disruptions in the event of emergency situations or data loss. 
  12. Evaluate the company’s adherence to federal technology requirements for security. Ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards.  
  13. 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: 

This position supervises all IT technicians, systems administrators, and analysts.  

 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
  • A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, educational technology, or related field is required. Minimum five years of IT management experience leading teams is required, with a proven ability to lead, motivate, develop, and manage a team of IT professionals.  
  • Ability to independently problem-solve, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, provide self-direction, and delegate IT team responsibilities. Previous project management experience with diverse stakeholders required.  
  • Demonstrated ability to manage and execute organizational advancement by developing change management strategies, identifying potential threats and resistance, and creating risk mitigation plans. Demonstrated ability to set mission-aligned IT strategies including creating and managing departmental budgets.  
  • Experience establishing and maintaining positive relationships with employees at all levels of an organization through proven communication, interpersonal, and collaborative skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences by being solution-oriented, innovative, and proactive when addressing issues facing the workforce. 
  • Extensive knowledge of modern operating systems, local area networks, servers, databases, software applications, security technology, firewalls, and network design/management is required. 
  • In lieu of the above requirements, the incumbent may possess any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the individual’s knowledge, skill, and ability to perform the essential functions of the job. 

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

The work involves considerable walking and kneeling. The ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds is required. The ability to ascend and descend ladders/steps 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.  

 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station. Travel is required for conference attendance and procuring supplies. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions. 

 

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS: 

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required. 

Intern Opportunities

We do not currently offer internships at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Consider checking above for seasonal work opportunities, or joining our team of volunteers.

Volunteer Opportunities

For information and updates about openings, visit our volunteer page.