Careers

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

Candidate screening will begin June 19th, 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: Assistant Dive Safety Officer

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The Assistant Dive Safety Officer (ADSO) will assist the Dive Safety Officer (DSO) in oversight and management of the Oregon Coast Aquarium dive program, both exhibit and field.  Position duties will focus on field operations in the summer and diver trainings & equipment servicing in the winter.  The applicant must have the aptitude for both technical office work as well as physically demanding fieldwork.  95% of exhibit and field diving ops will take place in cold water, 46—52° F. 

Duties Include:

• Designated Person in Charge for dive operations. Supervise staff and volunteer diver operations. 
• Enforce dive safety policies.
• Prepare and edit written policies, SOPs, the Dive Safety Manual, etc.
• Maintain diver files and paperwork.
• Service all dive equipment (cylinders, valves, regulators, full face masks, BCDs, drysuits & wetsuits, compressor, etc).
• Boat and trailer maintenance & repairs
• Train divers in exhibit diving and field diving techniques & equipment (drysuit, nitrox, DIR gear configuration, boat diving, full face mask, video/photo, DPV, etc).
• Conduct routine Basic Life Support & EO2 trainings
• Conduct dive rescue drills
• Animal husbandry exhibit dives (approx. 1-2 dives per week)
• Field research & animal collections diver (approx. 25 days per year)
• Surface research boat ops, animal collections, and animal tagging of invertebrates, fishes, and large sharks by handline, hook-and-line, long-line, etc.
• Organize fieldwork excursions
• Fill station operator
• Research vessel operation in ocean conditions (approx 30-50 days per year)
• Trailer research vessel on highway
• Overnight field research & animal collection trips (typically 2-3 consecutive days of remote work per trip). 4 or more trips per year. 
• Conduct and supervise paid guest diver events
• Assist with training and supervising the interpretive dive program.
• Assist with training and supervising of dive staff
• Represent the OCAq at symposia, conferences, public speaking events, etc.
• 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.

Required Qualifications & Skills:
Presentation of required certifications, licensures, and skill verification must occur after offer and by first day of employment.

• Open Water Scuba Instructor with internationally recognized training agency (NAUI, PADI, SDI, GUE, etc.).
• Basic Life Support & Emergency Oxygen Provider Instructor, preferably
• AAUS Scientific Diver
• Demonstrated cold-water diving experience (minimum 100 dives in < 65° F water)
• Demonstrated experience working aboard small vessels in ocean conditions

Desired Qualifications & Skills:

• RescueX RescueReady instructor
• Experience operating small boats, preferably in ocean conditions. MOTC credentials or USCG captain’s license preferred. 
• PSI-PCI (or equivalent) SCUBA Cylinder Inspector Technician, Cylinder Valve Inspector Technician, Oxygen-Clean Cylinder Technician
• Regulator Technician (Aqua Lung / Apeks preferably)
• OTS Guardian Full Face Mask Technician
• General skills / experience working with power tools and hand tools
• General skills performing basic vessel maintenance (fiberglass repair, electrical wiring, engine maintenance, etc)
• Public speaking skills
• Computer skills: Microsoft Office, Outlook, photo/video editing software, etc.
• Experience and/or interest in pursuing limited technical diving operations
• Initiative, creativity, efficiency, positivity

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

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: Facilities Technician I

REPORTS TO: Director of Facilities

JOB SUMMARY: A Facilities Technician I is responsible for performing maintenance tasks as assigned to maintain the interior and exterior building structure, fixtures, stationary equipment and furnishings. The role requires strong attention to detail and a foundation in basic maintenance and repair techniques to ensure safe and efficient facility operations.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Maintains and repairs stationary equipment, fixtures and furnishings.
2. Completes morning facility walkthroughs and safety checks on a regular basis.
3. Operates hand and power tools and maintains them in clean, good working order.
4. Follows safety practices and rules on all tasks.
5. Constructs, repairs and maintains building and structural components working with various materials such as concrete, wood, metal, glass and plastic.
6. Helps co-workers when assistance is requested and asks other co-workers for assistance when needed.
7. Determines time and materials required for assigned tasks and keeps simple records of work accomplished.
8. Assists in the construction and breakdown of temporary exhibits as necessary.
9. Attends appropriate trainings and seminars to increase efficiency and knowledge base for job.
10. Participates on Aquarium committees as a Facilities department representative. Contributes as appropriate, and acts as a liaison between the department and committee.
11. Performs special tasks and assists other Aquarium functions in a variety of ways.
12. Climb ladders and carries tools and equipment up or down ladders.
13. Work in inclement weather throughout the day.
14. 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)

Vocational training or certification in a related field is preferred.  Minimum of 1-2 years of maintenance experience in high traffic facilities. Basic carpentry skills required.

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.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves considerable standing and moving about on surfaces that are often wet and slippery.  The ability to ascend and descend steep ladders/steps is required.  The ability to lift and carry up to 60 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.  The incumbent must be able to differentiate the sounds of various motors, compressors, and other machinery.

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 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: Seasonal Food Service Cashier

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 possess a positive attitude and adhere to grooming and dress codes.
• Must be able to stand, bend, kneel, and lift

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

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. 

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

This position runs from mid-June to mid-September, 2025 and is considered non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is immediately hiring and will be accepting applications on a rolling basis.

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: Line Cook (Temporary/Seasonal)

REPORTS TO: Food and Beverage Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Line Cook is responsible for overseeing the cooking operations of the kitchen, under the direction of the Food and Beverage Manager and Kitchen Lead for all kitchen operations.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Ensure that all meals are completed within designated time frames.
2. Ensure there are daily sufficient prepped foods to ensure on-going success of the cafe.
3. Responsible for all food production during the shift.
4. Maintain the correct holding temperatures, the usability and quality of all food throughout each shift. Ensure the quality of food conforms to quality control standards.
5. Check all the stations and make sure they are covered.
6. Check that the walk-ins are kept clean and organized. Make sure there is no spoilage, waste or items missing.
7. Ensure that cleaning processes and procedures are done. Practices sanitation policies. Ensure that equipment is cleaned and sanitized after each use.
8. Carry out operational policies and procedures as established by Cafe Manager.
9. Lead kitchen team members to provide efficient service and clean and hazard-free environment.
10. Keep current on the facility disaster plan and respond appropriately.
11. Conduct training as necessary.
12. Reports for work on time and are prepared for work.
13. Properly dates and rotates all stock and orders product when necessary.
14. Handle customer and associate complaints. Provide courteous service to our guests and is cordial to all team members
15. Maintains open and clear communication with all staff members.
16. Maintain a consistent, regular attendance record.
17. Performs other duties as assigned.
    
    

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a minimum of one year cook experience in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Must know all state and county sanitation procedures and HACCP policies.
• Must possess an active food handlers card at hire
• Demonstrated meal preparation suitable to café setting and high-end catering preparation and presentation.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and to function in a team environment