Marine Science Instructor

Website: https://www.oneillseaodyssey.org/

Location: Santa Cruz, CA (in-person)

Compensation: $21-$22/hour. Starting rate will vary based on Spanish language fluency.

Status: Part-time, seasonal 

Reports to: Skipper and Program Manager

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Summary: O’Neill Sea Odyssey (OSO) is hiring Marine Science Instructors with excellent outdoor teaching skills, a strong background in experiential education, and a passion for connecting multilingual learners and underserved youth to the ocean. We are looking for flexible team players who excel in building strong connections with students, demonstrate patience, possess strong interpersonal skills, and prioritize adherence to safety protocols.

About O’Neill Sea Odyssey: OSO is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization located in the Santa Cruz Harbor. Our mission is to provide a hands-on educational experience to encourage the protection and preservation of our living sea and communities. We teach marine science and ocean stewardship concepts to underserved 4th through 6th-grade and special education students both on the water and in the classroom. Our program is free of charge, and each class completes a Student Action Project to contribute to the health of their local watershed. For many students, this is their first experience being on the ocean. 

At OSO, we value a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all employees and volunteers—regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability—feels valued and respected. We honor and appreciate diverse life experiences and backgrounds, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Program Delivery: Teach three stations (marine biology, marine ecology, and navigation) at sea and on land using OSO’s curriculum. Facilitate pre and post-student and teacher/group leader surveys. Enter data and facilitate basic setup and cleanup of teaching materials. Work a 7-hour day with two consecutive classes of students.
• Adhere to Safety Protocols: Ensure the safety of students, chaperones, and staff by adhering to OSO’s safety protocols. Follow safety directives communicated by the Skipper, Program Manager, and Senior Deckhand.
• Outreach: Participate in tabling events, engage the public in interactive conservation activities, answer general questions, and provide feedback to the Program Manager.
• Volunteer Engagement: Support volunteers in their chaperone duties, answer questions, and provide additional direction.
• Participate in Training and Development: Participate in staff enrichment activities and incorporate best practices into day-to-day instruction. Stay informed on the latest science and research with respect to marine science and environmental education.
• Punctual and Dependable: Report for work on time, provide advance notice of the need for absence, and manage time and the program schedule effectively.
• Flexible Team Player: Respectful of colleagues and make valuable contributions to help the team learn and grow together. Identifies problems and solutions; thrives on new challenges and adjusts to unexpected changes.

Qualifications:

• Spanish fluency preferred
• Experience working with diverse learning audiences
• Background in outdoor education or similar (e.g., camp counselor, teacher)
• Sailing/boating experience
• Degree in a relevant field OR similar experience
• Ability to follow safety protocols and adapt teaching to student needs
• Pass background check, drug test (including cannabis), TB test, and COVID-19 vaccination
• Ability to lift 60 lbs., stand for 3-hour periods, and work in diverse weather conditions