Job Opening

Image 1 Credit: Clint Graves. Image 2: Greater Farallones Offices on Crissy Field. Image 3: Aerial of GFNMS.

Marine Science Educator

Desired start date: late February or March

Organizational Background
Greater Farallones Association (GFA) is a nonprofit organization working in close partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to conserve the ecosystems of the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank national marine sanctuaries, a combined protected area of more than 4,581 square miles off the northern and central California coast. The waters within the sanctuaries are part of a nationally significant marine ecosystem. Encompassing a diversity of highly productive marine habitats, the sanctuaries support an abundance of species. GFA has an annual operating budget of approximately $5 million. Our offices are co-located in the National Marine Sanctuary office in a beautiful historic building on Crissy Field in the Presidio, which also houses a staffed Visitor Center with exhibits and aquaria and provides a base for on-site field trips for school classes.

Greater Farallones Association aims to foster inclusivity, justice, and equity within our organization, and in the broader fields of ocean conservation, environmental education, and nonprofit management. All staff members are expected to bring a demonstrated commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable, and effective workplace.

Program Description and Overview
The Marine Science Educator will provide instructional support for education projects, specifically delivering engaging ocean science lessons to our after-school based program, Ocean After School (OAS), which is funded by the Department of Children, Youth, and their Families (DCYF) in San Francisco. The Ocean After School program serves 2nd – 7th grade students in San Francisco with an increased emphasis and focus on working with youth with disabilities.

Reporting to the GFA Education Program Manager, this part-time, seasonal, non-exempt position works 15-20 hours weekly during the school year (generally September through June). The hours vary depending on the programming schedules. There is a possibility of renewal of the role each year, dependent on funding sources. The position works closely with other GFA education staff and federal Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary staff in coordinating program delivery. This position will also work closely with school staff and staff from our partner organizations.

This role will lead lessons in the classroom and provide a safe and supportive learning environment, meet youth teaching standards, and maintain quality curricula. This position may be engaged in outreach related to the OAS program and receive opportunities for professional development provided by DCYF. This position may also assist with planning, coordination, scheduling, and evaluation of programs, working directly with school staff and organizational partners as needed.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

This role offers a set of core responsibilities, which could include the following and allows flexibility tailored to candidate skills and GFA program needs. Specific responsibilities will be discussed collaboratively at hire and throughout the term of the role.

  • Deliver marine science education curriculum (including programs on sharks, marine mammals, seabirds, squid, crabs, salmon, plankton, ocean acidification, deep-sea corals, Remotely Operated Vehicles, sea turtles, and newly developed lessons) both virtual and in the classroom to diverse school audiences in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards.
  • Maintain a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students during lessons, youth teaching standards, and in the workplace where all staff feel they can bring their authentic selves.
  • Assist with on-going evaluation of programs and facilities, communicate this information to all appropriate staff members, and work with other staff to maintain and improve high quality programs.
  • Assist the Program Manager in the administration of programs, including maintaining communication with teachers, site coordinators and partner organizations.
  • Manage program materials and supplies, including proper handling of live marine organisms.
  • Assist in curriculum development and online educational resources, as requested and as needed.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities to improve quality of the curricula and classroom management
  • Other program-specific tasks as assigned

Preferred Qualifications

  • At least 18 years of age. 
  • Minimal experience teaching K-12 students from diverse backgrounds including urban youth and youth with special needs and willingness to continue learning new teaching skills for effective instruction.
  • General knowledge, interest, and willingness to learn about ocean and marine science concepts, including key ocean organisms, coastal ecosystems, and coastal stewardship. 
  • Ability to work as a team member and be an effective communicator.
  • Strong computer and organizational skills to assist with collecting student data, program evaluations, class attendance, and communicating with partners.
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive and healthy workplace that accepts and supports all staff members in bringing their authentic selves to our workplace.
  • Ability to adjust quickly to changing priorities and manage tasks in a sometimes stressful environment. 
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule focused on afternoons during the afterschool period (between the hours of 2-5:30pm).
  • Ability to lift and carry 35 lbs as this position requires transporting education materials.
  • A valid driver license, access to a reliable personal motor vehicle, and proof of auto insurance; ability and flexibility to travel as needed to school sites. 
  • Pass mandatory federal background check and defensive driving course.
  • Be fully vaccinated against COVID as defined by the Centers for Disease Control, and provide proof prior to beginning work (exemptions apply). 
  • Documented negative TB test within the last 3 years.

Employee Status and Benefits

This is a seasonal part-time, non-exempt staff position with Greater Farallones Association, and is officially affiliated with NOAA. The starting pay for the position is $25 – $27 per hour. A commitment of 15-20 hours per week makes the position eligible for holidays, and sick time accruals on a pro-rated basis and may only be used to replace scheduled working hours. This position is at-will and depends on funding and organizational priorities.

Application Instructions

We encourage those interested in marine science to apply, regardless of previous marine science experience. To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, and three references to education@farallones.org. Your cover letter should address your commitment to being an effective educator and demonstrate your enthusiasm for marine science, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applications will be reviewed starting in late January, but GFA will continue accepting submissions until the position is filled.

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