Marine Science Educator / Resident Supervisor

POSITION OVERVIEW: We are seeking a dynamic Marine Science Educator / Resident Supervisor to join our staff. Our team educates about 25,000 students, summer campers, and members of the public each year. This part-time position combines marine science education responsibilities with a residential staff assignment that requires on-site presence to support the safety, security, and efficient operation of overnight programs. 

ABOUT US: Project Oceanology is a non-profit marine science education and research facility. Since 1972, our mission has been to nurture interest and inspire enthusiasm for science and for our planet’s marine environment from our waterfront facility in Groton, Connecticut. Project Oceanology is a year-round, marine science educational organization governed by local school districts and in collaboration with universities and other educational institutions. Our vision is to be a center of excellence for inquiry and place-based science and marine education, serving the evolving needs of our global community. 

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Marine Science Educator / Resident Supervisor delivers engaging marine science and environmental education programs aboard vessels and at land-based locations for students from elementary through high school, college groups, summer campers, and the general public. As a Marine Science Educator, this position supports the growth of Project Oceanology’s programs by helping expand offerings, integrating Project Oceanology activities into local school curricula during the academic year, and serving as an essential member of our summer camp staff from June through August. This role includes a residential staff assignment. Housing is provided as part of the overall compensation package in exchange for fulfilling Resident Supervisor responsibilities during overnight programs. When overnight programs are in session (based on academic-year reservations and consecutive summer camp weeks), the employee resides on-site in the Resident Supervisor apartment to oversee building security, respond to emergencies, and support operational needs during overnight stays. This position is based at Project Oceanology in Groton, Connecticut; the employee must be available to work at other sites in Connecticut as needed. The employee must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends. Regular attendance is a requirement of this position. The Marine Science Educator / Resident Supervisor reports directly to the Director of Curriculum and Instruction and works collaboratively with the education team and other staff to support the organization’s programs and mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Marine Science Educator Responsibilities 

● Presents material involving oceanographic content and research techniques; teaches lessons; relates marine science topics to people having a wide range of interests, ages, and educational backgrounds 

● Teaches marine science programs aboard research vessels, on shoreline programs, in marine laboratories, and in classrooms. 

● Teaches after-school programs multiple days per week, including curriculum design, planning, setup, and breakdown 

● Coordinates with other Project Oceanology staff to customize lessons and engages participants during teaching and transition times 

● Supports aquaria through feeding and maintenance in seawater lab 

● Provides a safe, supportive and friendly environment for all participants 

● Will serve as one of the alternate camp directors throughout the summer camp season, supporting camp operations 

Resident Supervisor Responsibilities 

● Resides in the Resident Supervisor apartment to carry out the responsibilities outlined for overnight groups during the academic year and summer campers during camp season. 

● Greets overnight groups during check-in and provides facility orientation as needed 

● Maintains an on-site presence to support building security and respond to facility issues, emergencies, or guest needs 

● Provides general information and support to visiting groups regarding facilities, policies, and schedules 

● Implements organizational policies and procedures consistent with current Connecticut regulations governing youth camps during camp programs 

General Responsibilities 

● Performs related duties and responsibilities as required 

● Establishes and maintains effective and courteous working relationships with school officials, members of the public, students, campers, and coworkers

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE: 

Education, Experience and Training 

● Bachelor’s degree in marine science, environmental science, biology, education, or a related field preferred 

● Residential supervision experience is preferred 

● Experience working with children/adolescents is required 

License or Certificate 

● Must have CPR, First Aid, and Medical Administration certificates or obtain during training held at Project Oceanology 

● Lifeguard certification preferred 

● Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) certification preferred 

Other Requirements 

● State of Connecticut Health form and consent to pre-employment drug test and criminal history check are required 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

● Knowledge of Marine Science and broad interest in oceans, including coastal ecosystems, fisheries resources, human interaction and management issues 

● Aptitude for educating others. Knowledge of effective class/group management principles and ability to supervise students, delegate and share responsibilities 

● Ability to educate others and to work with persons of varying ages and from diverse backgrounds; ability to work as a team member and leader; ability to be engaging, patient, energetic and enthusiastic with students and public 

● Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure, particularly during emergencies or high-activity program periods 

● Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective and courteous working relationships with students, members of the public, coworkers, partners, and visiting groups 

● Strong organizational skills including the ability to prioritize work, manage multiple tasks with interruptions, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail and accuracy 

● Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays. 

● Ability to move throughout the facility and aboard vessels, including ascending and descending stairs, conduct rounds as needed, lead safe and orderly evacuations in emergency situations, and maintain the physical stamina required for extended work outdoors and in varying weather conditions. 

WHAT WE OFFER: 

● Hourly pay, $17.50 - $18.50 per hour based on experience. 

● Part-time position. Hours fluctuate based upon seasonal demand. 

● Waterfront apartment includes utilities, internet and a designated Resident Supervisor parking space close to the building.  

HOW TO APPLY: Send your resume and cover letter to admin@oceanology.org using the subject line “Marine Science Educator / Resident Supervisor”. In your cover letter, please describe why you are interested in this position and any relevant experience working with marine science education, youth programs, or residential programs. Application deadline: April 15, 2026. Project Oceanology is committed to a diverse workplace and to supporting our staff with ongoing career development opportunities. We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate in its employment decisions. We provide reasonable accommodation for applicants and employees as required by law.