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Education and Diving Assistant
Central Caribbean Marine Institute
Full-time, Contractor
Cayman Islands
Posted on Aug 22, 2025
LOCATION: Little Cayman, Cayman Islands START DATE: 1st November 2025 TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 1-year, renewable **CONTRACT TYPE: **Full-time (45 hours/week) REPORTS TO: Head of Marine Science Education CLOSING DATE: 31 August 2025
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About the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI)
CCMI runs a marine research and education facility on the remote tropical island of Little Cayman. CCMI maintains a busy education programme, reliant upon flexible, passionate, and capable professionals who are committed to delivering an immersive residential experience for CCMI’s student stakeholders, from K–12 through to tertiary level. CCMI’s programmes aim to strengthen ocean literacy and stewardship in the Cayman Islands, promote minority representation in science, and train and guide a local workforce that values healthy oceans.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dynamic, passionate Education and Diving Assistant to help deliver CCMI’s year-round marine education programmes while also supporting the CCMI’s diving and snorkel operations. This is a multifaceted role that is ideal for a qualified diving instructor with a strong background in marine science education and a strong commitment to marine conservation and education.
You will help coordinate and deliver high-quality field-based programmes for students ranging from primary to tertiary levels. You’ll also ensure diving and snorkelling activities meet CCMI’s safety standards and educational goals. This role requires flexibility, excellent organizational skills, leadership ability, and a proactive, team-oriented mindset.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Dive and Snorkel Operations
- Plan and prepare all educational dive/snorkel activities in close coordination with the Dive Safety Officer (DSO), ensuring all plans are reviewed and approved. Strong communication and planning skills are essential.
- Serve as lead dive/snorkel professional during all education programmes
- Ensure all dive activities are compliant with safety regulations and institutional protocols
- Support the teaching of recreational dive and snorkel courses, as needed
- Deliver First Aid and Oxygen Administration courses
- Assist in teaching AAUS courses alongside the DSO
- Report and track information to the DSO and Dive Control Board, including but not limited to dive plans, dive personnel information, and incident reports
- Maintain dive-related equipment
- Education Programme Support and Delivery
CCMI runs an all-year-round education programme, from 2-night residential programmes for primary school students to immersive research courses for college students and citizen scientists. You should be an organised, passionate educator, who has the patience and motivation to create a more sustainable future for our marine environment by delivering programmes of excellence. The education assistant aspects of this role include:
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Assist in the delivery of CCMI’s residential education programmes, including:Leading field trips (on land and in-water) Delivering lectures and educational modules Preparing course schedules and materials Coordinating student enrolment logistics and waiver collection Administering pre- and post-programme evaluation surveys Communicate effectively with teachers, parents, and students Provide ancillary support to visiting university-level programmes/courses, including assistance with planning, logistics, and execution
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Support the execution of the Reefs Go Live programme, including the establishment of a teacher network (local and regional) and the creation of educational materials
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Assist in training and supervising seasonal education interns
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Coordinate with operations staff regarding student needs (e.g., food allergies, room assignments, and other logistical support)
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Prepare reports related to K–12 programmes for grants, annual reports, and partners & sponsor communications
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Participate in local outreach events and represent CCMI at community engagements
SKILLS AND Requirements
We are seeking someone enthusiastic, adaptable, and committed to experiential education in a remote island setting. A desire and commitment to help grow our education programmes, deliver them to the highest standards, and foster a culture of fun and immersive learning are essential.
Required:
- Certified dive instructor with at least six (6) months of experience
- Degree in marine science, marine environmental education, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
- Experience in teaching and leading students’ groups in dynamic, hands-on environments
- Excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills
- Ability to thrive in a remote location with limited resources and a small team
- Willingness to work odd hours when required to deliver a programme (time in lieu will be offered)
- Clean driver’s license and ability to drive both manual and automatic vehicles (or willingness to learn manual if necessary)
- Be over 22 years of age
- A clear passion for the ocean and marine conservation education
- Strong ability to manage administrative responsibilities efficiently and on time
- Willingness to take on additional responsibilities related to delivery of the education programmes
Preferred:
- Experience with AAUS scientific diving standards
- Supervisory or mentoring experience
- Prior experience living and working in a remote environment/island
Term and Remuneration
- Salary: USD $25k-$35k per annum (depending on experience)
- 20 days holiday per annum
- Health and pension benefits per the Cayman Islands Labour Law
- Up to USD $800 towards a return flight will be considered
Application Instructions
To apply, please submit the following items:
- a cover letter
- CV
- copies of relevant university and dive certifications
Email all application materials to jobs@reefresearch.org by 5 pm Sunday, 31st August 2025.
We thank all applicants for their interest; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Central Caribbean Marine Institute is an equal opportunity employer.