Coral Nursery Manager, Staff Biologist

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Islamorada, FL, USA · Key Largo, FL, USA
Posted 6+ months ago

Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote Marine Laboratory participates in E-Verify.

Current open positions:

Content Coordinator

Job Description:

This full-time, entry-level position is responsible for writing, editing, fact checking and strategic use of content to support community relations and communications activities for all Mote divisions and programs. Focusing on Mote’s website, Aquarium exhibit content and outreach publications, this position enhances Mote’s reputation, integrity and partnerships, supporting the institutional goals of: 1) promoting Mote as a world-class marine research institution, 2) generating attendance for Mote Aquarium, Education programs and events, and 3) supporting fundraising efforts.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Write content about all aspects of Mote’s mission for a variety of external and internal communications platforms, including Mote’s public website (mote.org), exhibits in Mote Aquarium, the biannual Mote Magazine, Mote’s annual report, paid content marketing pieces, handouts, fundraising appeals, an internal digital asset management system and more.
  • Translate complex scientific material into a format digestible by non-expert audiences of all ages.
  • Edit and fact check content generated by others. Review for grammar, apply Mote style and branding guidelines, and above all, ensure accuracy and the use of expert sources.
  • Creatively distill and adapt content to suit audience needs, considering accessibility, age-appropriateness, attention span, UX/UI guidelines, and other variables. This includes working closely with the design team on visual presentation of content.
  • Carry out day-to-day content maintenance on the mote.org website, including coordinating incoming website requests, generating new content, updating, and monitoring to detect where updates and improvements are needed.
  • Coordinate with other members of Mote’s Community Relations & Communications (CRC) team and its contracting website agency to plan and help implement upgrades to our website’s content strategy, user experience, structure and functionality.
  • Other duties as needed to support the other CRC staff.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • A four-year college degree in communications, journalism, digital media or a related field, or equivalent work experience in a similar environment
  • Demonstrated interest in marine science, life sciences, or related field(s)
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities & tasks
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to simplify complex topics for a general audience
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment and work in partnership with staff focused on publications, design, public relations, exhibit planning, social media and marketing
  • Familiarity with common word-processing, spreadsheet and presentation software (e.g. Microsoft Office, Google Docs/Slides/Sheets) with the ability to adapt to our use of project management and productivity software (ClickUp, Asana, Airtable, etc.).

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Writing/editorial experience for journalistic, promotional or fundraising purposes
  • Experience using website content management systems—particularly WordPress—and associated analytics tools
  • Bilingual
  • Familiarity with design tools including Canva and Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Experience writing in Associated Press Style

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Content Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 21, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA) Education Coordinator

Mote’s Education Department develops and delivers high quality education programs using best practices and technology to reach diverse and global audiences. We inspire active involvement in environmental stewardship, foster learning in future generations, and continue to seek out opportunities to improve and expand our programs and ourselves.

The Mote SEA Education Coordinator is responsible for establishing and maintaining collaborations with school, community and other educational partners in preparation for the opening and operations of Mote SEA; collecting and analyzing data related to the needs of local teachers and students to best serve them through Mote SEA; overseeing the development and initial evaluation of school programs for Mote SEA; and providing leadership within the Education Department and Mote Marine Laboratory.

Primary Duties Include:

  • Coordinate with local teachers, administrators, and district representatives to:

- Conduct a needs assessment of how Mote SEA can support the existing regional educational efforts

- Lead the development and testing of K-12 educational curriculum to be used in Mote SEA based on the findings from the needs assessment

- Develop and maintain a database of educator contact information

  • Work closely with Mote SEA Campaign Director and Development Department to represent Mote at events with potential donors and otherwise help articulate the education vision for Mote SEA
  • Assist in the development of registration processes, pre-field trip and supplementary materials for school groups visiting Mote SEA
  • Work with other members of the Education team to integrate Mote SEA school offerings with existing and new educational programs
  • Developing marketing materials to promote existing and upcoming education programs
  • Departmental Support: attend and/or lead departmental meetings; assist with coordination of staff development programs; assist with funding opportunities/grants; provide general support to other departmental staff and AVP as needed

The Education Coordinator works closely with other staff within the Education, Aquarium and Outreach Division and colleagues in the Research and Support Divisions to plan for the future and to create mission-based programs that are aligned with Mote Marine Laboratory’s Beyond 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan.

Knowledge, Skills, and other Characteristics

The Education Coordinator position requires strong organizational and project management skills, strong science content knowledge, particularly marine science, and a strong interest in promoting educational equity. Our ideal candidate is honest, caring, and professional with a tireless work ethic and a contagious, positive energy. They are a giving team member, a creative problem solver, and an enthusiastic collaborator and networker who believes deeply in Mote and its mission. This candidate will possess outstanding communication skills, poise, and confidence, skilled in written and oral communication with the ability to represent Mote Marine Laboratory to a variety of audiences. This candidate should have proven ability to create, implement and evaluate standards-based curriculum and educational programs, and possess skills in effective collaboration. They should have a strong commitment to creating exceptional and impactful experiences for participants, sound judgment, an understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the local community, and the determination to work towards the program and Lab goals. We expect the highest ethical standards, personal integrity, intelligence, good humor, resilience, energy, and spirit.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in education, science or related field
  • Science content expertise
  • Demonstrated excellence in curriculum development and delivery
  • Experience in project management and program coordination; staff and/or volunteer management experience preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team
  • Ability to communicate successfully across a wide range of audiences, including participants, internal and external program stakeholders, teachers, administrators and other outside organizations
  • Ability to translate and transfer Mote Marine Laboratory research through educational programs
  • Familiarity with schools and school districts in Sarasota, Manatee and surrounding areas
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, responsibilities and deadlines simultaneously
  • Flexibility to travel locally and work evenings and weekends as needed
  • Highly developed computer skills (i.e. Microsoft 365, Google Workspace) including proficiency with presentation software and spreadsheets
  • U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen's U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
  • Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record and at least 5 years of driving experience.

Hiring Conditions

The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check within two weeks of hiring.

To Apply

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Mote SEA Education Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 28, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Exhibits Fabricator

The Exhibits Fabricator is responsible for fabricating and maintaining guest-facing exhibit components at Mote Aquarium’s Sarasota and offsite campuses. The Exhibits Fabricator should have experience in one or more of the following areas (woodworking, cabinetry, fiberglassing, moldmaking, sign installation, mechanical or electrical design, exhibit design, or other related fields). All work performed by the Exhibits Fabricator will demonstrate a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. The Exhibits Fabricator models workplace safety at all times, complying with Mote policies and industry best practices. The Exhibits Fabricator often works on multiple projects concurrently and is responsible for documenting and communicating progress towards goals effectively with stakeholders in multiple departments. The Exhibits Fabricator works as part of the exhibits team to create cost estimates, supply lists, and construction specifications for exhibit fabrication and maintenance.

General Duties:

  • Coordinates exhibit maintenance and repair projects.
  • Makes immediate/emergency repairs within their abilities or makes sure area is safe for Mote guests and staff before reporting issue promptly to maintenance team and supervisor.
  • Works closely and communicates effectively with staff from multiple departments on the fabrication of new aquarium exhibit components.
  • Constructs and installs exhibit structures and other elements using a wide range of materials, often including but not limited to wood, FRP, fiberglass, acrylic, epoxy, PVC, paint, etc.
  • Proficient working safely with power tools and workshop equipment.
  • Maintains organized storage of stock materials, consumable items, equipment, displays and exhibit materials.
  • Maintains the equipment and tools used (power tools, hand tools, etc).
  • Prioritizes a clean, organized, and safe work environment and observes safety and risk management procedures in public areas and workspaces.
  • Records work completed and in progress on the exhibits project task list database.

Working Hours:
Normal hours are 7:30am to 4:30pm Sunday-Thursday with a one hour unpaid break for lunch. A normal work week is 40 hours. Weekend, holiday and occasional evening duty will be required. Mote Aquarium is open to the public 365 days a year from 9:30am-5pm. Travel will occasionally be required for offsite exhibit installation and maintenance.

Minimum Requirements:

  • First Aid and CPR certified or the ability to attain within 3 months of hire date
  • Florida Drivers License or the ability to obtain one within 1 month of hire date

Experience:
Experience in fabrication, maintenance, woodworking, or other related field. Technical knowledge is often acquired through a bachelors or trade school degree or equivalent experience. Public attraction experience is preferred but not required.

Skills:

  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, and ability to prioritize projects.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficient with the use and maintenance of a variety of hand and power tools
  • Capable of working safely with solvents, paints, epoxy and resins

Physical:

  • Ability to work outside in all Florida weather conditions
  • Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, bending and lifting.
  • Capable of climbing and working from ladders most days
  • Tolerance to work around noisy machinery & equipment
  • Tolerance for the smell of fish and animal feces
  • Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs occasionally
  • Ability to lift 25lbs overhead occasionally
  • Capable of working around bleach and other sanitizing chemicals
  • Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Exhibits Fabricator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 28, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Event Venue Coordinator

Description: Primary responsibility is the proactive booking and service of venue rental clients. The Event Venue Coordinator provides outstanding service to venue rental clients and guests through the entire event process, including initial pitches, coordination throughout the event, and successful follow-up. The Event Venue Coordinator will work closely with the Events team to assist as needed in planning and execution of all Mote hosted events, meetings, symposiums, etc.

Responsibilities:

Venue Rentals

  • Respond to all online and telephone inquiries for venue rentals
  • Manage venue rental promotional platforms (WeddingPro, Mote webpage for Venue Rentals, etc.)
  • Conduct site visits for potential clients
  • Create contracts and invoices for venue rentals
  • Oversee billing and tracking of all payments/service fees
  • Oversee coordination of all aspects of venue rentals
  • Communicate details with internal teams
  • Communicate details with vendors and external partners
  • Assist in marketing, promotion, and public relations related to venue rentals
  • Responsible for the growth and cultivation of hospitality book of business
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with partners/vendors – caterers, hotels, event planners, etc.
  • Oversee execution of venue rentals, typically taking place after business hours and/or on weekends
  • Oversee vendor load in
  • Communicate with the catering team lead and/or day of event wedding coordinator
  • Complete venue preparation tasks
  • Oversee events volunteers (if applicable)
  • Monitor cleanup after events have taken place making sure all Mote rules have been followed
  • Conduct follow up to request reviews and venue photos

Internal Mote Events

  • Assist the Events team as needed in planning and execution of Mote fundraising events, donor receptions and symposiums in support of the Development department
  • Event examples given: Special Lecture Series, Farm to Fillet, Legacy Brunch, Party on the Pass, Run for the Turtles, SEAsonal Tasting, Oceanic Evening, Guardians of the Sea, Icon Events, Evening on the Bay, etc.
  • Assist the Events team in planning and execution of Mote Aquarium & Member events
  • Event examples given: Sharktoberfest, Special Exhibit Openings, Member Appreciation events, Film Festival etc.
  • Assist the Events team in planning and execution of Mote's legislative session events in Tallahassee (travel required.)

Additional Responsibilities

  • Put safety of guests, employees, interns and volunteers as a top priority
  • Assist in developing annual budgets
  • Exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters of significance
  • Communicate accurately, effectively, and regularly with members of other departments (Communications, Education, Development, Facilities, Finance, etc.)
  • Ensure continued compliance of related plans, policies, procedures, laws and standards
  • Local, state, and federal laws
  • Music licensing
  • AZA standards
  • Safety drills – fire, lost child, animal escape, etc.
  • Disaster preparedness – hurricane, pandemic, etc.

Working Hours: Regular office hours Tuesday through Saturday with the understanding that flexibility is required to provide coverage for events after hours (some late into the evening) and weekends. Due to the nature of this position weekend, holiday and evening or early morning duty will often be required.

Minimum Requirements: First Aid and CPR certified or willing to attain within 3 months of hire date

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred

Experience: Customer service, hospitality and sales experience strongly preferred. Computer literate, able to work accurately and efficiently with clients and vendors. Detail oriented with event planning experience. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, particularly in relationships with clients, volunteers, donors, staff and aquarium visitors. Ability to manage multiple projects independently. Must be able to create layouts, place rental orders, and manage events from start to finish. Ability to self-start is required.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Venue Rental Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm August 18, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Coral Nursery Manager, Staff Biologist

This position is located at Mote's Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration (IC2R3), Summerland Key, Florida

Primary Function: This position is primarily to support Mote’s coral reef restoration activities in Summerland Key, including supervising a team of staff members, conducting coral husbandry duties associated with Mote’s land based coral nursery and in situ coral nursery, outplanting of corals to offshore restoration sites, collaborating and liaising with local partners, field monitoring, construction and maintenance of equipment associated with those tasks, data entry/management/analysis, ensure that funded project and programmatic deliverables are met in a timely manner, assist in leading coral restoration research objectives, report writing, assist in the preparation of grant proposals, and assist with the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Primary Duties:

  • Maintain close and consistent communication with Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration Program Manager and other nursery managers
  • Oversee staff (Technicians and Biologists) and all operations associated with Mote’s Coral Restoration Nursery at IC2R3 and ensure staff are tasked appropriately each day
  • Conduct extensive coral nursery husbandry
  • Oversee outplanting activities and conduct coral outplanting monitoring for any land-based or hybrid nursery coral restoration
  • Oversee any land-based/hybrid nursery operations including data acquisition and curation
  • Provide support services to visiting researchers and internal Mote staff as needed
  • Field work involving SCUBA diving, underwater data collection, and maintenance of underwater research structures.
  • Construction of coral nursery structures and maintaining gear and equipment
  • Outreach and Education duties as needed associated with Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration Program
  • Assist in leading coral reef restoration research projects as needed
  • Represent Mote’s Coral Reef Restoration Program on working groups and provide presentations as requested

Additional duties will include assisting with various tasks related to the daily operation of a full-service marine laboratory, assisting with field and lab support to visiting scientists, fielding internal and external coral requests, maintaining proper communication with the Coral Reef Restoration Program manager and veterinarian, and assisting with outreach and education activities as needed.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements:

  • B.S. degree in the marine, biological, or ecological sciences or a related field from an accredited college or university
  • Minimum SCUBA certification of Rescue Diver (Dive Master, or higher, preferred).
  • Meet and maintain AAUS Scientific Diver standards, including medical requirements.
  • Prior experience operating vessels up to 30ft (USCG Captain’s License preferred)
  • Valid license to drive in the State of Florida.
  • Ability to be an adaptable and collegial member of the team, self-motivated, and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.
  • Ability to work productively and proactively with minimal direct supervision.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Extensive previous research diving experience (>1,000 dives) preferred.
  • Expert knowledge of the corals found on Florida’s Coral Reef.
  • Participate in heavy physical exertion while swimming or diving or hauling gear required
  • Lift heavy objects or equipment up to 70 lbs occasionally.
  • Working knowledge of computer software (Windows, Word, Excel) for entering data required.
  • Working knowledge and familiarity with statistical software packages and data analysis strongly preferred.
  • Work evenings and weekends will be required at times.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Coral Nursery Manager” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm August 7, 2023.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.