Education Specialist
Pacific Whale Foundation
Wailuku, Hawaii
| Job Type | Permanent |
| Salary | $58,000 - $63,000 per year |
| Benefits | Comprehensive benefits including PTO, health insurance and 401K for eligible employees |
| Deadline | Oct 02, 2026 |
| Min. Experience | 2 - 4 years |
Role Overview:
The Education Specialist works at the direction of the Education Manager with development, planning and implementation of PWF programs. This position is also responsible for shared duties within the department including program delivery and execution, program material preparation, curriculum development, equipment maintenance, outreach events, reservations, correspondence and data collection.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Plan and implement education programs including Ocean Camp, Ocean Camp: A Deeper Dive, Keiki Whale Watch and other PWF education initiatives
- Assist and support the development and execution of Ocean Career Quest and connected internship program
- Assist in the development of new education programs
- Lead programs and provide support for other programs led by fellow members of the department
- Develop and ensure a safe, fun and positive learning environment for program participants and complete all required training and certifications
- Maintain a professional relationship with program participants, teachers, parents, staff and volunteers
- Collaborate within the Education department and other departments as appropriate
- Develop and maintain program curriculum materials and supplies, including classroom inventory and program vehicles
- Assist with creation of virtual and physical lesson materials and curriculum deliverables
- Support curriculum development in alignment of departmental objectives of Next Generation Science Standard and Hawaiian cultural integration
- Assist in planning and staffing education related to special events and outreach programs
- Complete shared duties within the department (cleaning, data entry, reservations, correspondence with teachers, parents, vendors, community partners, etc.)
- Understand and demonstrate core values and vision statement of PWF
- Aid in the management of education spaces like the Ocean Discovery Center Classrooms and other education materials and resources
- Collect and maintain organization of department data collected via program metric surveys and participant feedback
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Bachelor’s degree in education, Marine or Environmental Science or related field, preferred
- At least 2 years of formal or informal teaching experience with various age groups and abilities; experience as an environmental educator in Hawaii and/or knowledge of Hawaiian culture and natural history preferred
- Experience developing and implementing science and/or environmental education curriculum; familiarity with Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core Standards, and Ocean Literacy Principles preferred
- Solid understanding of appropriate educator conduct and group management
- Experience working in a summer camp environment and/or leading field-based youth program preferred
- Experience with video conferencing and online education programming preferred
Skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office suite
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Experience with public speaking and using a microphone
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
- Ability to function well in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Required
- Valid driver’s license (any state), clean driving abstract and ability to operate a 15-passenger van
- Current CPR, First Aid and Lifeguarding certification or able to obtain within 3 months of employment
- Must be comfortable working on large vessels and in the ocean, and able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions (heat, humidity, rain, etc.)
- Understanding of increased programming needs (earlier mornings, longer hours, weekend events) in peak season (Jan-July)
Physical Requirements
- Work long days in hot/humid/wet environment aboard a moving vessel at sea
- Strong swimmer
- Bend and safely lift up to 35 lbs
- Team lift (with at least one other person) over 35 lbs
- Stand for extended periods on a moving vessel in rough, bumpy seas
- Frequent bending and squatting
Please fill out job application through link here. Visit pacificwhale.org to learn more about Pacific Whale Foundation and their work in marine conservation, outreach, research and education.
When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.
| Category | Environmental Education , Marine Biology |
| Tags | Marine Mammal , Nature Center |