Habitat Interpreter
Frontline guest-facing role at Mystic Aquarium delivering science-based interpretive presentations and habitat conversations across marine mammal, bird, fish, and invertebrate exhibits and touch pools. Also monitors guest safety and animal welfare, supports husbandry tasks like diet prep, and cross-trains across all interpretive areas.
- Compensation
- $18–$19 / hr
- Location
- Mystic, CT, US
- Work setup
- Not specified
- Seniority
- Not specified
- Employment
- Full time
- Experience
- Not specified
- Category
- Technical writing
- Posted
Skills
Must have
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Confidence and comfort with public speaking, including amplified presentations to large audiences
- Working knowledge of, or strong willingness to learn, aquatic animals, ecology, marine ecosystems, and conservation issues
- Understanding of basic animal handling, touch pool protocols, and guest safety practices
- Commitment to high animal welfare standards aligned with AZA standards
- Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; effective cross-functional teamwork
- Proficiency with proper radio communication after training
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort learning new technologies (scheduling platforms, data collection tools, microphones, two-way radios)
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime
- Demonstrated commitment to Mystic Aquarium's mission of conservation, education, and research
- Physical stamina to stand/walk for extended periods in varied weather, work near water, lift up to 25 lbs, and project voice during presentations
Nice to have
- Coursework or degree in Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Education, Natural Resources, or related field
- Prior public-facing experience at an aquarium, zoo, nature center, museum, or similar informal education setting
- NAI Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification, or willingness to obtain
- Bilingual ability, particularly Spanish
- SCUBA certification with ability to pass a dive physical
- Swim test certification
- Experience supporting volunteer programs
Full description
Habitat InterpreterDepartment: Marine Mammals and Birds
Reports to: Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Benefits: This position is eligible for medical/dental/and vision benefits. All supplemental insurances also qualify. This position is also 401(k) eligible.
Salary: $18-$19 per hour
Job Overview: The Habitat Interpreter serves as a frontline ambassador for Mystic Aquarium, delivering science-based interpretation and meaningful guest experiences across the Aquarium's full range of habitats including outdoor marine mammal and bird habitats, indoor fish and invertebrate galleries, touch pools, and seasonal experiences.
Reporting to the Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation, this role connects diverse audiences to aquatic wildlife and conservation through engaging public presentations, informal habitat conversations, thematic interpretation, and active guest monitoring.
Habitat Interpreters are expected to cross-train across all interpretive areas and play a critical role in advancing Mystic Aquarium's mission with every visitor interaction.
Primary Functions:
Interpretive Program Delivery
- Deliver dynamic, science-based interpretive presentations, demonstrations, and informal habitat conversations using approved institutional content and thematic interpretive techniques.
- Apply audience-centered facilitation to engage diverse guests across age groups, learning styles, and cultural backgrounds.
- Connect tangible resources (animals, habitats, behaviors) to intangible meanings (conservation, ecology, stewardship) to inspire curiosity and conservation action.
- Maintain current knowledge of all habitats, animal collection, programs, and institutional messaging across the Aquarium.
- Adapt programming in real time based on audience response, weather, and operational conditions.
Guest Engagement and Education
- Provide exceptional internal and external customer service that consistently exceeds Mystic Aquarium's guest experience standards.
- Greet visitors warmly, answer questions, and create welcoming, inclusive interactions that reflect the Aquarium's commitment to education and conservation.
- Facilitate touch pool experiences and other interactive elements, providing clear guidance on responsible animal contact and safe behavior.
- Respond to guest concerns professionally and escalate complex situations to the Lead Habitat Interpreter or Supervisor as appropriate.
Animal Welfare and Safety