Please see the following website for application link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=98930ce8-632f-495a-bf7b-12cd372446bd&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=290773&source=CC3&lang=en_US#new_tab

Posted: Open to internal and external applicants

Reports to: Director of conservation programs & partnerships

Status: Hourly/non-exempt, temporary, four-month-long position, specific dates based on start date (anticipated June through September 2019)

Hours of work: Variable schedule, typically Monday through Friday, 20 hours per week; flexibility desired for evening or weekend hours around events

Date needed: June 1, 2019

Posting expires: Open until filled

About the organization:

The Seattle Aquarium is a respected authority on Puget Sound, the Salish Sea and the world’s one ocean. Our passionate staff increases awareness and drives the change needed to preserve and protect our marine environment through a variety of channels including: a compelling exhibit experience and engaging daytime and evening events; conservation education programs for people of all ages and backgrounds; community outreach to underserved populations; research that advances understanding of animals in our care and their counterparts in the
wild; advocacy and policy work; an award-winning volunteer program; strong and consistent marketing efforts; and more.

We’re noted for our collaborative, communicative and team-oriented working environment. Our values, developed in conjunction with our staff, include commitments to adopting and promoting sustainable practices; creating awe-inspiring experiences; constantly learning and improving; fostering an inclusive community; maintaining scientific credibility through evidence-based practices; and honoring our unique place by using our location and history as a lens for larger understanding.

Proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, we’re the eighth-largest aquarium in the U.S. by attendance and we welcome over 850,000 people through our front doors each year. Guided by our mission of Inspiring Conservation of Our Marine Environment, we’ve developed a master plan to substantially increase in size and impact by opening a new exhibit building, the Ocean Pavilion. Our current annual budget is $18 million.

Position description:

The sustainability work across the Aquarium organization includes efforts focused on everything from reducing single-use plastics throughout the facility, to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to improving food sustainability. We are seeking a part-time, temporary, seafood sustainability assistant to lead an evaluation of the food purchased to feed the animals in our care, which represents 75% of the seafood we purchase. The project will investigate Seafood Watch rankings, source and overall carbon footprint. The position will work with Aquarium life sciences staff (e.g., veterinarian, animal care specialists) and external partners to gather data, identify alternatives (if applicable) and make recommendations. The approach to and results from this work will not only lead to improved food sustainability at the Seattle Aquarium but will also serve as a model for other AZA institutions.

Essential functions:

• Create and implement an evaluation protocol to assess the sustainability of the food purchased for the animals in our care, including Seafood Watch rank, source and carbon footprint.
• Identify alternative food items to improve sustainability, including nutritional, financial and feasibility considerations, working in close collaboration with the Aquarium veterinarian and curators.
• Develop a report, including a summary and recommendations for improvements.
• Support data analysis and preparation of results for sharing at conferences and/or public meetings.

Additional responsibilities:

• Work with the marketing department to develop clear, compelling communication materials for use on our web platforms and/or print materials.
• Participate in public speaking or public engagement opportunities as they arise.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required skills, abilities:

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Understanding of the process of structured evaluations.
• Strong organizational skills, an ability to prioritize and consistently meet deadlines, and a high degree of professionalism.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access) and internet browsers.
• Self-motivated with a demonstrated passion for the Aquarium’s mission and values.

Experience, education and certifications:

We will consider various combinations of relevant experience and education in order to meet minimum requirements.

Required:

• B.A./B.S. in a relevant field, such as biology, zoology, animal health or conservation. Graduate students and former students who have graduated within the last five years are welcome to apply.
• One to two years of cumulative experience working on seafood issues through coursework, research or professional experience.
• Minimum of one year of marine research experience.

Preferred:

• Experience with implementing structured evaluations.
• Experience working or volunteering with aquariums a plus.

Working conditions:

• May be sitting for long periods of time (i.e., 4+ hours in front of a computer screen).
• This position will work 20 hours per week and may require working occasional weekend hours to support events.

Pay and benefits:

$1,400 monthly stipend, paid at a rate of $16.75/hour based on 20 hour work week. Temporary staff are not eligible for benefits but accrue paid sick time and are paid an additional $0.75/hour to assist with transportation costs.

How to apply:

The Seattle Aquarium is a progressive, equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce. All candidates are encouraged to apply by uploading a résumé and one-page letter detailing interest and relevant experience in our online application.

Please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for this job.

Note: Must pass a background check, upon job offer, to be eligible for this position.