Youth Programs Specialist

The Center for Aquatic Sciences is seeking a passionate and motivated Youth Programs Specialist (YPS) to support our Community and Urban Science Enrichment (CAUSE) and Explorers programs.

The CAUSE program is a multi-year after-school and summer initiative that introduces Camden high school students to marine biology, ecology, oceanography, career exploration, project management, and life skills. The Explorers program serves as a pipeline for students in grades 7 and 8, preparing them for future participation in CAUSE.

Working under the direction of the Senior Manager of Youth Programs, the Youth Programs Specialist will assist with planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programming while mentoring youth and helping advance the Center's mission of environmental education and community engagement.

• Assist with recruitment for CAUSE and Explorers by preparing promotional materials, conducting outreach, interviewing applicants, and selecting participants.
• Coordinate and facilitate educational programming, including lessons, workshops, field trips, and special events.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all participants.
• Research, develop, and deliver educational materials and presentations.
• Assist with program evaluations and continuous improvement efforts.
• Prepare CAUSE students to serve as summer camp instructors by developing teaching strategies, curriculum, and professional skills.
• Mentor students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Support other Center programs and events as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The ideal candidate will:

• Support the Center's mission and values.
• Represent the organization professionally and positively.
• Be energetic, dependable, flexible, and enthusiastic about working with youth and wildlife.
• Possess strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Be able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Be comfortable working outdoors and around reptiles, insects, fish, and other marine animals.
• Be proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Hold a valid driver's license.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Successfully complete all required background checks, fingerprinting, and child abuse clearances.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Science, Youth Development, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience teaching or leading educational programming in a classroom or informal education setting such as a museum, zoo, aquarium, or nature center.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred:

• Experience mentoring, coaching, or supervising youth.
• Experience supervising interns or staff.
• Spanish language proficiency or additional language skills.

• Part-time (approximately 20 hours per week)
• Primarily Tuesday through Saturday
• Evening and weekend availability required as programs dictate.
• Must be able to travel locally and drive a passenger vehicle, including a 15-passenger van, when necessary.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
• Ability to work safely around animals and environmental education equipment.

$16.70-$18.00 per hour, based on qualifications and experience.