The Living Coast Discovery Center is a nonprofit zoo and aquarium located on Sweetwater Marsh Unit of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Founded in 1987 as the Chula Vista Nature Interpretive Center, we have served the San Diego community for over 35 years, inspiring the community to connect with and care for our coastal environment. Our team members play a crucial role in advancing our education and conservation efforts and bringing us closer to a world with thriving coastlines. 

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION 

The Education Instructor delivers high-quality informal education experiences to groups of all ages using hands-on, interactive teaching techniques. You engage diverse audiences in exploring nature and actively participating in environmental conservation. As a Bilingual Education Instructor, you expand our influence and promote a sense of belonging among Spanish-speaking members of our community. 

WHAT YOU WILL DO 

• Present public-facing programs such as tours, live animal encounters, guided hikes, habitat clean-ups, exhibit interpretation, and outreach events 
• Facilitate preK-12 student programs such as onsite school group field trips, offsite classroom-based programs, day camps, scout programs, birthday parties, and overnight adventures 
• Serve in guidance role for onsite or offsite volunteers, modeling interpretive techniques, customer service, and general job knowledge 
• Provide special event support and work with outside vendors 

*Bilingual Instructor, additional duties: 

• Be the primary staff assigned to present such programs marketed as bilingual, providing environmental education in English, Spanish, or a combination of both 
• Provide exhibit interpretation, instructional support, and customer service in English and Spanish 
• Percent of job duties requiring Spanish language use: at least 20% 

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR 
This role is a bridge between communities and nature, so we are looking for applicants who share our commitment to providing equitable access to nature, with proven experience instructing student and public audiences. Applicants must be 18 years of age. 

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS 

• Minimum 2 years college coursework in Biology, Environmental Science, or related field 
• At least 6 months teaching experience in a classroom, science center, zoo, or nature center 
• Current valid California Driver’s license in good standing 
• CPR/First Aid Certificate or ability to acquire (will be provided by the Living Coast) 

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

• Familiar with cultural sensitivities and able to deliver information that resonates with multiple audiences 
• General knowledge of science, wildlife and ecosystems 
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills 
• Proven ability to work in a team or independent environment 

For bilingual classification: Fluent in English and proficient in oral Spanish at Intermediate High level  (pay differential contingent on ACTFL testing and certification – will be provided by the Living Coast) 

PREFERRED SKILLS 

• B.A./B.S. in Biology, Environmental Science, or related field  
• Animal handling experience – marine species, reptiles, and/or birds of prey 
• Computer knowledge 

IMPORTANT DETAILS 

• Location: Chula Vista, CA 
• Duration: Regular Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Position 
• Pay rate: $18 - $19 per hour (plus bilingual pay differential with certification) 
• Department: Education & Guest Experience 
• Availability: Minimum availability requirement of 3 days including 1 weekend day 
• Required training and work dates: May 1, 3, and 4, 2025 (must inform us of conflicts) 
• Shifts vary based on programmatic needs; may occur weekdays and weekends, early mornings and late evenings, and may include some overnights 
• Greater availability in the summer (June – August), up to 40 hours per week for camp or onsite duties, is preferred 

PERKS OF THE POSITION: 
As part of the Living Coast family, you’ll enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment and great teammates, as well as: 

• FREE admission for staff; discounted admission tickets for family and friends 
• Discounts on merchandise 
• Reciprocal admission to many local organizations 
• Paid sick time (40 hours/year) 

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Work is performed while stationary or traveling, with occasional bending, reaching, and moving items weighing up to 20lbs. Reasonable accommodations can be made to these duties. 
• Work is performed indoors and outdoors, with exposure to inclement weather, both onsite at the Living Coast, and offsite at schools, libraries, outdoor events, beaches or parks, and designated hiking trails. 
• This position may require driving company vehicles with supplies, animals, and passengers. 
• Staff are in direct contact with ambassador animals, including marine animals, reptiles, and birds, subject to training by Animal Care staff. 

This job description is intended as a guide to the general job responsibilities and is not inclusive of every duty staff is expected to perform.