Temporary Field Instructor

MarineLab is hiring a Temporary Field Instructor for its environmental education programmes based in the Florida Keys (Florida Bay area). The role is full-time (40 hours per week) for the period 26 August 2026 to 10 August 2027, with shared on-site housing provided. The Instructor reports to the Director of Programs and works predominantly outdoors in marine and coastal habitats, delivering immersive field experiences to school, college, and adult groups.

Day-to-day responsibilities include teaching field-based marine science classes (snorkel-based reef and seagrass surveys, mangrove ecology, plankton tows, water quality, and shoreline studies), driving and operating MarineLab boats, providing safety supervision for participants in and around the water, leading shore-based labs and discussions, and coordinating closely with co-instructors and visiting teachers. Instructors live and work in the Florida Keys throughout the contract and are expected to support the integrated programming MarineLab provides each visiting group.

Additional duties include maintenance of teaching equipment and small boats, support of housekeeping and food service tasks on rotation, contribution to MarineLab health and safety protocols, and participation in ongoing training and curriculum development. The role is well-suited to early-career educators or scientists who want intensive hands-on field experience with K to 12 and adult learners in a tropical marine setting.

Required qualifications include a Bachelor degree in marine science, biology, environmental education, or a related field; comfort teaching in the field and in the water; strong swimming and snorkel skills; the ability to obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Training and Certification (provided); the ability to lift and carry equipment and to work long hours outdoors in heat and sun; and willingness to live in shared on-site housing for the duration of the contract. Prior experience with informal science education, small boats, or aquatic safety is desirable. Compensation includes a $550/week stipend, housing, some meals, paid training, paid sick time, lifeguard certification, reduced-cost gym membership, and potential for future temporary or full-time employment.

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Original posting: https://www.marinelab.org/instructor