Marine Science Educator
About the organisation
Greater Farallones Association (GFA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working in close partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to conserve the ecosystems of the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries. GFA conducts joint research, conservation, and education to support healthy ecosystems in the Sanctuaries, which comprise one of the most bountiful and nationally significant marine environments in the world, an area of 4,581 square miles off the northern and central California coast. With approximately 30 staff members, GFA is supported by a diverse mix of government grants, program fees, private philanthropy, and donated services. GFA has an annual operating budget of approximately $5 million and is co-located in the National Marine Sanctuary office, situated in a beautiful historic building on Crissy Field in the Presidio, which also houses a staffed Visitor Center with exhibits and aquaria open Wed-Sun 10am-4pm and provides a base for on-site field trips for school classes.
Greater Farallones Association aims to foster inclusivity and equity within our organization, and in the broader fields of ocean conservation, environmental education, and nonprofit management. All staff members are expected to bring a demonstrated commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable, and effective workplace.
About the role
The Greater Farallones Association seeks a Marine Science Educator to provide instructional support for education projects, in particular delivering ocean science lessons to our after-school program, Ocean AfterSchool. This position is designed for individuals looking to continue developing their science communication and organizational skills as a classroom marine science educator and gain hands-on experience with two national marine sanctuaries.
The Ocean AfterSchool (OAS) program is funded by the San Francisco Department of Children, Youth, and their Families (DCYF) to serve primarily at-risk students in grades 2 to 7 with a series of ocean science enrichment programs during their out-of-school time period. A special focus is on increasing accessibility of ocean science by working with youth with disabilities and non-English or English as a Second Language speakers.
This position will lead lessons in the classroom with a focus on Spanish bilingual classes, provide a safe and supportive learning environment, meet youth teaching standards, and maintain quality curricula. This position may be engaged in outreach related to the OAS program and receive opportunities for professional development provided by DCYF. Reporting to the GFA Education Program Manager, this part-time, non-exempt position will work 15-28 hours weekly, depending on program schedules during the school year and the candidate’s availability. The position will work closely with other GFA education staff and, as an affiliate with NOAA, overlap with federal Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary staff in coordinating program delivery. This position will also work closely with school staff and staff from our partner organizations
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age
- Minimal experience teaching K-12 students from all backgrounds, including urban youth and youth with special needs, and willingness to continue learning new teaching skills for effective instruction
- General knowledge, interest, and willingness to learn about ocean and marine science concepts, including key ocean organisms, coastal ecosystems, and coastal stewardship
- Ability to work as a team member and be an effective communicator
- Fluency in both English and Spanish, comfortable teaching interchangeably in both languages
- Strong computer and organizational skills, particularly in Google Workspace, to assist with collecting student data, evaluations, class attendance, and communicating with partners
- Commitment to fostering an inclusive and healthy workplace that accepts and supports all staff members
- Ability to adjust quickly to changing priorities and manage tasks in a sometimes stressful environment
- Ability to work a flexible schedule focused on afternoons during the afterschool period (between the hours of 2 – 6:30 pm)
- Ability to lift and carry 35 lbs, as this position requires transporting educational materials
- A valid driver’s license, access to a reliable personal motor vehicle, and proof of auto insurance; ability and flexibility to travel as needed to school sites
- Pass a mandatory federal background check and defensive driving course
- Be fully vaccinated against COVID as defined by the Centers for Disease Control, and provide proof prior to beginning work (exemptions apply)
- Documented negative TB test within the last 3 years
Salary and benefits
This is a part-time, non-exempt staff position with Greater Farallones Association, based in San Francisco, and officially affiliated with NOAA. The starting pay for the position is $28 per hour and is not eligible for health benefits.
Start date
October 2025
How to apply
To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, and three references – all in a single PDF – to education@farallones.org. Your cover letter should address your commitment to being an effective educator and demonstrate your enthusiasm for marine science, sharing relevant experience where applicable. We encourage all those interested in marine science education to apply. Applications will be reviewed starting in mid-to late-September.
