Employment Opportunities | Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (2024)

Primary Responsibilities

• Registration management: facilitate the transfer of all current education programs to Ticketure; oversee registration processes for all education programs; coordinate with managers/coordinators to establish registration timelines, procedures and requirements; manage online registration systems; provide staff training in registration processes.
• Content development: create compelling and relevant content for education web pages and social media platforms; write, edit, and proofread web content, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to brand guidelines; develop content strategies that align with marketing goals and target audience needs; stay updated on industry trends and best practices to continually improve content quality and effectiveness.
• Content management: use content management systems (CMS) to publish and update web content for all education programs; maintain content calendars and schedules to ensure timely delivery of content updates; organize and categorize content for optimal navigation and user experience.
• Customer service: provide excellent customer service and address inquiries, concerns, and special requests; handle registration-related issues and troubleshoot any challenges that arise during the registration process; ensure participants receive timely and accurate information regarding program logistics.
• Quality assurance: perform regular audits of education web content to identify and correct errors, broken links, and outdated information; ensure content meets accessibility standards and compliance requirements; conduct user testing and gather feedback to improve content usability and effectiveness; assist management team by reviewing grant proposals for grammar and comprehensibility.
• Policies and procedures: work with management team to update and maintain current standard operating procedures including registration policies, cancellation policies, program pricing policies, ADA accessibility protocols, and others as needed.
• Program reporting: establish systems to maintain accurate records of program registrations, payments, and participant information using registration databases; generate reports on program registration metrics, including registration numbers, revenue, and participant demographics; develop and implement new initiatives to enhance the registration process and improve the overall participant experience.
• Marketing and promotion: collaborate with the marketing team to develop promotional materials and strategies to increase awareness and participation in educational programs; assist in the distribution of marketing materials to schools, community organizations, and other target audiences; collect feedback from program participants and use insights to improve program offerings and marketing efforts.

Working Hours

This is a full-time position working Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM with a 1-hour
unpaid lunch. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Minimum Requirements

• Associate’s degree in business, marketing, or related field or equivalent work experience
• Experience in customer service, project coordination, and registration management
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace and experience with registration
  software or databases.
• Ability to learn new software systems and troubleshoot issues with ease. Experience
  with Ticketure & Salesforce strongly preferred.
• Experience with content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal), web analytics
  tools (e.g., Google Analytics) and familiarity with HTML, CSS, and web accessibility.
• Experience in web content management, content creation, and copywriting
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with keen attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-centric approach
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple
  projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Knowledge of marine science, education, or related fields is a plus but not required
• U.S. citizenship or foreign citizen's U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
• Valid US driver’s license with clean driving record and at least 5 years of driving
  experience

Hiring Conditions

The hiring of a successful candidate for this position is conditional on a background check.

To Apply

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Registration Coordinator – Education” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm June 21, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Mote Marine Laboratory is celebrating its 69th anniversary as an independent, non-profit international marine research and education facility with 29 diverse research programs, an impactful array of K-12, undergraduate STEM education/outreach and graduate research programs, including the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates, NSF-sponsored Louis Stokes Alliance Minority Participation Centers of Excellence. Mote has a staff of over 260 members (40 PhD-level) and a group of 1,500 volunteers at its main campus in Sarasota Florida,
along with five additional campuses/facilities including a marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in Summerland Key, coral restoration nursery in Islamorada, and a future Science Education Aquarium under construction in Sarasota.

The chemist position requires a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry, or equivalent, with a minimum of 3 years experience and proficiency in laboratory techniques, focusing on HPLC-MS/MS, and GLC-MS. The position requires the ability to work with other scientists, including chemists, toxicologists and biologists, to design and implement a broad range of research projects encompassing controlled laboratory conditions as well as natural field studies. The chemist must have a command of statistical analysis for data verification and the ability to prepare reports, with the ability to work as part of a team, as well as innovative, independent research. The position involves interactions with scientists from multiple disciplines at Mote, student interns, and visiting scientists.

Applications will be reviewed immediately with an ideal start date by July 3. The position is full time, with a competitive annual salary and annual merit raises. Benefits include partially-subsidized health insurance, with family options available. an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, vacation, and others.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing 2024 Ecotoxicology Analytical Chemist, at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm June 26, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Housing

• Managing housing facilities including reservations, guest housing, guest check-in and out procedures and billing
• Ordering housing and housekeeping supplies
• Managing laboratory and equipment reservations, coordinating with all Project and Laboratory managers
• Planning housekeeping and managing cleaning contractor(s) in regards to dormitories and rental units
• Managing on-site intern housing Administrative and Finance
• Business management office tasks which include day to day administrative duties, e.g.: answering and returning phone calls, departmental record keeping as well as written/email communications, receiving and distributing mail & deliveries, copying, ordering of supplies, etc.
• Handling all office paperwork and workflow including purchase orders, petty cash, store receipts and purchasing receipts, budget reports, invoicing, accounts receivable and travel.
• Preparing monthly financial/accounting reports as a support member of the Business Services Office.
• Assisting staff with travel reservations and completing reimbursem*nt forms obtaining correct documentation.
• Managing timely renewal of contractor agreements, licenses and official documents such as Housekeeping contract, Elevator license, annual County Hurricane Early Re-Entry Placard program, etc.

Sponsored Programs Office

Assisting Program Managers with the processing of grant and proposal paperwork, while ensuring deadlines are met.
Working with the Research Operations Manager and Upper Keys Administrative Assistant on administrative/business and operational needs.

Other

• Serving as the first point of contact in the office, welcoming staff and visitors
• Organizing and setting up meetings, conferences, workshops and special events; occasionally traveling to assist in meetings and events
• Assisting Keys Facilities Manager and Life Support teams with administrative & operational needs
• Managing gift shop and ordering merchandise – using POS terminal for sales
• Maintaining onsite staff uniform distribution, inventory and ordering.
• Monitoring multiple email inboxes and responding or delegating as needed.
• Working with Mote’s Environmental and Occupational Safety Officer to ensure accident/incident forms are completed in a timely manner, and coordinating
  safety training days for Keys staff.
• Reporting maintenance request needs to the Facilities team via the Maintenance Request form.
• Sending facility-wide and/or Keys-wide staff communications, ensuring all Sarasota correspondences are shared with Keys staff.

Minimum Qualifications or Requirements

• Computer competency and experience using Word, Excel, and other accounting software as required. Comfortable with downloading, networking, scanning, copying, faxing, etc.
• BS or BA preferred or equivalent experience

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Capable of working independently without supervision, prioritizing workload and multi-tasking
• Capable of working well under remote field-station conditions
• Excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills with colleagues across multiple locations; ability to work with people from various backgrounds
• Capable of scheduling and managing housing, research and educational usages
• Knowledge of general accounting principles and related experience

To Apply

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Administrative and Housing Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm June 28, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Tasks:
1. Guest Services

• Greet all guests with a smile and friendly demeanor
• Provide interesting and helpful information on Mote’s research and public outreach programs
• Professionally answer guest inquiries and handle requests or complaints Responsible for opening and closing procedures, including daily cleaning duties of the Center
• Sell, renew, and promote memberships, Adopt-an-Animal, and other fundraising programs to guests
• Perform any other customer relation duties; including emergency assistance and safety procedures

2. Aquarium Biologist

• Responsible for the daily husbandry of animals; including preparation of diets, observation and recording of daily/medical care, maintenance of animal exhibit space
• Communicate daily husbandry activities with staff and volunteers
• Assists with life support and water quality of exhibits as needed; including filter changes, handling of chemicals, performing water quality tests, gravel vacuuming, and water changes
• Potential to work independently during times of coverage, such as sick or vacation times

3. Retail

• Replenish inventory on the sales floor
• Receive and handle merchandise payment by credit card
• Maintain cleanliness of the retail area and front desk displays
• Maintain knowledge of policies regarding returns or exchanges, sales or promotions, and retail loss prevention practices
• Respond to requests for assistance promptly

Skills:

• Able to work independently or as a team
• Possess time management and organizational skills
• Public speaking and communication skills
• Customer skills such as critical thinking and active listening
• Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, behavior, and exhibit quality

Working Hours: Normal hours are 8:15 a.m. – 5:15 p.m., with one unpaid hour for lunch and will include weekend and holiday hours. Occasional longer daily hours or evening hours may be required to complete specific tasks.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree (or working towards one) in Marine Science, Biology, or related field preferred OR equivalent combination of related work experience preferred
• First- Aid/CPR/AED certified or ability to obtain certification within 3 months of hire Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs occasionally
  • Able to walk, stand, bend, or crouch for extended periods of time
  • Capable of working around bleach or other sanitizing chemicals
  • Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes regularly
• Experience: Animal care employment, internships, or volunteering experience in a public, aquarium, zoo, or related institution preferred.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Operations Associate – AMI Pier” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 5, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Position: Marketing Coordinator
Reports to: Kaitlyn Fusco
Labor category: Hourly, Non-exempt

About the Company:

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has a nearly 70-year legacy as an independent, nonprofit, 501(c)3 global marine research and science education institution. Mote began in 1955 and flourished on the foundational pillars of “Passion, Partnership and Philanthropy” – the passion of a single researcher, Dr. Eugenie Clark, her partnership with the community and philanthropic support, first of the Vanderbilt family, later with the significant support and guidance of the William R. Mote family, and today through donations by thousands of individuals who believe in the mission of Mote.

Today, Mote has grown into eight campuses stretching from Tampa Bay to Key West, with a ninth new campus, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), currently under construction. Mote has more than 25 diverse world-class research programs studying oceans locally and internationally, with an emphasis on positively impacting conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The current Mote Aquarium in Sarasota showcases Mote Research and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 pm, 365 days a year.Learn more atmote.org.

Primary focuses of this position include:

• Social Media Coordination: This position will work with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to regularly and consistently execute social media best practices across all of Mote’s social platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Twitter and LinkedIn). The primary focus of this position is to enhance Mote’s role as a leader in its fields: marine science, regional tourism, and STEM education, and to support and enhance the institution’s brand primarily through effective and strategic social media, marketing, and outreach efforts.
  • This position will be responsible for maintaining Mote’s mission in its social media and marketing content as Mote continues to grow as a leader in marine science and STEM education, and as a science-first attraction.
  • This position will provide video-focused, visually appealing and engaging that aligns with Mote’s brand and mission.
• Email marketing: Responsible for working with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to plan, execute, and optimize email marketing campaigns, including Mote
  Insider and the volunteer newsletter, as well as serving as the communications lead on any other email campaigns from other departments.
• Promotional Plans: Works with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to develop and execute promotional plans for various Aquarium events or fundraising campaigns.
  This includes, but is not limited to social media, email marketing, and event listings, as well as other innovative ideas to promote events or campaigns. Major duties and responsibilities:
• Content creation:
  • Develop and maintain close internal relationships with all levels of staff in order to keep abreast of all aspects of the organization including new research studies, new and/or changing exhibits, education programs, events, volunteer programs etc., with the goal of contributing to Mote’s marketing strategy, including but not limited to social media.
  • Write and create high quality, engaging content for various media including, but not limited to email communications (Mote Insider, digital fundraising campaigns, event invitations or announcement emails, etc.); and social media (Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Twitter, etc.).
  • Maintain Mote’s brand across all channels, ensuring consistent representation of brand values and visual identity.
  • Ensure cohesive brand representation across digital platforms, aligning website content with social media, email campaigns, and other digital marketing efforts.
  • Maintain a current social media/marketing content calendar
  • Lead regular meetings with the other departments, including Aquarium and Education, to develop content ideas aligning with current trends that align with Mote’s mission and voice
• Social Media Coordination:
  • This position will contribute to content creation, community/social media engagement, and social media strategy
  • Works with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to plan, develop, implement, and manage strategies for Mote’s social media accounts.
  • Plans and develops social media content that aligns with Mote’s mission and goals
  • Staying up-to-date on current news, trends, or pop culture events and creatively crafting those into social media opportunities that align with Mote’s mission and brand.
  • Incorporate research-based content into Mote’s social media strategy
  • Crafting and editing compelling content, especially video content
  • Assists with paid social media ads that are not placed by Mote’s outside advertising agency.
  • Engage with Mote’s online community by responding to comments, direct messages, and moderating online discussions as needed, while maintaining Mote’s voice in all communications.
  • Research social media marketing tools to ensure Mote is utilizing the best tools for optimal performance
  • Stay up-to-date with changes in social media algorithms and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Schedule and publish social media posts according to the content calendar
  • Ensure that posts are published at optimal times to reach our target audience and maximize engagement
  • Monitor post performance and adjust scheduling as needed
• Email marketing:
  • Develop and execute story ideas for Mote’s bi-weekly e-newsletter, Mote Insider, obtain all visuals needed for each story, and ensure Mote Insider deadlines are met
  • Work closely with the Volunteer office to develop and execute the monthly
  • Volunteer e-newsletter, including story highlights and visuals, and ensure deadlines are met
  • Provide communications support for other departments that send out email communications
• Promotional plans:
  • Works with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to create and execute promotional plans for Aquarium events and promotions, Development initiatives, and others
  • Effectively and regularly communicates with all departments involved in an event or initiative to ensure promotional plan success
• Analyzing metrics:
  • Works with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to set key performance indicators (KPIs) for social media campaigns, such as targets for a certain number of shares or likes and measuring a campaign’s performance against the KPIs
  • Works with the Marketing & Public Relations Manager to monitor and interpret analytics to find data-driven improvement strategies for the performance of the department’s communications, including but not limited to social media management analytics and email Campaign analytics in Mote’s current email marketing platform, Campaign Monitor.
  • With a high focus on a team work mentality and an emphasis on fostering talent growth, this position also has periodic opportunities to be cross-trained in other communications areas such as media relations.
• Other duties as needed to support the other CRC staff.

Working Hours: Full-time position. Regular office hours, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., with the
understanding that flexibility is required to provide events after hours and on weekends.

Minimum qualifications:

• 0-2 years experience in social media, content marketing, and social media
  communications and
  • Using mass email distribution systems and associated analytic tools
    Writing/editing experience for promotional purposes
    Social media content creation and management in a professional environment
    Video content capture and editing
  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications or related field
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to juggle multiple priorities and tasks simultaneously
  • Creative and detail-oriented
  • Collaborative
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to simplify complex topics for a general audience
  • Experience with marketing software and analytics tools
  • Ability to work with staff, volunteers, and interns at all levels
  • Can successfully work independently, but can also excel as a team player
  • Administrative skills such as proficiency with Microsoft Office, with the ability to adapt to the department’s preferred project management and productivity software
  • Scuba certified, preferred

To Apply:

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Marketing Coordinator” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 5, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

Mote Background: Mote is celebrating nearly 70 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. The Mote research enterprise has over 25 diverse research programs, an array of STEM education/outreach programs, and an aquarium featuring working laboratories with more than 100 marine species. Mote currently has more than 40 PhD-level scientists, nearly 300 staff and approximately 1300 volunteers located on its main campus in Sarasota and across seven additional campuses/facilities, including a state- of-the-art 200-acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, and a 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys. Work on a new 110,000 square foot Mote Science Education Aquarium is nearing completion.

Application: Applicants must have a Ph.D. in marine chemistry, biogeochemistry, or similar field. This is a full-time position for up to 3 years (pending acceptable performance) and includes an expected initial annual salary of approximately $60,000, health insurance with family options, and benefits including an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. The Research Position will also have established researchers assigned to serve as a Mentors. The position will be for a period of three years, assuming appropriate annual progress.

Applicants should submit the following:

• Cover letter of interest including present employment status.
• Academic transcript of doctoral studies
• Copy of PhD if achieved or expected graduation date.
• Curriculum vitae
• Names and contact information for three references.

To Apply:

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Postdoctoral Researcher – Sediments” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 26, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time. Mote Marine Laboratory is an E-Verify employer.

Questions regarding this position may be sent to Emily Hall, Senior Scientist and Program Manager, Chemical and Physical Ecology and Ocean Acidification Programs at emily8@mote.org.

A qualified candidate should have a related science background, knowledge of experimental lab equipment and facilities, water quality sampling/monitoring experience, be willing and able to prepare for and clean up after tabletop lab and large tank testing, and have an understanding of HAB mitigation and control techniques. This individual should be able to work independently to meet culture and experimental design goals, must have strong organization skills, and be a good communicator. This position will report to the Research Laboratory Manager and the primary place of employment is located at the Mote Aquaculture Park at 12300 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34240.

Requirements:

1. Valid Driver’s License.
2. Degree in a related field is required.
3. Knowledge of experimental lab and tank systems.
4. Familiar with standard computer software.
5. The ability to work productively individually or in a group setting with scientists.

Special Qualifications:

1. Knowledge of Karenia brevis and/or other HAB culturing is preferred.
2. Knowledge of Florida marine ecosystems, including seagrass.
3. Previous laboratory and experimental tank systems experience.
4. Microscopy/Flow Imaging Microscopy skills.
5. Familiar with marine organism experimental testing equipment (monitoring probes, temperature probes, tanks, pumps, filters, heaters, etc.).
6. Strong troubleshooting skills.
7. Ability to work independently and stay organized.
8. Good teamwork and communication skills.
9. Physically able to lift 50 pounds and remain standing/walking for multiple hours a day.

Duties:

1. Grow cultures in quantities ranging from 1-1,000 liters of various HAB species. (50%)
2. Maintain a clean and operational lab. (10%)
3. Assist Red Tide Initiative staff and partners with project preparation, experimental design, and facility operations as needed. (25%)
4. Assist the Seagrass Ecosystem Research & Restoration Program with greenhouse facility operations. (15%)

This is a full-time position with an immediate start date, includes an annual salary of $38,000-$46,000 commensurate with experience. The position includes partially-subsidized health insurance, with family options available. Benefits include an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits.

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Technician, HAB and Seagrass” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter addressed to Kevin Claridge, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm July 26, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.

General Responsibilities:

• Ensure all building operational computer programs are continuously monitored ad updated for proper functionality of the computer programs and associated equipment
• Ensure functionality is meeting the needs of all internal/external buildings users
• Develop, implement, and update as needed, preventative maintenance programs for all Mote systems and equipment
• Conduct regular inspections to identify maintenance needs and concern
• Ensure emergency maintenance needs are addressed in a timely manner
• Monitor and inspect HVAC, plumbing, and electrical equipment for proper functionality
• Communicate accurately, effectively, and regularly with members of other departments
• Ability to perform all duties required of building department staff

Skills:

• Established expertise in computer building systems
• Established expertise in working with PVC pipe, solvent cement, epoxy, etc.
• Clear, timely and effective verbal and written communication
• Proficiency and knowledge in the practices of mechanical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, electrical, concrete and other trades.
• Ability to perform labor-intensive tasks, often under inclement weather conditions, and be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years building operations experience
• Valid FL driver’s license

Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2024 Building Operations Lead” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 or send a letter of interest and resume to HumanResources@mote.org before 5pm July 12, 2024.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.