For 26 years, Herring Gut Coastal Science Center has been Midcoast Maine’s source for marine science education and exploration. Our mission to educate students and communities about the connections between the ocean, inland waters, and Maine's economy reaches over 10,000 visitors annually.
As a Summer Educator, you will assist with educating the community of year-round and seasonal visitors on the importance of becoming future stewards of our natural and cultural resources. For additional information on Herring Gut Coastal Science Center (HGCSC), please visit www.herringgut.org.
Being a Summer Educator at Herring Gut Coastal Science Center will help prepare you for many career paths, particularly for majors in marine and environmental sciences, oceanography, K-12 education, communications, and biology!
In this role, you will:
Prepare for and teach marine science classes to groups and individuals of all ages.
Support HGCSC’s camps, school, and community programs.
Guide and mentor participants in summer camps and off-site outreach programs throughout the region. This may include tidepool treks, science sails, island explorations, and touch tank programs.
Ensure safety and supervision of all campers and program participants.
Interact with and provide a positive experience for all walk-in visitors.
Learn how to properly handle and care for marine animals and plants for programming.
Assist in maintaining organization facilities (i.e., buildings and materials, including aquaponics, aquaculture, greenhouse operations, and saltwater aquariums).
Other activities as necessary to advance the mission of Herring Gut Coastal Science Center.
To be successful, you will need:
Experience and/or education in: marine sciences, outdoor/environmental education, environmental sciences, natural resources, education, and/or conservation. Preferred enrollment in a degree program or completion of an accredited college or university degree.
Ability to work with individuals of all ages and abilities.
Ability to work independently and within a team.
Show compassion, empathy, and patience with all visitors.
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
Excellent people skills and a professional demeanor.
To be legally able to work in the U.S.
A Valid Driver’s License and a clean driving record.
Reliable transportation to and from work.
Must possess or be willing to obtain: current CPR and First Aid certifications.
Complete a required Maine State Background check for working with children by the position start date.
Be willing to embody the characteristics of fairness, inclusion, justice, and equity in interactions with staff, visitors, and campers.
Tolerance of inclement weather conditions.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and occasionally bend or crouch around exhibits.
Ability to traverse uneven and wet surfaces.
If you require reasonable accommodations to complete the application process due to a disability, please contact Katie Liberman at (207) 372-8677 or kliberman@herringgut.org to discuss your needs.
Compensation: $17/hr and housing on campus if needed
Start Date: June 8th, 2026
End Date: August 14th, 2026
Application Deadline: March 30th, 2026
To apply, please submit your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to: educators@herringgut.org