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Mystic Aquarium

Habitat Interpreter

Mystic, CT · On-site

Habitat Interpreter Department: Marine Mammals and Birds Reports to: Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Job Overview: The Habitat Interpreter serves as a ...

Pheasants Forever

Habitat Specialist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

Habitat Specialist Location: Columbia, South Carolina Application Deadline: Open Continuous until Filled Anticipated State Date : April 2026 Overview: This position is part of a partnership between ...

Pheasants Forever Inc

Habitat Specialist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

Habitat Specialist Location: Columbia, South Carolina Application Deadline: Open Continuous until Filled Anticipated State Date : April 2026 Overview: This position is part of a partnership between ...

Mystic Aquarium

Lead Habitat Interpreter

Mystic, CT · On-site

$68K/yr

The Lead Habitat Interpreter serves as a senior frontline interpreter and shift-level peer leader within Mystic Aquarium's habitat interpretation team. Reporting to the Supervisor, Habitat ...

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How much do habitat jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for habitat in the United States is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Habitat vs Carpenter?

AspectHabitatCarpenter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, some certifications in construction or safetyHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, or vocational training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, community projects, nonprofit settingsConstruction sites, residential and commercial buildings
Employer & Industry UsageHabitat for Humanity, nonprofit organizations, construction companiesConstruction firms, remodeling companies, general contractors

Habitat workers typically focus on community-based construction projects, often with nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity, and may require safety certifications. Carpenters are skilled tradespeople working on building, installing, and repairing structures in various settings, often with formal apprenticeships. While both roles involve construction skills, Habitat workers emphasize community service, whereas carpenters focus on specialized building tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Habitat Restoration Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Habitat Restoration Specialist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping, field survey instruments, and certifications in wetland delineation or ecological restoration are typically required. Strong project management, teamwork, and communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for designing, implementing, and monitoring effective habitat restoration projects that support biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

What are habitat specialists?

Habitat specialists are professionals who focus on the management, conservation, and restoration of natural habitats for wildlife and plant species. They assess habitats to ensure they meet the needs of various organisms, develop plans to protect or improve these environments, and often work with government agencies, conservation organizations, or research institutions. Their work is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, supporting endangered species, and promoting sustainable land use practices.

What are some common challenges faced by Habitat Restoration Specialists, and how can they be addressed in the field?

Habitat Restoration Specialists often encounter challenges such as invasive species management, unpredictable weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders including landowners, government agencies, and conservation groups. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptive project planning, and ongoing field monitoring to ensure restoration goals are met. Collaborative teamwork and staying updated on best practices in ecological restoration can help overcome obstacles and contribute to successful project outcomes.
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What cities are hiring for Habitat jobs? Cities with the most Habitat job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Habitat jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Habitat jobs are:
Habitat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Habitat job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,038 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Habitat Interpreter

Habitat Interpreter

Mystic Aquarium

Mystic, CT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Habitat Interpreter
Department: Marine Mammals and Birds
Reports to: Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Job Overview: The Habitat Interpreter serves as a frontline ambassador for Mystic Aquarium, delivering science-based interpretation and meaningful guest experiences across the Aquarium's full range of habitats including outdoor marine mammal and bird habitats, indoor fish and invertebrate galleries, touch pools, and seasonal experiences.

Reporting to the Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation, this role connects diverse audiences to aquatic wildlife and conservation through engaging public presentations, informal habitat conversations, thematic interpretation, and active guest monitoring.

Habitat Interpreters are expected to cross-train across all interpretive areas and play a critical role in advancing Mystic Aquarium's mission with every visitor interaction.

Primary Functions:

Interpretive Program Delivery

  • Deliver dynamic, science-based interpretive presentations, demonstrations, and informal habitat conversations using approved institutional content and thematic interpretive techniques.
  • Apply audience-centered facilitation to engage diverse guests across age groups, learning styles, and cultural backgrounds.
  • Connect tangible resources (animals, habitats, behaviors) to intangible meanings (conservation, ecology, stewardship) to inspire curiosity and conservation action.
  • Maintain current knowledge of all habitats, animal collection, programs, and institutional messaging across the Aquarium.
  • Adapt programming in real time based on audience response, weather, and operational conditions.

Guest Engagement and Education

  • Provide exceptional internal and external customer service that consistently exceeds Mystic Aquarium's guest experience standards.
  • Greet visitors warmly, answer questions, and create welcoming, inclusive interactions that reflect the Aquarium's commitment to education and conservation.
  • Facilitate touch pool experiences and other interactive elements, providing clear guidance on responsible animal contact and safe behavior.
  • Respond to guest concerns professionally and escalate complex situations to the Lead Habitat Interpreter or Supervisor as appropriate.

Animal Welfare and Safety

  • Monitor multiple habitats to ensure guests follow established safety guidelines and animal welfare protocols.
  • Intervene appropriately when guest behavior risks animal welfare or visitor safety, applying institutional procedures consistently.
  • Support animal care staff with husbandry tasks, behavioral observations, training sessions, and environmental enrichment activities across all habitat areas, as assigned.
  • Assist with diet preparation, habitat maintenance, and basic animal care tasks following federal, state, and institutional husbandry guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation for behavioral observations, guest interactions, and other tracked activities.

Operations and Communication

  • Use radios with proper etiquette and protocols to coordinate with interpretive, husbandry, and operations staff across the campus.
  • Respond effectively to emergency situations involving guests, animals, or facilities, following established procedures and chain of communication.
  • Properly use and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) and report any unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Maintain cleanliness, safety, and presentation standards in all interpretive areas and back-of-house spaces.
  • Support after-hours events, special programs, and seasonal initiatives as scheduled.

Professional Development and Team Contribution

  • Cross-train and maintain working competency across all interpretive areas including marine mammal, bird, fish, and invertebrate habitats, touch pools, and outdoor habitats.
  • Participate in coaching, peer feedback, and ongoing professional development to strengthen interpretive skills and content knowledge.
  • Demonstrate a consistent, professional attitude with a willingness to accept and apply feedback.
  • Contribute to a collaborative, mission-driven team culture (including staff and volunteers) that values continuous learning, inclusion, and high standards.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Education & Experience: High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or degree in Marine Science, Biology, Environmental Education, Natural Resources, or related field preferred. Prior experience in public-facing roles at an aquarium, zoo, nature center, museum, or similar informal education setting is preferred. An equitable mix of education and experience will be considered.
  • Interpretive Skills: Confidence and comfort with public speaking, including amplified presentations to large audiences. Familiarity with thematic, audience-centered interpretation is preferred; National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification, or willingness to obtain, is strongly preferred.
  • Marine Science Content Knowledge: Working knowledge of, or strong willingness to learn, aquatic animals, ecology, marine ecosystems, and conservation issues, with the ability to translate scientific concepts for general audiences.
  • Animal Welfare & Safety Awareness: Understanding of basic animal handling, touch pool protocols, and guest safety practices. Commitment to maintaining high standards of animal welfare in alignment with AZA standards.
  • Communication & Teamwork: Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a cross-functional team operating across all habitat areas. Proficiency with proper radio communication after training.
  • Technology Skills: Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort learning new technologies, including scheduling platforms, data collection tools, microphones, and two-way radios.
  • Schedule Flexibility: Willingness to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime as needed to support Aquarium operations and special events.
  • Mission Alignment: Demonstrated commitment to Mystic Aquarium's mission of conservation, education, and research. Bilingual ability, particularly Spanish, is preferred.
  • Preferred Additional Skills: SCUBA certification with ability to pass a dive physical; swim test certification; experience supporting volunteer programs.

Physical Demands:

This role operates in both indoor and outdoor aquarium environments, requiring the ability to stand and walk for extended periods while delivering programs and monitoring exhibit areas. The position demands physical stamina to work full shifts in varied weather conditions including heat, cold, humidity, rain, and snow. Employees must be able to navigate potentially wet or slick surfaces around water features and habitats, ascend and descend stairs frequently, and maintain alertness in dynamic visitor environments. This role will work in loud environments with heavy crowds. The role requires lifting and carrying materials up to 25 pounds, bending and reaching for habitat maintenance and animal care tasks, and sustained voice projection during presentations and guest interactions. Employees must be comfortable working around and near water, including touch pools and open tank habitats, and be able to respond quickly to emergency situations requiring physical agility.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Employment with this organization is at-will, meaning either the employee or the organization may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable laws. This organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position. If you require an accommodation to complete an application, please contact (860) 572-5955 and ask to speak with the recruitment department. This position may require background checks and reference verification as part of the hiring process.