Assistant Manager for AquaVan Program

• ROLE OVERVIEW

Oversees all aspects of the AquaVan Program. Working with the Manager of Curriculum Programs, the Assistant Manager liaises with other internal departments and external stakeholders to ensure the success of the AquaVan program and its ability to support the goals of the organization.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Provides leadership for the AquaVan Team by:

• Acting as a primary support and mentor for the AquaVan Team through recruitment, performance reviews, regular coaching, recognition, development, scheduling, payroll, and job-related training;
• Working with clients, funders and internal stakeholders to ensure the highest professional standards for the AquaVan program are met in accordance with the Aquarium organizational goals and objectives;
• Creating team and individual S.M.A.R.T. targets in line with departmental objectives;Overseeing all logistics, planning and delivery of the AquaVan program to ensure successful outreach delivery in communities throughout Canada.

Ensures Quality AquaVan Programming by:

• Working as an acting manager on-the-road for the for a total average tour length of 21 days and total travel time of 90 days per year outside the Lower Mainland delivering educational and community programs;
• Conducting regular assessments of programs, delivery, logistics and client feedback, while working with the Manager of Curriculum Programs to ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of the AquaVan program;
• Supporting cross-training and delivery of education programs onsite and across Canada including customized programs and professional development workshops where required.

Ensures Logistical and Administrative Accountability for the AquaVan Team by:

• Developing, implementing and monitoring of all AquaVan operations; this includes year-long regional tour delivery, grant objectives, budget tracking, vehicle and system maintenance and project timelines in accordance with organizational policy and standards;
• Overseeing the timely completion and effective implementation of AquaVan marketing plans, EMS objectives, funding reports and grant deliverables;
• Conducting regular review and evaluation of program delivery and providing recommendations for departmental efficiency and improvement.

Other Duties

• Maintaining a good working knowledge of marine and freshwater animals, and ecosystems;
• Continually improves our impact on the environment and greening of operations through support of EMS protocols;
• Maintains organizational safety standards;
• Other Duties as Required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Education, Conservation or related field;
• Two to three years supervisory experience and strong leadership skills;
• Interpretive teaching experience is required; emphasis on conservation education and marine/freshwater biology;
• Clean driving record; capable and comfortable with driving a 32’ truck (professional training is provided);
• Required to maintain a valid BC driver’s license in good standing. (The role requires the employee to drive the AquaVan and support vehicles for program delivery throughout BC and Western Canada.);
• Demonstrated project management experience and strong time management skills;
• Animal care or husbandry experience an asset.

Technical Competencies

• Excellent leadership and management skills and abilities;
• Strong communication skills and writing skills;
• General understanding of mechanical systems and vehicles;
• Ability to lead and motivate a team as well as to work as a cooperative team member;
• Must be creative, flexible and enthusiastic;
• Strong problem solving and decision making skills;
• Knowledge of geography of Western Canada a plus;
• Active demonstration of the company’s values and code of conduct;Strong customer service skills.

Working Conditions:

• Workday often involves long hours and early mornings; flexible schedule;
• Travel ouside of the Lower Mainland including 3 major tours per year;
• Lifting heavy objects on a daily basis – applicants must be able to lift 40lbs to chest level;
• Handling live marine invertebrates and their food;
• Long stretches of time away from home;
• Driving Aquarium vehicles, including a 32’ truck.