Job Description
Position Summary The Community Engagement Specialist for the Upper Florida Keys supports Mote Marine Laboratory's mission by executing community-facing outreach, events, tours, and public engagement activities that increase public awareness and understanding of Mote's research, conservation, and restoration efforts focused on coral reef ecosystems in the region.This position plays a key role in representing Mote at public-facing activities and fostering meaningful connections between Mote's work and the local community.The Community Engagement Specialist reports to the Community Engagement & Marketing Coordinator and works closely with program staff and internal teams to support outreach activities aligned with regional priorities and institutional messaging. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Community Outreach & Public Engagement ? Support Mote Marine Laboratory's mission by delivering community-facing outreach and engagement activities that promote awareness of Mote's research, conservation, and restoration efforts, including the Protect Our Reefs (POR) license plate and grant program.? Execute public-facing events, tours, tabling opportunities, presentations, and outreach activities in the Upper Florida Keys and surrounding region.? Serve as an on-site representative of Mote at community events, festivals, meetings, and partner activities, providing accurate, engaging, and mission-aligned information to diverse audiences.? Support guided tours, site visits, and public programs at Mote facilities or partner locations, as directed by the Community Engagement & Marketing Coordinator. Event Logistics & Coordination ? Assist with planning, logistics, setup, and breakdown for outreach events and activities, including coordinating materials, displays, signage, outreach supplies, and equipment.? Coordinate with internal staff, volunteers, and partners, as appropriate, to support successful outreach and engagement activities.? Maintain outreach materials, displays, and supplies to ensure readiness for scheduled events and activities. Content Support & Reporting ? Collect photos, short-form video, and basic content from outreach activities to support marketing, communications, and reporting needs, as directed.? Track outreach activities, attendance, and basic engagement metrics, and provide timely reporting to the Community Engagement & Marketing Coordinator. Compliance, Safety & Professional Conduct ? Ensure all outreach activities adhere to Mote's brand standards, messaging guidance, scientific accuracy requirements, safety protocols, and applicable permitting or access requirements.? Maintain a professional, positive, and mission-focused presence when interacting with the public, partners, volunteers, and stakeholders.? Support additional outreach initiatives or special projects as assigned. Physical & Environmental Requirements ? Ability to stand for extended periods during events, tours, and outreach activities.? Ability to lift, carry, and transport outreach materials and equipment (up to approximately 40 lbs).? Ability to work outdoors in hot, humid, and variable weather conditions, including exposure to sun, heat, rain, and marine environments.? Comfortable working around public audiences, outdoor event settings, and active facilities. Minimum Qualifications ? High school diploma or equivalent.? Valid Florida driver's license with a clean driving record.? Authorization to work in the United States.? Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.? Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and ability to represent an organization in public-facing settings.? Ability to follow direction, work collaboratively within a team, and manage assigned tasks effectively. Preferred Qualifications ? Associate's or Bachelor's degree in communications, environmental science, marine science, education, marketing, or a related field.? Experience supporting community outreach, public engagement, education, events, or customer-facing programs.? Familiarity with environmental, marine, or conservation-focused organizations or initiatives.? Experience assisting with tours, public programs, or informal education activities.? Basic photography or video experience for documentation or outreach purposes.? Comfort speaking to groups and interacting with the public in a professional setting. Work Schedule and Conditions ? Work schedule may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays to support outreach events, tours, and program activities.? Position is based in the Upper Florida Keys and requires local travel to support outreach activities and events.? Role involves a mix of indoor and outdoor work,