Marine Science Assistant & Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator

We are privileged to learn, work, and live on the traditional territory of the SC’IȺNEW Nation. 

Pearson College UWC stands as a beacon of hope and education, founded in 1974 with a vision to make education a force that unites people, nations, and cultures for peace and a sustainable future. Our mission is deeply rooted in this vision, striving to empower students from diverse backgrounds to actively engage in creating a better world. 

At Pearson, we are more than just an educational institution; we are a vibrant community of passionate individuals committed to fostering global understanding and positive change. As one of 18 United World Colleges around the world, our students undergo a rigorous selection process in their home countries. They are chosen not only for their academic potential but also for their demonstrated dedication to making a meaningful impact on the world.

Moreover, the majority of our students receive substantial financial aid, ensuring that opportunities for transformative education are accessible to all.  

Pearson College UWC is seeking an outstanding Marine Science Assistant & Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator to join our Faculty team.

Reporting to:   Deputy Head of College, Academics

Position Summary:

The Marine Science Assistant & Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator plays a crucial role in facilitating the Colleges’ Marine Science programs and the Race Rocks experiential learning activities.

Are you passionate about making marine science and other water-based activities come alive for students? As our Marine Science Assistant & Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator, you will be a driving force behind every marine-based field trip, lab session, and coastal expedition, helping ensure every detail from risk assessments and logistics, to gear prep and assisting with activities. This role also helps to support and expand the College’s kayaking, sailing, and paddling activities, as our marine environment provides an incredible backdrop for student learning and exploration. Finally, this position is responsible for renewing and expanding our weekend immersions at Race Rocks, a unique ecological reserve where Pearson College provides eco-guardianship. Your dedication to student safety, trip coordination, and hands‑on support in both the classroom and field settings will help transform our marine science and water‑based programming into unforgettable learning and experiences for our students..

Main Responsibilities:

Marine Science Assistant Duties: 

• Arrange transportation, such as buses and boats, and organize meal orders for field trips.
• Ensure all necessary gear and equipment are prepared and organized before and after field trips.
• Provide support to faculty and students during fieldwork and outdoor educational activities.
• Develop and write risk assessments for all field outings.
• Prepare, set up, and maintain laboratory equipment and materials.
• Help students to gather materials for Internal Assessments (IAs) and assist students with their practical work in both lab and field settings.
• Prepare and reset laboratory spaces after use.
• Care for marine species in the seawater table by cleaning, feeding animals, and collecting their food.
• Ensure the seawater table system is functioning properly, including resetting equipment after power outages.
• Assist with managing students who have the seawater table as their student jobs.
• Oversee the return of marine animals at the end of each term.
• Dive to collect species for the seawater table and IAs.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall operations of the College.

Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator Duties:

• Arrange and manage transportation and logistical needs for trips to Race Rocks, including those occurring over weekends.
• Write and update risk assessments to guarantee that all experiences are safe and educational.
• Oversee groups of up to eight students during overnight excursions.
• Execute and assist with the Marine Science Race Rocks programs from Friday through Sunday.
• Work evenings, weekends and during experiential/CAS weeks, particularly for Race Rocks programming and field excursions.
• In the event of a Race Rocks closure, the Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator position will assume other duties as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall operations of the College.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Education, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with other educational backgrounds will be considered if they demonstrate relevant experience and strong competencies aligned with the role.
• Experience or strong interest in marine science, environmental education, or outdoor experiential learning.
• Previous experience working with youth in educational settings is an asset.
• Experience working in outdoor, field, and marine environments.
• Must possess an up-to-date diving certification, a current First Aid certification (preferably Wilderness First Aid), and an SVOP license (or ability to obtain).
• Certifications or experience in watersports such as kayaking, paddling, or sailing are considered assets.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a British Columbia Class 4 driver’s license is an asset.
• Strong organizational, logistical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds.

Compensation & Organization

This is a position located at Pearson College UWC in Metchosin, approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria.  The salary for this position is $20,000 per contract term for the Marine Science Assistant role (approximately 15 hours per week), along with an additional $5,000 stipend for the Race Rocks Student Program Facilitator position (averaging about 5 hours per week). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and reviewed daily. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada and pass a criminal record check. Résumés and a cover letter can be emailed to [email protected].

As an inherent part of our United World College values, Pearson College UWC is actively committed to Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in our living, learning, and work environments. In pursuit of our values, we seek individuals who will work respectfully and constructively with differences and across levels of privilege and power. 

We encourage applications from individuals belonging to minority groups, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and those with diverse backgrounds or experiences. Your unique perspective is valued and contributes to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.