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Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote Marine Laboratory participates in E-Verify.
Unless otherwise noted all positions are located in Sarasota, Florida.
As Moteâs graphic designer, you will apply creativity and technical skill to promote and maintain the brand of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, a nonprofit marine science, conservation and education institution whose mission spans the globe. As a member of the Creative Services team within Moteâs Community Relations & Communications (CRC) Department, you will design a wide variety of print and digital media, interface with staff across Mote and external print vendors, help maintain institution-wide brand kits and guidelines, and support the strategic evolution and consistent application of Moteâs visual brand at a time when our institution is growing rapidly.
Position Summary
The Aquarium Veterinary Technician provides veterinary technical support to Mote SEA as part of the Veterinary Services team. The technician supports medical care, diagnostics, and treatment of aquatic animals while working collaboratively with curators and aquarists, who retain responsibility for daily husbandry, exhibit operations, and behavioral management. A strong commitment to animal welfare, clear communication, and effective teamwork within an AZA-accredited framework is essential. Success in this role requires strong veterinary technician skills, excellent attention to detail, clear communication, sound judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams. The ideal candidate is comfortable adapting their skills to a wide variety of species and working in a dynamic aquarium environment where animal care needs can vary from day to day.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Veterinary Technician Responsibilities
Clinical & Medical Support
â Assist veterinarians with physical examinations, diagnostics, anesthesia, treatments, and medical procedures.
â Prepare, administer, and document medications as prescribed by the veterinarian.
â Perform veterinary technical procedures within scope of training and licensure, including venipuncture, fluid therapy, injections, wound care, and bandaging, under veterinary direction.
â Monitor animals during procedures and recovery, recording clinical parameters and observations.
â Assist with emergency medical response and triage in coordination with veterinary staff.
Diagnostics & Laboratory Support
â Collect, process, and prepare biological samples (blood, fecal, cytology) for in-house or external analysis.
â Perform basic laboratory procedures with training and supervision.
â Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and cleanliness.
Medical Records & Regulatory Support
â Maintain accurate medical records, treatment logs, and inventories.
â Support compliance with AZA standards and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
â Follow established biosecurity, infection control, and safety protocols.
Collaboration with Curators & Aquarists:
Interdepartmental Coordination
â Work closely with curators and aquarists to support animal health while respecting defined roles and responsibilities.
â Communicate medical findings, treatment plans, and care considerations to aquarist teams as directed by the veterinarian.
â Coordinate timing of medical procedures with husbandry schedules and exhibit operations.
Supportive Participation
â Provide guidance to aquarists on medical treatments or monitoring as prescribed by the veterinarian.
â Assist with staff training related to medical procedures, animal health monitoring, and safety protocols, in coordination with curators and veterinary staff.
Facilities, Equipment & Hospital Support
â Clean, disinfect, and maintain veterinary equipment and treatment areas.
â Assist with hospital readiness and emergency response preparedness.
â Support quarantine and isolation areas in collaboration with animal care teams.
Professional Development
â Participate in ongoing training.
â Maintain veterinary technician licensure and required continuing education.
â Support AZA accreditation standards and institutional animal welfare goals.
Qualifications:
â Associateâs or Bachelorâs degree in Veterinary Technology is required.
â Credentialed Veterinary Technician (CVT, LVT, or RVT) preferred.
â A minimum of one year’s experience as a full-time Veterinary Technician is required.
â A minimum of one year of aquarium, exotics, zoo, or equivalent experience is preferred.
â Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary animal care team is required.
Physical & Environmental Requirements:
â Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs with assistance.
â Ability to work in wet, humid, and variable environments.
â Availability for rotating weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hours response.
â Requires handling, working with, or exposure to large, potentially dangerous animals, animal diseases, and potentially hazardous chemicals.
Core Competencies:
â Commitment to animal welfare and AZA standards
â Clear communication and adaptability
â Team-oriented mindset
â Attention to detail and accountability
â Willingness to learn and grow professionally
To apply, please submit the following to djones@mote.org or mail to Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before November 13, 2026:
Benefits:
Application Question(s):
Education:
Experience:
Work Location: In person
The Philanthropy Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory will be responsible for securing significant revenue for Mote Marine Laboratory from philanthropic funding sources on Floridaâs east coast. He/She will be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors as well as developing new prospects focused on leadership level giving for the organization. The Philanthropy Officer will report directly to the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and work independently and as part of the Development Team.
To apply, please submit the following to apiekarz@mote.org or mail to Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before November 7, 2026:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category.
The Philanthropy Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory will be responsible for securing significant revenue for Mote Marine Laboratory. He/She will be expected to develop dynamic fundraising strategies focused on engaging, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding an assigned portfolio of major donors as well as developing new prospects focused on leadership level giving for the organization. The Philanthropy Officer will report directly to the Chief Development Officer and work independently and as part of the Development Team.
To apply, please submit the following to apiekarz@mote.org or mail to Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before November 7, 2026:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other protected category.
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow for the Mote Ocean Technology Research Program.
Overview of Fellowship Program: Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellowships are three-year positions providing 100% salary support, funding assistance for equipment/supplies and travel, and office and laboratory space. The Fellowship includes mentorship from a diversity of cross-discipline Mote scientists and administrative assistance for policy issues, grant proposals, contract compliance, and reporting. Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellows are expected to conduct and build their own program that are distinct from and not under the oversight of existing Mote research programs. Exemplary Fellows have been invited to join Mote as a Staff Scientist upon completion of their initial three-year appointment
Mote Marine Laboratory is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow for the Mote Ocean Technology Research Program. This position will assist Mote in moving to the next level of innovation in autonomous and remotely operated vehicles, the next generation of robotics and sensor development, use of artificial intelligence and swarm model algorithms, and citizen science beach condition reporting that will together serve as a new Mote Ocean Technology Center of Excellence. This three-year position provides 100% salary support, research start-up, supplies, equipment, and mentorship. Preferred candidates should have a PhD in a related discipline awarded within the last 5 years and 1-3 years of marine technology research or engineering experience. The ideal candidate will actively secure external funding by writing, submitting, and acquiring competitive research grants to support and expand program initiatives. The position is located at Moteâs main laboratory (1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236) campus but will collaborate across all Moteâs campuses as well as with national and international partners around the world. The incumbent shall assist Mote leadership in establishing the program vision and goals, guiding program finances, crafting government and philanthropic funding proposals, representing Mote at professional forums, and ensuring that all funding deliverables are achieved efficiently and effectively.
Mote envisions significant growth of its existing Ocean Technology Research Program into the Ocean Technology Center of Excellence that will be a cornerstone of the evolution of its current 10-acre Sarasota City Island campus into an International Marine Science, Technology and Innovation Park. The current Mote Ocean Technology Research Program mission is to develop and utilize various forms of cutting-edge sensor and autonomous vehicle technology in conjunction with a wide range of interdisciplinary scientific goals to assist in addressing complex ocean and coastal issues, streamline processes, and monitor the important ecological parameters off the western shores of Florida such as water quality, water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll levels in near real time. Center of Excellence research may include but isnât limited to, sensor development, autonomous and remotely operated vehicles, next generation robotics, and use of swarm model algorithms. It is also expected that the new Ocean Technology Center of Excellence will closely collaborate with the newly launched Mote Artificial Intelligence Marine Science (AIMS) Center and growth of the Mote Beach Condition Reporting System.
The successful candidate will be an innovator for paradigm changing ocean technology impacts in restoring, sustainable use of and conservation of ocean species, habitats and ecosystem, as well as creating intellectual property that will stimulate economic growth in Southwest Florida. The position affords opportunities for hosting visiting scientists, interactions with researchers from multiple disciplines at Mote, and oversight of technicians, student interns, and volunteers. The successful candidate will be selected based on ability to not only strengthen and diversify the Laboratoryâs existing research expertise, but also to establish their own innovative research initiatives that address Moteâs Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.
Mote is celebrating over 70 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. Moteâs ocean and coastal research enterprise has 38 research units, an array of STEM education/outreach efforts, and an aquarium featuring teaching and working laboratories with more than 100 marine species. Mote currently has more than 45 PhD-level scientists, over 400 staff, and approximately 1500 volunteers that are located on its main campus in Sarasota and across additional campuses/facilities including a state-of-the-art 200 acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, a 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys and work was recently completed on a new 145,000 square foot Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA). The Mote scientific expertise is considerable and diverse, and is augmented by more than 150 non-resident scientists from more than 100 different U.S. and international institutions who are involved in projects with Mote all around the world.
Additionally, Mote envisions significant growth in Ocean Technology Research as part of the evolution of its current Sarasota campus into an International Marine Science, Technology and Innovation Park, continued expansion of the Mote Aquaculture Research Park, as well as numerous satellite campuses and outreach posts. Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellows are selected based on their ability to not only strengthen and diversify the Laboratoryâs significant existing research expertise, but also the potential to establish their own innovative research initiatives that address Moteâs Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.
Recent (within last 5 years) PhD graduates are invited to apply. Applicants with a firm expectation of graduation in 2026 will also be considered. This full-time position includes an expected initial annual salary of approximately $70,000 (negotiable depending on experience), health insurance with family options, and other generous benefits including an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, paid leave for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. To apply, please submit:
Questions regarding this position may be sent to Kevin Claridge, Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs at kclaridge@mote.org. Review of applications will begin November 13, 2026 and will continue until position is awarded.
Mote Marine Laboratory (Mote) is seeking candidates for a Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Marine Reef Fisheries Ecology in the Florida Keys.
Overview of Fellowship Program: Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellowships are three-year positions providing 100% salary support, funding assistance for equipment/supplies and travel, and office and laboratory space. The Fellowship includes mentorship from a diversity of cross-discipline Mote scientists and administrative assistance for policy issues, grant proposals, contract compliance, and reporting. Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellows are expected to conduct and build their own program that are distinct from and not under the oversight of existing Mote research programs. Exemplary Fellows have been invited to join Mote as a Staff Scientist upon completion of their initial three-year appointment.
This Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellowship position will focus on establishing an independent Mote research program with emphasis on fisheries directly related to coral reef restoration and artificial reef creation in the Florida Keys. Such a research program would be expected to build upon applied research knowledge on anthropogenic and global ocean impacts to the Florida Keys coral reef ecosystem, with research leading to fisheries resource management decisions. This position will complement current research activities within the Mote Fisheries Ecology and Enhancement Research Program, the Mote Fisheries Habitat Ecology and Acoustics Research Program, and the Mote Coral Reef Restoration Research Program, as well as coordinate closely with federal, state, and local government and resource managers to achieve tangible results.
The postdoctoral fellow will work with Mote fisheries and coral research and restoration teams to better understand fisheries population dynamics as well as independently lead, design, and conduct laboratory and field-based experiments that test and provide options for improvements in fish habitat. Over the next several years, Mote will be undertaking significant cross-cutting evolution of several existing research programs to assist this specific research fellowship.
The Fellowship will be primarily based at the Moteâs Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration at 2422 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key, FL 33042, however, the position will coordinate office and lab space across all of Moteâs campuses.
Mote is celebrating over 70 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. Moteâs ocean and coastal research enterprise has 38 research units, an array of STEM education/outreach efforts, and an aquarium featuring teaching and working laboratories with more than 100 marine species. Mote currently has more than 45 PhD-level scientists, over 300 staff, and approximately 1500 volunteers that are located on its main campus in Sarasota and across additional campuses/facilities including a state-of-the-art 200 acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, a 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys and work was recently completed on a new 145,000 square foot Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA). The Mote scientific expertise is considerable and diverse, and is augmented by more than 150 non-resident scientists from more than 100 different U.S. and international institutions who are involved in projects with Mote all around the world.
Additionally, Mote envisions significant growth in Marine Reef Fisheries Ecology Research as part of the evolution of its current Sarasota campus into an International Marine Science, Technology and Innovation Park, continued expansion of the Mote Aquaculture Research Park, as well as numerous satellite campuses and outreach posts. The position also affords the opportunity for hosting visiting scientists, interactions with researchers from multiple disciplines at Mote, and oversight of student interns and volunteers. Mote Postdoctoral Research Fellows are selected based on their ability to not only strengthen and diversify the Laboratoryâs significant existing research expertise, but also the potential to establish their own innovative research initiatives that address Moteâs Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.
Recent (2023 and more recent) PhD graduates are invited to apply. Applicants with a firm expectation of graduation in 2026 will also be considered. This full-time position includes an expected initial annual salary of approximately $70,000 (negotiable depending on experience), health insurance with family options, and other generous benefits including an opt-in retirement plan with employer matching, leaves for holidays, illness, and vacation, and other benefits. To apply, please submit:
Applications should be submitted by selecting âMarine Reef Fisheries Postdoctoral Research Fellowshipâ at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Questions regarding this position may be sent to Kevin Claridge, Vice President of Sponsored Research and Coastal Policy Programs at kclaridge@mote.org. Review of applications will begin November 1, 2026 and will continue until position is awarded.
This position requires a dedicated, self-motivated and detail oriented individual to work as
part of the Aquarium Dive Operations team. This position reports to the Aquarium Dive Safety Officer (DSO),
to administrate and facilitate safe diving operations within the aquarium at Mote Science Education
Aquarium. The main focus of the Guest Immersion Guide/ Maintenance Diver is to perform and assist with
the Mote Science and Education Aquarium Guest Immersion Program dives and work directly in partnership
with the Dive Officer to perform daily tasks such as, but not limited to: participate in aquarium maintenance
dives, dive gear cleaning, dive record keeping, assist and perform in other tasks as needed.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified.
General Duties:
This position requires a dedicated, self-motivated and detail oriented individual to work as part of the Aquarium Dive Operations team. This position reports to the Aquarium Dive Safety Officer (DSO), to administrate and facilitate safe diving operations within the aquarium at Mote Science Education Aquarium. The main focus of the Maintenance Diver is to work directly in partnership with the Dive Officer to perform daily tasks such as, but not limited to: participate in aquarium maintenance dives, dive gear cleaning, dive record keeping, perform and assist with the Guest Immersion Program dives and, assist and perform in other daily operational tasks as needed.
The normal work week for a full-time employee is considered to be 40 hours; however greater emphasis is placed on meeting the responsibilities assigned to the position rather than on working a specified number of hours.
Normal hours are a 9 hour shift with one hour for unpaid lunch. Start and end times may vary by day based on the needs of the program. Evening, weekend and holiday shifts will be expected. Occasional longer daily hours or evening hours may be required to complete specific tasks.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified.
Primary responsibility of the Events Manager is to plan, execute, and oversee Moteâs Internal diverse portfolio of events. Facilities where internal events are held include, Mote SEA, City Island, MAP, Tallahassee locations. The Event Manager is responsible to serve as the primary operational liaison for internal departments and external partners/vendors. This includes working closely with Deep Blue Hospitality, Mote SEA’s exclusive catering partner, to coordinate coastal, environmentally responsible event dining. The Events Manager works closely with other internal departments to execute the outlined goal.
Regular office hours Monday through Friday with the understanding that flexibility is required to provide coverage for events after hours (some late into the evening) and weekends. Due to the nature of this position weekend, holiday and evening or early morning duty will often be required. Comp time is provided.
Non Exempt
First Aid and CPR certified or willing to attain within 3 months of hire date. 3+ years of event management experience.
Bachelorâs degree required.
*The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified.
Serves as a primary resource for sponsored programs administration and provides comprehensive pre-award and post-award support to Principal Investigators (PIs), project teams, and organizational departments throughout the full lifecycle of sponsored projects. Supports proposal development, award setup, financial and administrative management, compliance, sub-award and subcontract administration, reporting, and project closeout. Serves as a liaison between PIs, internal Office of Operations functions, and funding and awarding agencies to facilitate accurate, timely, compliant, and effective administration of sponsored projects.
This position is primarily based at the organization’s main City Island campus, with occasional travel to remote organizational locations, as needed, to perform assigned duties and provide operational support.
The Chief Executive Assistant to the President & CEO plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the executive office at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This position is responsible for directly supporting the President & CEO as well as managing the day-to-day administrative functions and enhancing organizational effectiveness of the Executive Office and staff. The ideal candidate will possess a hands-on approach, exceptional organizational skills, and excellent time management skills. The Chief Executive Assistant serves as a trusted point of contact, combining an approachable communication style with sound judgment and executive-level professionalism.
The Chief Executive Assistant will work on site in a dynamic, very fast-paced office environment at Mote Marine Laboratoryâs City Island Sarasota main campus. Flexibility in hours may be required to accommodate the needs of the President & CEO, including occasional evening and weekend events. This role may also involve some travel for meetings and conferences. Regular business hours are Monday thru Friday from 8:00am-5:00pm. The President & CEO Office maintains a polished but relaxed Business Casual attire.
Founded in 1955, Mote Marine Laboratory is an independent, non-profit marine research facility dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of marine ecosystems. Mote operates locally from 10 campuses located in Sarasota and the Florida Keys, and research is conducted globally by our marine scientists and educators. Through innovative research, education, and outreach efforts showcased in our new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), Mote engages the community and promotes awareness about the ocean’s vital role in our planet’s health and well-being. Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge and support the next generation of marine scientists, educators and conservationists.
Qualified candidates please provide a cover letter with comprehensive resume or CV including three references. References will not be contacted without the candidateâs prior notification.
Submit via email to: Human Resources – exec@mote.org
Please include âMote CEAâ in the subject line
Or email to: Human Resources â CEA
Mote Marine Laboratory
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota FL 34236
Submissions will be reviewed beginning September 1, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled.
Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its work force. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender identify, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote Marine Laboratory participates in E-Verify.
Mote is seeking a full-time senior level researcher to lead the current Mote Ocean Technology Research Program to the next level of innovation focused on autonomous and remotely operated vehicles, next generation robotics and sensor development, and use of artificial intelligence and swarm model algorithms that will together serve as an Ocean Technology Center of Excellence to support research and science education across the institution and beyond. Preferred candidates should have a PhD in a related discipline and over 10 years of marine technology research or engineering related experience, a strong publication record, established network of collaborators, significant history of successful grantsmanship, and proven research program leadership skills. The position is located at Moteâs main laboratory (1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236) campus but will collaborate across Moteâs nine campuses as well as national and international partners around the world. The incumbent establishes the program vision and goals, manages staff, guides program finances, crafts government and philanthropic funding proposals, represents Mote at professional forums, and ensures that all funding deliverables are achieved efficiently and effectively.
Program Overview
Mote envisions significant growth of its existing program into the Ocean Technology Center of Excellence that will be a cornerstone of the evolution of its current 10.5 acre Sarasota City Island campus into an International Marine Science, Technology and Innovation Park. The current Mote Ocean Technology Research Program mission is to develop and utilize various forms of cutting-edge sensor and autonomous vehicle technology in conjunction with a wide range of interdisciplinary scientific goals to assist in addressing complex ocean and coastal issues, streamline processes, and monitor the important ecological parameters off the western shores of Florida such as water quality, water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll levels in near real time. Center of Excellence research may include but isnât limited to, sensor development, autonomous and remotely operated vehicles, next generation robotics, and use of swarm model algorithms. It is also expected that the new Ocean Technology Center of Excellence will closely collaborate with the newly launched Mote Artificial Intelligence Marine Science (AIMS) Center. The successful candidate will be an innovator for paradigm changing ocean technology impacts in restoring, sustainable utilizing and conserving ocean species, habitats and ecosystem, as well as creating intellectual property that will stimulate economic growth in southwest Florida. The position affords opportunities for hosting visiting scientists, interactions with researchers from multiple disciplines at Mote, and oversight of postdoctoral fellows, student interns and volunteers. The successful candidate will be selected based on ability to not only strengthen and diversify the Laboratoryâs existing research expertise, but also to establish their own innovative research initiatives that address Moteâs Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.
Mote Background:
In 2025, Mote is celebrating 70 years as one of the few remaining independent, non-profit international marine research laboratories. Moteâs ocean and coastal research enterprise has 39 Research Programs and Centers, an array of STEM education/outreach efforts, and an aquarium featuring teaching and working laboratories with more than 100 marine species. Mote currently has more than 40 PhD-level scientists, over 300 staff, and approximately 1500 volunteers that are located on its main campus in Sarasota and across eight additional campuses/facilities including a state-of-the-art 200 acre marine and freshwater aquaculture research park, a 19,000 square foot International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys and a new 145,000 square foot Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) that will open in 2025. Mote scientific expertise is considerable and diverse, and is augmented by more than 150 non-resident scientists from more than 100 different U.S. and international institutions who are involved in projects with Mote all around the world.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $150,000.00 – $180,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Schedule: 8 hour shift
Work Location: In person
Expected hours: 40 per week
Ability to Commute: Sarasota, FL 34236 (Required)
Ability to Relocate: Sarasota, FL 34236: Relocate before starting work (Required)
To Apply: Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing â2026 Ocean Technology Program Manager” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other
The Upper Keys Captain is a support position responsible for the safe operation, upkeep, and readiness of vessels, trailers, vehicles, and related equipment used in Mote Marine Laboratoryâs research efforts throughout the Upper Florida Keys.
In addition to marine operations, the Captain assists with general facility maintenance, repairs, and special projects as assigned. This position ensures that marine and facility assets are maintained in safe, functional condition and that operational needs are met efficiently and reliably. The Captain must maintain strong, proactive communication and coordination with the Upper Keys Captain & Facilities Supervisor, the Regional Manager, and the Upper Keys Field Operations Coordinator to ensure that marine operations, facility maintenance, and field support activities are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Moteâs restoration and research goals in the Upper Keys.
â Operate Mote vessels (24â36 ft) in support of staff transport, equipment delivery, and scientific diving activities.
â Conduct routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic repairs on vessels, trailers, and associated marine equipment.
â Support safe trailering, launching, recovery, and fueling of vessels in accordance with Moteâs protocols. â Ensure vessel safety gear is present, functioning, and compliant with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
â Monitor weather and sea conditions to support safe operational decision-making.
â Maintain vessel logs, checklists, and inventory of marine-related tools and materials.
â Clean vessels, gear, and equipment after use, and ensure all items are properly stowed to maintain operational readiness.
â During idle time (e.g., while divers are underwater), maintain a safe and organized deck by stowing items neatly and upholding a tidy work environment. Vehicle & Equipment Support
â Perform basic maintenance on trucks, trailers, and other operational vehicles (e.g., fluid checks, tire inspections, battery service).
â Assist with equipment loading/unloading and transport of supplies and materials between facilities and field sites. Facility Support
â Perform general building and property maintenance, including carpentry, painting, plumbing, and light construction tasks.
â Assist with upkeep of outdoor workspaces, tools, fencing, gates, and storage areas.
â Support special projects as assigned, including infrastructure improvements and operational upgrades.
â Contribute to weather preparedness activities, including securing marine and facility assets in advance of storm events.
â Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas and participate in site-wide upkeep activities.
Minimum Qualifications
â High school diploma or equivalent.
â Valid Florida driverâs license with a clean driving record.
â Authorization to work in the United States.
â Valid U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) License or higher required. â Ability to lift and carry up to 70 lbs safely.
â Proficiency in vessel trailering, launching, recovery, and safe operation.
â Working knowledge of small engine and trailer maintenance. â Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding conditions.
â Comfortable working on ladders, platforms, docks, and marine vessels.
â Strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
â Must complete a vessel checkout and skills assessment to demonstrate safe operation, trailering proficiency, and familiarity with Mote procedures prior to independent use of vessels.
Preferred Qualifications
â Experience operating and maintaining small workboats in coastal or nearshore environments.
â Familiarity with coral reef environments, marine fieldwork, or restoration operations.
â Basic facilities skills (e.g., carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, or general construction).
â SCUBA certification (minimum Open Water; Rescue or Dive Professional preferred).
â Experience with workshop tools, fabrication, or facility support systems. Work Schedule and Conditions
â Regular schedule is Monday through Friday.
â Flexibility is required to support operational priorities, field activities, emergencies, weather events, and time-sensitive project needs, including occasional weekends, holidays, or extended hours.
â Position is based in the Upper Florida Keys and may support multiple field sites, nursery facilities, and collaborative initiatives.
Department: Operations/Facilities
Employment Status: Regular, Full-time (including benefits
The Guest Services Associate serves as a first point of contact for Mote Science Education Aquarium guests.This position is responsible for a variety of guest service operations including daily ticketing and memberships, warmly greeting and assisting guests, and operating guest experiences such as Virtual Reality and Stingray Feeding. The Guest Services Associate will interact with guests and provide exceptional customer service with the goal of exceeding guest expectations for their visit.
Job Responsibilities:
Working Hours:
Normal working hours for a full time employee is 8:30am-5pm, with a half hour unpaid lunch. A normal work week is 30-40 hours. Must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Normal working hours for a part time employee is either 8:30am-5pm, three days a week or 9:15am-
5pm four days a week. A normal work week is 20-29 hours. Must be available to work weekends and
holidays. Part time and Full time positions for Guest Services Associate are available.
Qualifications:
The ideal team member will be:
Supervision: This position reports to the Manager of Guest Services
Labor Category:Non Exempt (Federal Fair Labor Standards Act)
To Apply:
Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing â2025 Guest Services Associate (Nathan Benderson Park Campus” at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other
