Operations Manager, Intern and Volunteer Engagement

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all backgrounds into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.

Priority deadline for applications is 05/1/2026. Due to the volume of incoming applications, the role may be closed earlier than 05/1/2026.

Job Summary: 

Under limited supervision, provide leadership in operational and program support for Volunteer and Intern programs; perform analytics, facilitate training, facilitate the development and recruitment of new volunteer/intern opportunities, provide tracking for various programs (e.g., scheduling, training, etc.), coordinate plan updates, represent Volunteer/Intern programs on various internal committees, perform other duties as required.

Core Activities:                                                                                                                                  

• Implement new volunteer/intern initiatives, engaging volunteers/interns from underrepresented groups and providing placements in assignments and departments throughout the Aquarium.
• Develop new programs for volunteers/interns and MBA staff who work with them (e.g., recognition, cultural competence, etc…)
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures.
• Analyze the effectiveness of Volunteer/Intern Engagement programs (e.g., retention rates, survey results, demographic data, etc.)
• Assess training needs, design training, and monitor completion of training requirements for volunteer/intern supervisors in each Division/Department area, in collaboration Learning and Engagement colleagues.
• Create new volunteer/intern positions in collaboration with Aquarium staff.
• Assess volunteer/intern assignments and design to mitigate the risks associated with the program or service, in collaboration with the Safety Team and using the MBA Safety Matrix.
• Represent volunteer/intern on appropriate Aquarium committees (e.g., Safety, DEIA, etc.), strengthening the position of volunteer/intern engagement.
• Analyze and evaluate day-to-day operational processes and systems to ensure efficient and timely completion of tasks and ensure smooth business operations. Implement modifications for improvement, as necessary.
• Create reporting and analytics to inform strategic decisions and provide visibility into goals, progress, and obstacles to our key initiatives.
• Design collaborative processes (e.g., brainstorming, feedback and decision-making sessions, workshops, creative development, and retrospective reviews) to support innovation and continuous improvement in volunteer/intern engagement.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

• Bachelor’s Degree in behavioral sciences, business management, personnel or volunteer administration, or equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• Prior experience in supervision of staff
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience working with volunteers
• Demonstrated abilities as a project manager
• Demonstrated ability to make sound, well informed decisions
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with persons from diverse backgrounds, ethnic groups, and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Proven knowledge of group process, conflict resolution, and team partnership skills
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Strong technology background, including experience in database management, Survey Monkey (or other instrument for survey design), Excel, and PowerPoint
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships, both internal and external
• Ability to foster cooperative and effective teamwork
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to access and use appropriate and effective communication tools and techniques
• Ability to work within and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Core Values

Annual Compensation Range:
$77,700 - $96,000 USD annually. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.