Discovery Pier is seeking an innovative, collaborative, and entrepreneurial Education Program Manager to lead the development and growth of Freshwater Futures, our flagship freshwater education initiative serving students in grades 6–12.
This newly created position offers a unique opportunity to build one of the nation's most innovative freshwater education programs while helping establish the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center as a regional hub for freshwater science, education, workforce development, and public engagement.
Working closely with Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and its Great Lakes Water Studies Institute (GLWSI), the Education Program Manager will connect students with scientists, educators, researchers, and industry professionals through engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire careers in freshwater science and marine technology.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, implementation, and continual improvement of the Freshwater Futures education initiative.
- Develop engaging, standards-aligned curriculum and experiential learning opportunities focused on freshwater science, Great Lakes stewardship, marine technology, and related careers.
- Expand the successful Discovering Careers in Marine Technology program in partnership with NMC's Great Lakes Water Studies Institute.
- Collaborate with GLWSI faculty, local schools, researchers, industry partners, and community organizations to deliver authentic classroom, laboratory, and field experiences.
- Coordinate Discovery Pier's established education programs, including All Aboard! and Discover Fishing at the Pier.
- Support educational programming for the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center, including docent training and educational content development.
- Evaluate program outcomes, assist with grant reporting, and help build sustainable educational partnerships and funding opportunities.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Education, Science Education, Environmental Education, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related field.
- Minimum five years of experience developing and delivering educational programming.
- Experience working with middle and high school students.
- Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills.
- Ability to build collaborative relationships with educators, researchers, volunteers, and community partners.
Preferred
- Experience developing STEM curriculum.
- Knowledge of Great Lakes ecology, freshwater science, environmental education, or marine technology.
- Experience working with nonprofit organizations, museums, science centers, or higher education institutions.
- Volunteer management and grant reporting experience.
Why Join Discovery Pier?
This is an opportunity to help shape a nationally recognized freshwater education program that prepares the next generation of scientists, engineers, technicians, and environmental leaders. Working alongside Discovery Pier, Northwestern Michigan College, and the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute, you will help inspire thousands of students while strengthening the future freshwater workforce throughout the Great Lakes region.
View the full position description at discoverypier.org/jobs
To apply, submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. on August 20, 2026.
Pay: $57,500.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
