Program Coordinator

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

The UGA Marine Institute ( UGAMI) is a world-renowned field destination that supports research and education in coastal ecosystems. The Marine Institute is located on Sapelo Island, GA, accessible only via ferry.

Hours will typically be 40 a week, however the hours will be very irregular. Evening and early hours due to the ferry schedule are expected to assist arriving and departing groups throughout the weekdays and weekends, plus other needs as they arise. Must be able to manage hours well.

Please be sure to include all required attachments. Applications will be accepted until position filled, so you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For full consideration apply by March 21, 2025.

Note: this position is located on the coast of Georgia at Sapelo Island, NOT Athens. This job requires living on Sapelo, a barrier island accessible only by small boat or state-operated ferry (you'll be issued a pass for the ferry). On-site housing is available at UGAMI.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

See knowledge, skills and abilities section.
Customer service/hospitality experience preferred.
Familiarity with typical office software and social media platforms preferred.
Background in biology or related science plus relevant field station experience preferred.

The person in this position coordinates all aspects of the visitor experience at the UGA Marine Institute, from booking reservations to facilitating visits to supporting education and outreach. The person in this position serves on the UGAMI leadership team. This position requires irregular hours and residency on Sapelo Island (housing is available at UGAMI).

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Visitor Reservations - Schedule all visitors to the institute. Respond promptly and professionally to email and other inquiries; maintain up-to-date bookings calendar; complete ferry reservations; ensure paperwork is complete (including visitor request forms, liability waivers); coordinate housing and vehicles; maintain accurate and complete records for invoicing and performance metrics (e.g., number, origin, purpose of visit, facilities usage).

Facilitate Visits - Arrange to meet visitors at the ferry and make sure they have housing, vehicles, and other requirements met (e.g. lab space, boat trawl, etc.); provide in-person orientations to go over UGAMI policies and procedures; provide tours of facilities; help arrange on-Island activities (e.g., Island tours; meals); provide logistical support for group meals and ensure kitchen permits are maintained and personnel are appropriately trained; manage complaints; assist with queries; be available to groups for ad hoc support as needed (including nights and weekends).

Education and Outreach - Be able to speak knowledgeably about UGAMI history, research and educational activities; contribute to UGAMI website and other social media communications; write regular e-mails regarding upcoming visits; maintain staff and visitor listservs; help coordinate special events.

Administrative Support - Serve on the UGAMI leadership team; work with the director to implement visitor policy; coordinate visits with facilities manager, lab manager and housekeeping; help with planning and projection of facilities use. Assist with gift shop; help host special visitors; other duties as needed.