Advanced Marine Mammal intern

Clearwater Marine Aquarium • Clearwater, FL

11d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an unpaid internship intended for previous interns to advance their knowledge and experience beyond the basic internship. The Advanced Marine Mammal internship at Clearwater Marine Aquarium is designed to give individuals an advanced educational experience into what it takes to gain a career caring for marine animals, with emphasis on Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, North American river otters, pinnipeds, great white pelicans, and rough toothed dolphins. Advanced Marine Mammal Interns support the goals and objectives of the marine mammal program by observing, learning and then demonstrating various skills under the supervision of the marine mammal team including but not limited to: diet preparation, animal observations, data collection, data analysis, providing exceptional guest experience through daily interactions, narrations on a microphone, hosting guest interaction programs, cleanliness of the facility, maintaining and designing animal habitats and basic animal care skills. Length of the program is a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 6 months, working 30hrs per week.

Requirements

• Seeking or recently completed a four-year degree in psychology, biology, marine biology or another related field preferred
• Prefer that advanced internship begins the semester immediately following completion of regular internship (if still enrolled in college/university)
• Completed the Marine Mammal internship program with an above average rating within the past two semesters (ex: regular intern in summer 2023 can begin advanced internship up until summer 2024)
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification preferred
• SCUBA Certification preferred
• Great time-management skills with ability to plan, organize, and multi-task
• Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated and disciplined with excellent work ethics while also working in a team environment
• Strong communication skills with clear, friendly, and effective verbal and nonverbal communication

Responsibilities

• Share knowledge of Clearwater Marine Aquarium, natural history, and biographies of resident animals with guests
• Expand on basic knowledge of animal behavior and record on designated observation shifts, assist staff members with data collection and data analyzing
• Observe, learn and demonstrate basic animal care skills as deemed fit by the marine mammal staff members
• Provide support for opening, daily, and closing of the facility
• Provide exceptional guest experience through daily interactions, narrations on a microphone, and hosting guest interaction programs
• Follow all USDA policies and procedures to ensure a clean, safe environment for our animals
• Provide a safe working environment for animals, team members, and guests by abiding by all safety policies and procedures
• Observe, learn, and demonstrate mentoring skills for new volunteers and interns

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern