Turtle Survival Center Chelonian Husbandry Intern

Turtle Survival Alliance•Cross, SC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) offers a full-time internship at its Turtle Survival Center (TSC) in Cross, South Carolina, providing hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations of a nonprofit chelonian conservation center. The internship includes an introductory course in chelonian husbandry and conservation. Interns learn fundamental principles of chelonian care and conservation while working with a collection of more than 800 turtles and tortoises representing more than 25 critically endangered species. Interns work independently and alongside TSC staff to meet the center’s operational needs. The internship includes practical animal care, monitoring and recordkeeping, facility and grounds maintenance, conservation-related learning, and opportunities to assist with outreach and veterinary procedures. Attendance is mandatory: interns must complete 300 training hours within no more than 90 days. The schedule is roughly 7–8 hours per day, five days per week, though days, weekends, and holidays may be scheduled and occasional workdays may exceed eight hours. The internship is a volunteer position. Interns pay their own travel expenses to and from the center. A monthly stipend of $1,500 is available to interns who are not receiving support from their institution. On-site housing is available and interns are encouraged to live there for the duration of the internship. Start dates are available from May through August; dates may be flexible, but applicants must be available for at least 90 days. Extensions are considered case by case.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Hold or be pursuing a degree in biology, ecology, conservation, zookeeping, exotic veterinary medicine, or a related field.
Positive and flexible attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to adapt to a changing work environment.
Demonstrated interest in wildlife and conservation.
Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle.
Ability to pass a background check.
Ability to lift 50 pounds and spend most working hours on their feet.
Ability to complete 300 training hours within a maximum period of 90 days.

Nice To Haves

Animal husbandry experience, particularly with reptiles, is preferred.
Applicants are encouraged to live in on-site housing throughout the internship and follow house rules.

Responsibilities

Provide high standards of animal husbandry to a diverse group of critically endangered chelonians.
Monitor animal health and behavior and gather and evaluate relevant information.
Keep accurate records.
Maintain cleanliness of animal areas.
Assist with chelonian propagation, egg care, and incubation.
Observe veterinary care procedures and basic animal medical treatments.
Perform general facility maintenance and upkeep of grounds and buildings.
Assist with horticulture and gardening, particularly in animal areas.
Assist with enclosure design and construction.
Interact with other interns, volunteers, students, visiting biologists, and guests.
Participate in outreach events and guest tours of the facility.
Help ensure facility security.
Complete reading assignments and related assessments.
Prepare and give a presentation to interns and staff about a chelonian species and its natural history.