Fish and Invertebrates Intern

Mississippi Aquarium • Gulfport, MS

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This position requires a highly motivated individual who will take direction from the Curator, Supervisor, and Animal Care Staff in assisting with the animal care routine and maintenance for the fish, aquatic reptile, and invertebrate area. As an intern, you can expect to get hands-on experience in the daily care of our fresh and saltwater aquariums and learn what it takes to be an aquarist. Throughout the internship, interns will learn various tasks for the daily operation of multiple fresh and saltwater systems; gain valuable knowledge in water chemistry, aquarium life support systems, aquatic biology, and quarantine systems; and develop skills in time management, communication, and teamwork. The position will also be responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards. The goal is to help interns succeed professionally in any chosen field. Note:  Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs.  Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the Intern for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

• Ability to work full-time, at least 2 days per week, for 16 weeks
• Ability to perform physically demanding job duties daily
• Daily interaction with fellow team members and the public
• Excellent observation and communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that sustain a positive and professional environment
• A valid driver’s license and ability to travel to and from work
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and possible late hours
• Ability to find and secure housing for the duration of the internship
• Ability to work with and around various fish and crustaceans
• 18 years of age or older
• Enrolled in or recent graduate of a four-year college program in biology, marine biology, or another related field
• Applicants should consider themselves hardworking, dedicated, and reliable.

Nice To Haves

• Previous animal care experience, such as volunteering at an animal shelter or completing other animal care internships preferred

Responsibilities

• Assists animal care staff in the overall daily care of the freshwater and saltwater fish, aquatic reptile, and invertebrate collection
• Performs proper animal diet preparation
• Keeps support areas clean, organized, and safe
• Builds knowledge of water chemistry and aquarium life support systems
• Supports educational presentations through formal and informal public speaking opportunities
• Ensures guest satisfaction by delivering exceptional customer service
• Complies with all standard operating procedures (SOPs) pertaining to daily operations and safety
• Promotes conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks
• Undertakes special projects as assigned by manager(s)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern