Sea Turtle E.E. Just Fellow, Fall 2026

SC AQUARIUM • Charleston, SC

8h

About The Position

The E.E. Just Fellowship at the South Carolina Aquarium is a workforce development program aimed at increasing diversity in the aquarium and conservation fields. In tribute to African American biologist and Charleston native Ernest Everett Just (1883-1941), the program seeks to increase pathways to science careers for HBCU college students and recent HBCU college graduates with coursework or degrees focused on marine science, biology, natural sciences, or animal science who have a passion for conservation and species preservation. The Sea Turtle Care Center Fellowship is best suited for graduating or recent alumni with an interest in pursuing a career in animal rehabilitation and veterinary care.

Sea Turtle Care Center Fellows have the opportunity to learn about and participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native sea turtle species. Fellows will assist staff in all aspects of the daily care of sick and injured sea turtles, occasional medical procedures, and educational programs. The overall goal of our fellowship program is to help fellows learn the ins and outs of sea turtle rehabilitation to help prepare for a career in the field.

The Sea Turtle Care Center is the only sea turtle hospital in the state of South Carolina. Winter is our slower season in regard to local strandings. If tank space allows, we assist northern sea turtle rehabilitation facilities by taking several cold stun patients. This allows for the opportunity to learn how to admit a higher number of turtles at one time and to learn valuable hands-on knowledge of a common cause of stranding every winter throughout the country.  While local releases remain temperature dependent during this time of year, it is possible that you will get the chance to participate in a release in Florida.

Requirements

• Demonstrates interest in environmental conservation, rehabilitation or wildlife biology
• Willingness to interact professionally with the public and other staff
• Ability to work with a team independently
• Must be able to demonstrate initiative and be detail oriented
• Often requires walking, standing, and bending. Regularly requires stooping, crouching, climbing ladders/steps, carrying up to 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, pushing/pulling, working with tools and working in tight spaces.

Responsibilities

• Become familiar with AZA animal care and welfare standards
• Develop and perform basic animal husbandry skills
• Learn and maintain water quality and life support systems
• Obtain basic medical skills while assisting with the medical care of rehab patients
• Perform general patient care: feedings, tank maintenance, and water changes
• Maintain general cleanliness and inventory of hospital and supplies
• Assist with medical procedures
• Detailed record keeping
• Assist in miscellaneous projects as needed
• Perform informal and formal educational programs related to the Sea Turtle Care Center

Benefits

• Fellows will be provided with a $14.50 hourly stipend.
• Housing stipend available.
• Our desired schedule is to work four days with three consecutive days off.
• We offer professional development workshops to help you become a more competitive job candidate.
• A reciprocity pass to local attractions and aquarium tickets.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern