Aquatic Biology Intern

POSITION TITLE:  Aquatic Biology Intern

REPORTS TO:  Aquatic Biology Intern Coordinator 

TIME REQUIREMENTS: Time requirements are subject to the length of the program equivalent to one college semester. Minimum requirements are working 40hrs per week. Hours requirements total 500 hours over the season for a 3-month program, 600 for a 4-month program, 800 for a 5-month program, 950 for a 6-month program. These hours are required to build on prior learning and increase knowledge of the particular field. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: To support the goals and objectives of the Aquatic Biology programs by following all rules and protocols, maintaining safe and sanitary environment for people and animals, deliver excellent guest service, as well as providing support for the Aquatic Biology department as needed. The shifts will include 5/8 hour days, during the internship vacations are not permitted. Previous experience with animal care is not essential. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

·      Develop general knowledge of Clearwater Marine Aquarium, natural history, and biographies of resident animals

·      Acquire basic knowledge of sea turtle and fish anatomy and behavior, and be able to conduct an ethogram on designated docent shifts.

·      Posses strong communication skills with clear, friendly and effective verbal and nonverbal communication

·      Great time-management skills with the ability to plan, organize, and multi-task

·      Be able to be self-motivated with a positive attitude, and disciplined with excellent work ethic

·      Provide support to staff, volunteers and peers for opening, closing and daily tasks as outlined on departmental checklists

·      Assist in the care of resident sea turtles and variety of aquatic species including food handling, feeding, exhibit maintenance, cleaning and sanitizing working areas, animal records, routine medical care

·      Assist with enrichment, target training, and medical management behavior training

·      Conduct conservational and educational presentations for the CMA guests

·      Follow all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) requirements for aspects of sea turtle and fish, have knowledge of permitting and recording

·      Have a basic understanding of USDA requirements to ensure clean and safe environment for our animal collection

·      Assist with water quality and life support systems

·      Assist with exhibit upkeep and enrichment design as needed

·      Participate in research projects, media events, VIP programming as needed

·      Abide by all CMA policies and procedures 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

·      High School diploma

·      Preference given to those who are currently enrolled or just graduated from a four-year program in psychology, biology, environmental science, zoology or another related field

·      Current CPR/First Aid certification preferred

·      SCUBA certification preferred 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Possess the following attributes and abilities to:

·      Lift up to 50lbs to waist level - Frequently

·      Lift up to 20lbs to shoulders and above head – Moderate Frequency

·      Walk/stand for long periods of time - Frequently

·      Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces - Frequently

·      Safely climb ladders when needed – Moderate Frequency

·      Squat, bend, kneel, twist and reach - Frequently

·      Reach above the shoulders - Frequently

·      Push and pull larger equipment – Moderate Frequency

·      Work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weather – Frequently

·      Work indoors, under cover without air conditioning or heat – Frequently

·      Pass an Animal Care swim test

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required.

All job requirements are subject to change to reflect the evolving position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws). Continued employment remains on an “at-will” basis.

Company is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Clearwater Marine Aquarium participates in E-Verify, please view the Notice of E-Verify Participation and the Notice of Right to Work.