Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center Veterinary Technician Internship- The Florida Aquarium

The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center (STRC) Veterinary Technician Internship offers a well-rounded, educational experience working at The Florida Aquarium’s Apollo Beach Campus. The STRC Veterinary Technician Interns will work closely with our experienced veterinary and rehabilitation staff to assist with providing medical care and husbandry support for sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation.

Our Sea Turtle Veterinary Technician Internship is a specialized internship and does not follow traditional college terms. Specialized internship terms for this application are as follows:
- Fall/Winter: October 7 - January 26
- Winter/Spring: January 13 - May 4
- Summer: April 21 – August 3

Schedule:
Scheduled shifts are between 7:00am to 5:00pm with a minimum of 30 hours a week commitment. Availability to work weekends, evenings, holidays and up to 40 hours a week, if required pending patient needs. Interns must be able to commit to the entire length of the seasonal term which they are applying to.

Responsibilities:
All of the Interns primary responsibilities are under the direct or indirect supervision of the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation staff, unless otherwise directed. All Interns will be trained utilizing a phased training program.

• Observe and assist in the daily medical care and treatment of sea turtles.
• Conduct diagnostic tests such as blood work, radiographs, and fecal exams.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the rehabilitation hospital and medical equipment.
• Perform daily husbandry duties, including but not limited to: 
o Diet preparation & animal feeding
o Water quality testing
o Cleaning and maintaining of turtle holding systems
o Maintaining life support systems
o General facility upkeep 
• Under certain circumstances, interns may also assist with strandings, recoveries, necropsies, intakes, and/or releases.
• Operate under strict regulatory protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Give educational tours and presentations at the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

Expectations:
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a veterinary technology program
• Must be able to follow federal and state animal health laws and regulations including AZA, OSHA, USFWS and FWC. 
• Regular attendance and timeliness are an essential function in order to fulfill the requirements of this intern position.
• All information that is provided to you and any cases in which you are exposed too must be kept confidential – no exceptions. 
• Valid driver’s license; must be able to commute to the Apollo Beach campus.
• Basic computer proficiency
• Ability to understand and follow detailed instructions
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Positive attitude with a desire to learn

Physical Requirements:
• Standing/walking during entire shift
• Standing/walking on uneven and wet surfaces
• Climbing stairs and step-stools
• Carrying/lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Squatting, scrubbing and kneeling to clean frequently
• Ability to work in a non-climate controlled facility in Florida heat and humidity.

Considerations:
• Interactions with shellfish – people with allergies should be cautioned.
• Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases – individuals with a weakened immune system should be cautioned. 
• Sea turtle handling and internship responsibilities are not a guarantee and are subject to change, pending patient needs and intern performance.

The Florida Aquarium is a 501c3 non-profit entity. This internship is unpaid and complies with the Fair Labor Standard Act.