Overview
This internship aims to provide those pursuing degrees in the natural sciences with the opportunity to get hands-on experience in primarily animal care/husbandry, but environmental education as well. Interns will be interacting with non-releasable animals and the public daily. Interns will also complete assigned projects and participate in public educational programs. This is an unpaid position.
What's in it for you?
Qualifications
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Hands-on experience: Gain practical, hands-on experience in the fields of animal husbandry, environmental education, and conservation
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Professional Development: Work closely with professionals and expand your skills and knowledge in biology, education, animal care, and more.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and experts in the industry, creating valuable connections.
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FUN: Get to be part of an awesome team and learn lots!
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Currently enrolled in a college or university program in biology, environmental science, zoology, or other related fields.
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Passion for wildlife conservation and environmental education
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Comfortable around animals such as reptiles, amphibians, raptors, and others.
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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Be able to work outside in extreme weather conditions (hot, humid, rain)
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Must be able to climb stairs, lift 40 lbs.
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Comfortable speaking in front of groups and doing public presentations, or at least willing to learn
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Weekend hours may be required
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Must be comfortable working with people of all ages, including special needs groups
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Computer literacy including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office
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Must maintain a positive and outgoing demeanor
Responsibilities
(Including but not limited to)
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Assist in animal husbandry (day-to-day care), including daily cleaning for reptiles, amphibians, raptors, and others.
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Assist in more advanced cleaning and animal care.
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Assist in preparing diets for animal ambassadors.
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Participate in providing enrichment for all species as set forth by the permit holder.
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Participate in daily record keeping responsibilities.
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Monitors and examines animals for any signs or symptoms of distress, illness, and/or injury and reports any issues to the permit holder or intern supervisor.
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Present indoor and outdoor environmental education interpretive programs, workshops, field trips, and outreach utilizing live animal ambassadors and biofacts, as assigned.
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Complete projects related to animal care agreed upon by internship coordinator and permit holder.
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Maintain cleanliness of the Nature Center as needed
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Assist in the facilitation of special events/fundraisers at the facilities as needed
Internship type: Full time
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Schedule:
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8 hour shifts
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Holidays
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Weekend availability ideal
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Location:
​Fort Myers, FL: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting internship.
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All interns will be subject to a background check
