About us:

Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium (CNCP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of “inspiring people to connect with Nature”. CNCP focuses on the care of non-releasable rehabilitated wildlife, environmental education, astronomy, and ecological well-being for the SWFL community and visiting guests.

Internship 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:

• Hands-on experience: Gain practical, hands-on experience in the fields of animal husbandry, environmental education, and conservation
• Professional Development: Work closely with professionals and expand your skills and knowledge in biology, education, animal care, and more.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and experts in the industry, creating valuable connections.
• FUN: Get to be part of an awesome team and learn lots!

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college or university program in biology, environmental science, zoology, or other related fields.
• Passion for wildlife conservation and environmental education
• Comfortable around animals such as reptiles, amphibians, raptors, and others.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Be able to work outside in extreme weather conditions (hot, humid, rain)
• Must be able to climb stairs, lift 40 lbs.
• Comfortable speaking in front of groups and doing public presentations, or at least willing to learn
• Weekend hours may be required
• Must be comfortable working with people of all ages, including special needs groups
• Computer literacy including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office
• Must maintain a positive and outgoing demeanor

Responsibilities (May include, but are not limited to:)

• Assist in animal husbandry (day-to-day care), including daily cleaning for reptiles, amphibians, raptors, and others.
• Assist in more advanced cleaning and animal care.
• Assist in preparing diets for animal ambassadors.
• Participate in providing enrichment for all species as set forth by the permit holder.
• Participate in daily record keeping responsibilities.
• 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.
• Present indoor and outdoor environmental education interpretive programs, workshops, field trips, and outreach utilizing live animal ambassadors and biofacts, as assigned.
• Complete projects related to animal care agreed upon by internship coordinator and permit holder.
• Maintain cleanliness of the Nature Center as needed
• Assist in the facilitation of special events/fundraisers at the facilities as needed 

Internship Type: Full-time

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Holidays
• Weekend availability ideal

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Fort Myers, FL: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work

All interns will be subject to a background check