Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Position: Animal Care Intern (Unpaid)

Department: Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat

Reports to: Director of Animal Care and Animal Care Staff

The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat is a second stage rehabilitation facility that provides a temporary home for manatees, as a part of the Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release program run by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Manatees come to The Bishop from critical care hospitals once they are stable and no longer in need of treatment. While here, manatees have some time to put on weight and build on life skills before their eventual return to the wild.

Position Summary: The Animal Care Internship will allow interns to develop knowledge and skills in the daily husbandry of West Indian manatees and freshwater turtles. Learned responsibilities include, but are not limited to, daily care and feeding, maintenance of habitat (if necessary), behavioral observations, record keeping, and guest interaction.

Skills and Knowledge You Will Acquire:

• Learn to perform all activities in alignment with AWA, USDA, MMPA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards, and standards that ensure animal welfare.
• Develop knowledge in the husbandry and care of West Indian manatees and freshwater turtles, including preparing and distributing approved animal diets, detailed observations, and cleaning.
• Close observation of animal behaviors with a focus on input, output, swimming, and behaviors related to monitoring health of animals and what is normal behavior.
• Potential to observe health assessment.
• Observe detailed record keeping and reporting on assigned animals in line with USDA standards.
• Develop knowledge of Museum and Manatee Habitat layout to respond quickly in the event of an animal emergency and to assist guests on a daily basis.
• Initiate and complete assigned area projects.
• Develop knowledge of safety SOP, safety concerns, and reporting protocols.
• Develop knowledge of basic nutrition requirements for animal collection.
• Interact with guests during both formal and informal discussions.

What to expect:

• Internship syllabus
• Projects
• Bi-weekly quizzes
• Mid-term and final competition reviews
• Potential to shadow at other facilities

Preferred Skills:

• Schedule flexibility to work weekends and to adjust schedule as needed
• Must be able to work a maximum of 16 hours per week, two consecutive days.
• Knowledge of Word Processing software and Spreadsheet software
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Must be self-motivated and able to take direction from Animal Care staff
• Work well with others and able to work in group situations

Physical Requirements:

• Must be a Florida resident, or living in the Tampa Bay area for schooling purposes to allow for close access. Out of state applicants not recommended.
• Able to swim (for the purpose of working around the water. Interns do not dive or swim in the manatee habitat).
• Ability to lift-up to 50 pounds without difficulty.
• Ability to bend, lift, sweep, and mop without difficulty.
• Able to work in variable Florida weather conditions including heat, humidity and rain.
• Possess visual acuity appropriate for animal care and general safety practices.

Fall term September- December

The Rehabilitation program is a non-contact / non-interaction program for manatees.