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 or education with the opportunity to get hands-on experience in both environmental education and animal care/husbandry. Interns will be interacting with non-releasable animals and the public daily. Interns will also complete assigned projects, participate in public educational programs, and develop programming material for future 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 education, 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 25 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.
• Participate in daily record keeping responsibilities.
• Assist in preparing diets for animal ambassadors.
• Assist with and develop CNCP’s environmental education and interpretive programs
• Present indoor and outdoor environmental education interpretive programs, workshops, field trips, and outreach utilizing live animal ambassadors and biofacts.
• Maintain cleanliness of the Nature Center as needed
• Assist with summer camps when applicable
• 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