Overview

This position will assist in maintaining and enhancing all aquaria and exhibits. In addition, this position will assist in the delivery of marine science education programs in classroom and outdoor settings. The ability to multi-task is essential and excellent independent work skills are required. This position must demonstrate the ability to interact professionally with the public, board of directors, MDC staff and volunteers. The individual must be a good team player as well as establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES & TASKS

Assistant Aquarist duties include helping with the general husbandry of the live animals in our exhibits. Assistant aquarist will help with monitoring and maintaining all of the equipment that is associated with the live animal exhibits. This equipment includes pumps, filters, lights and other equipment that is critical to animal health. Related maintenance includes cleaning filters, doing water changes, dosing chemicals to maintain good water quality and helping with keeping an orderly and clean exhibit area. Additionally, the Assistant Aquarist may be called upon to act as a docent when needed.

Assistant Educator duties include working with K-12 students to deliver marine science based, hands-on, feet-wet programs in a safe environment while encouraging active learning by students. The assistant educator will have a working knowledge of the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem and the flora and fauna within. The assistant educator will teach in a variety of settings including outdoors and classrooms.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Training:
An undergraduate student currently enrolled in an accredited marine science program or a related field. Experience in K-12 education in either a classroom or an informal environmental education setting is desirable. Computer literate in Microsoft Office.

Licensure/Certification:
CPR and First Aid certification preferred. A criminal background check per the Volusia County School Board Jessica Lunsford Act will be a prerequisite.

Other:
The successful candidate will have excellent writing and communication skills, a positive attitude, enjoyment of the outdoors, and an ability to communicate environmental education principles to children. This individual must also have sufficient mobility and strength to move about the facility, assist children and to move educational equipment (lift at least 50 pounds). The individual must also be able to work in adverse conditions that include rain, heat, insects, etc.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position:
1) Cover letter describing your personal and academic goals for this internship
2) Resume
3) College/university transcript (unofficial is acceptable)
4) References (minimum of two)
5) MDC Internship Application

All documents must be submitted to Tessa Barnard, Education Specialist/Aquarist at the Marine Discovery Center at tessa@marinediscoverycenter.org. Application will be open until filled.