Overview

Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida.

Normally, three positions are available each year: one position in the winter (January-April), one position in the summer (May-August) and one six month position in the fall-winter (October-March). The hours are usually Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with some nights and weekends required. A minimum of a three-month commitment is required for winter and summer, and 6 months for fall-winter. The position is located in Tequesta (east coast of Florida, just north of Palm Beach). The intern’s duties include assisting with manatee rescue, carcass salvage and research in South Florida. Interns will assist with manatee and dolphin field necropsies as needed and conduct photo ID and radio tracking research as time permits. Interns will also complete mortality and rescue reports, perform equipment maintenance and assist with other office and public outreach work as needed. To perform the duties of the position, interns will operate trucks, trailers, and boats up to 22′ in length. The intern is required to complete a project and present a 10-15 minute presentation at the end of their internship.

Qualifications:

Junior or senior college students and recent graduates are eligible. Applicants should have some research field experience; be able to drive large trucks; be computer literate; be comfortable speaking to the public; and be proficient in the use of digital cameras, telephoto lenses, and filters. Previous animal-handling experience is desirable. Ability to trailer flatbeds and boats, as well as operate watercraft up to 22′ in length is desirable. Experience with radio telemetry tracking gear is desirable. Interns must possess a valid driver’s license, be able to lift 50 pounds, and be able to swim. Applicants should understand that this internship will require them to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions. This position is unpaid and housing is not provided. Interns must provide their own transportation to and from the field station.

If you are interested in applying for an internship with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the following information is required:

  • A cover letter describing area(s) of interest and the dates, days, and hours of availability
  • A résumé describing training and experience
  • A list of three references
  • An unofficial copy of your academic transcript

Please send these items as e-mail attachments to:  Interns@MyFWC.com

Or mail hard copies to:

Internship Coordinator
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
100 Eighth Avenue SE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020