Interpretation / Marine Mammal Wildlife Response

Interpretation / Marine Mammal Wildlife Response Internship

Summary:
 Interns will act as a conduit for information between the Interpretation Department and the Wildlife Response Team. Time will be divided between activities with the Interpretation Department for 20 hours a week, and 20 hours a week will be dedicated to Wildlife Response team activities. Applicants must be willing to work a flexible schedule, as hours may include evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. Interns will learn and gain experience in the rescue and rehabilitation efforts of Alaska's stranded wild marine mammals and birds. The nature of this Internship will focus on stranded marine mammal animal care, and the goal is to share this experience with others. Under the guidance of Wildlife Response and Interpretation staff, the Intern will be trained and expected to perform the essential duties.

Education / Experience:
Applicant must be 18 years or older with a strong background in the biological sciences. Experience with Google Suite and Zims360 preferred.  Previous customer service job preferred.

Essential Duties:
•    Interpret all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Help maintain the physical appearance of manned exhibits and deliver announcements over the public address system.
•    Present briefings, lectures, presentations, multi-media shows, structured and impromptu talks, and guided tours on all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits by learning to employ appropriate interpretive techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interests of particular audiences.
•    Prepare daily animal diets and perform routine cleaning of quarantine and work areas.
•    Assist in the care and maintenance of the Center’s rehabilitating animals.
•    Assist with the Stranded Marine Animal Hotline and interact professionally with the public.
•    Maintain and update computerized medical records.
•    Assist with pool cleanings and water quality testing.
•    Help ensure that the rehabilitation clinic and quarantine area are stocked and prepared to receive animals.
•    Assist with the rescue and release of stranded animals if opportunities are presented. Please note, due to the remote nature of Alaska, most animal recovery in the field happens with local
authorities, and the animal is then transferred to the Center. Staff rarely pick up animals directly from their stranding location.
•    Performs other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Ability to speak effectively and to be comfortable meeting new people and interfacing with existing and potential new donors.  Ability to work independently with excellent organizational and time management skills.  Proficient computer skills including basic Microsoft applications, specifically Excel are preferred.
Ability to be organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and possess a strong desire to see to the completion of projects is highly desired.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and be able to get on hands and knees to restrain marine mammal patients. Applicants should be able to work outside in the sun, wind, rain, or a combination of all three.
Ability to see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 50 pounds.

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Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

Internship Dates: May 2025 to August 2025

Unpaid Internship / Housing Included

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendation. 

A background check will be conducted on any potential intern.