Rescue Team Intern (Fall 2025)

POSITION TITLE: Rescue Team Intern

REPORTS TO:  Senior Rescue Biologist, Rescue Staff 

TIME REQUIREMENTS: Time requirements are subject to the length of the program equivalent to one college semester. Minimum requirements are working 40hrs per week. Hours requirements total 500 hours over the season for a 3-month program, 650 for a 4-month program, 800 for a 5-month program, 950 for a 6-month program. These hours are required to build on prior learning and increase knowledge.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: Support the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the work of the Rescue Department through attending, teaching, and developing department trainings as assigned, representing the aquarium at outreach events, and promoting stewardship of the marine environment. Interns will assist with day-to-day department functions including equipment management, monitoring the emergency Stranding Response Hotline, responding to distressed and injured marine life, and data entry.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provide exceptional guest and public interaction during all stranding-related responses, outreach efforts, and in-house events.
• Educate the public about marine conservation issues primarily related to the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s target species (cetaceans, sea turtles, and North American River Otters).
• Communicate clearly and professionally both verbally and through written communication.
• Attend, teach, and develop department training sessions as assigned.
• Participate in operations required for 100% stranding response preparedness including equipment management, supply inventory, data management.
• Participate in the daily operations of the Rescue Department including, but not limited to, completion of checklists, conducting public stranding demonstrations, and guest programs.
• Assist monitoring the 24-hour CMA Emergency Stranding Hotline.
• Aid in the rapid response to stranded animal events and provide support rescue efforts.
• Recover carcasses, complete documentation, and sanitation of equipment.
• Conduct behavioral observations on resident animals in conjunction with the Animal Care Departments.
• Conduct diet preparation and habitat maintenance of resident animals in conjunction with the Animal Care Departments.
• Assist in rehabilitation efforts including day, evening, and overnight shift coverage.
• Follow all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) requirements for aspects of sea turtle and fish, have knowledge of permitting and recording.
• Have a basic understanding of USDA requirements to ensure clean and safe environment for our animal collection.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• High School diploma
• Preference given to those who are currently enrolled or just graduated from a four-year program in psychology, biology, environmental science, zoology or another related field
• Maintain a flexible schedule with availability during days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Possess comprehensive knowledge of stranding policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and day-to-day functions.
• Complete required online training as assigned.
• Complete certification for all stranding response-training modules.
• Maintain full-time commitment to Rescue Department each week.
• Pass the Rescue Team swim test.
• Demonstrate ability to educate the public about marine conservation issues primarily related to the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s target species (cetaceans, sea turtles, and North American river otters).
• Demonstrate ability to operate stranding vehicles under the direction of department staff.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Lift up to 50lbs to waist level – Moderate Frequency
• Lift up to 20lbs to shoulders and above head – Frequently
• Walk/stand for long periods of time – Frequently
• Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces – Frequently
• Climb ladders– Moderate Frequency
• Squat, bend, kneel, twist and reach – Frequently
• Reach above the shoulders – Frequently
• Push and pull larger equipment – Frequently
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weather – Frequently
• Work indoors, under cover without air conditioning or heat – Frequently
• Work extended daily hours and overnight– Occasionally

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required. 

All job requirements are subject to change to reflect the evolving position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws). Continued employment remains on an “at-will” basis.

Company is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.  Clearwater Marine Aquarium participates in E-Verify, please view the Notice of E-Verify Participation and the Notice of Right to Work.