Aviculture and Mammals Internship (Unpaid)

South Carolina Aquarium

Charleston, SC

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Animal Care, Animal Husbandry, Communication Skills, Disease, Lift/Move 50 Pounds, Natural Science, Nonprofit, Problem Solving Skills, Specimen Collection
LOCATION
Charleston, SC
POSTED
2 days ago

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.Aviculture and Mammals Internship (Unpaid)Seasonal Technical Charleston, SC, US10 days ago Requisition ID: 1094Description:The aviculture + mammal intern position is an unpaid internship designed to begin in August 2026 and conclude in January 2027.The internship is ideal for those interested in day-to-day operations that occur within the aviculture and mammal department at the South Carolina Aquarium. The intern will have the opportunity to learn about and participate in husbandry practices and behavioral management of the South Carolina Aquarium's native bird and mammal collection. The intern will assist staff with all aspects of daily animal care including husbandry, training, and enrichment design. Additionally, opportunities to learn raptor handling, operant conditioning, and assist in cooperative projects with other animal care galleries, collect specimens in the field, and more will be available. This internship is intended for candidates with previous animal experience that would like experience with captive managed bird and mammal populations in a formal AZA certified animal care setting.Learning Objectives:Follow aquarium safety and animal protocolsBecome familiar with AZA animal care and welfare standardsDevelop an understanding of species natural history and functional behaviorsUnderstand environmental enrichment using the SPIDER methodUnderstand behavioral training using operant conditioningUnderstand non-profit organization operationsDevelop animal care, cleaning, and restraint/capture skillsUnderstand and execute enrichment and training techniquesLearn and follow proper feeding procedures and techniques in caring for animals, and ensure daily care of animalsBe able to recognize signs of disease and understand the purpose of quarantineProfessionally represent The South Carolina Aquarium on the floor for visitors from around the worldCommitment & Qualifications:Length of internship: 6 monthsCollege undergraduate or recent post-undergraduate preferredAny major in Natural Science preferredAdditional Skills:Clear communication skills during the planning, implementation and execution of projects.Flexible and comfortable in an open-plan workspace that is constantly energetic and dynamicAbility to work independently; demonstrating the ability to be a proactive problem-solver strongly desired.Unpaid; housing not includedCollege credit may be available through your universityProfessional development workshopsAbility to earn aquarium tickets and a reciprocity pass to area attractionsPhysical Requirements:Often requires walking, standing, and bending. Regularly requires stooping, crouching, climbing ladders/steps, carrying up to 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, balancing, pushing and pulling, crawling, working with tools, and working in tight spacesInternship Dates and HoursSix months, 24 hours per week minimum requirementStart date: August 2026End date: January 2027Weekly schedule varies but hours are typically 8AM-4PM 3-4 days a week, with the potential of working one weekend day a week.#J-18808-Ljbffr

About the Company

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South Carolina Aquarium