Sea Turtle & Aquatic Husbandry (Summer Intern)

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Nova Southeastern University (NSU) was founded in 1964, and is a not-for-profit, independent university with a reputation for academic excellence and innovation. Nova Southeastern University offers competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package including tuition waiver, retirement plan, excellent medical and dental plans and much more. NSU cares about the health and welfare of its students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors and is a tobacco-free university.

We appreciate your support in making NSU the preeminent place to live, work, study and grow. Thank you for your interest in a career with Nova Southeastern University.

Primary Purpose:

The Marine Animal Care & Life Support Intern supports the daily operations of the Marine Environmental Education Center's aquarium systems and live animal collection. This position provides hands-on experience with aquarium husbandry, life support system (LSS) operation, water quality monitoring, and the care of sea turtles and other turtle species. Interns will learn industry-standard practices used in aquariums, rehabilitation centers, and marine research facilities.

Job Category: Non-Exempt

Hiring Range:  14.00

Pay Basis:  Hourly

Subject to Grant Funding? Yes  

Essential Job Functions: 

• Assist with daily husbandry for resident and rehabilitating turtles, including diet prep,
feeding, enrichment, and behavioral monitoring.
• Help maintain clean and safe enclosures, tanks, and dry docks.
• Participate in medical observation, intake support, and weight/measurement
recording (under supervision).
• Follow all safety, biosecurity, and animal welfare protocols.

Job Requirements: 

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: • Knowledge of or demonstrated interest in marine biology, zoology, environmental
science, aquarium science, or a related field.

• Ability to work safely and comfortably around water, heavy equipment, and live
animals.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30–40 pounds.

• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying conditions.

• Ability to frequently climb and descend stairs.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions and procedures.

• Willingness and ability to learn technical systems and operational processes.

• Previous animal husbandry and/or laboratory experience is preferred but not
required.

• Open Water Dive Certification preferred.

Required Certifications/Licensures: Must be eligible to be listed on a Marine Turtle Permit.

Required Education: Must be enrolled in college or a recent college graduate.

Major (if required: Biology or related science

Required Experience: 

Preferred Qualifications: 

Is this a safety sensitive position?   

Background Screening Required?  Yes  

Pre-Employment Conditions: 

Sensitivity Disclaimer: Nova Southeastern University is in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and does not discriminate with regard to applicants or employees with disabilities and will make reasonable accommodation when necessary.

NSU considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status or any other legally protected status.