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East Coast Florida Manatee Internship

Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research for six counties on the east coast of Florida.

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Normally, three positions are available each year: one position in the spring (January–April), one position in the summer (May–August), and one position in the fall (September–December). Due to extensive training, a minimum of four months is required. Hours are flexible, but some evening and weekend hours may be required. Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research for six counties on the east coast of Florida. Interns will operate trucks, trailers, and boats up to 22 feet in length. Interns will assist with manatee field necropsies as needed and conduct photo ID and radio tracking research as time permits. Interns will also complete mortality reports, label and catalog slides, perform equipment maintenance, and assist with other office and public outreach work as needed. A final project (paper and MS PowerPoint presentation) will be required.

Qualifications:

• College juniors, seniors, and recent graduates eligible
  
• Prior field research experience desired, but can train
  
• Comfortable speaking to public
  
• Must be proficient in use of 35 mm cameras, telephoto lenses, and filters
  
• Computer literacy preferred
  
• Previous animal handling experience desirable but not necessary
  
• Ability to trailer flatbeds and boats, operate watercraft up to 22? in length and experience with radio telemetry tracking gear desired, but can train
  
• Must possess a valid US Class D driver's license
  
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs
  
• Must be able to swim
  
• Job requires interns to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions

Application Process:
Please send a hard copy of your résumé along with your cover letter, college transcripts, three references, and contact information to the following address:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
Indian River Field Station
1220 Prospect Ave, STE 285
Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: 321-953-5037
ManateeInterns@myfwc.com

These intern positions are open until filled.

*All positions are unpaid. Housing and transportation are NOT provided.

For more information, please visit the FWRI Internships section.