Are you excited for a career-building volunteer opportunity or are passionate about working with animals? Have you ever wondered what it takes to operate a fish quarantine facility? Learn the process and skills necessary to care for marine species prior to their introduction to the Frost Science aquarium. Enrollment is open! Apply today to become a Frost Science Aquarist volunteer!
PURPOSE: We are searching for sustained, long-term volunteers that can commit to at least 100 hours per year. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected applicants must complete all paperwork and attend orientation before they can begin volunteering.
DETAILS: The Batchelor Environmental Center Fish Quarantine Volunteers at Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science will work alongside the husbandry team to assist staff with responsibilities associated with acquisition and quarantine of animals in our collection; including feeding of fish, maintaining aquarium systems, water quality, disease and parasite identification and control and other routine duties related to animal quarantine. This opportunity is at the Biscayne Bay Campus of FIU at our Batchelor Environmental Center and not at the Museum property.
RATE: Unpaid.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with daily care, maintenance and appearance of quarantine systems; including cleaning filters, water sampling & chemistry, completing water changes, scrubbing algae, etc
- Preparation of food for daily feedings
- Assist with daily feeding of animals
- Assist with testing water quality parameters for exhibits
- Complete behavioral observations and monitor animal health
- Assist with new animal acclimation
- Record animal observations, chemistry & feeding data
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Background or experience in biology, marine science, or animal science preferred.
- Previous experience with animals desired.
- Interest in working in a public animal care facility.
- Reliable and punctual.
- Positive attitude.
- Ability to work well with different personalities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Must be 18 years or older.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
- Work activities include bending, reaching, crawling, and lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds of weight.
- This position requires working with tools and chemicals using appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Work is performed outdoors with some work done indoors.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
- This position requires Level 2 background clearance as defined by Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
- Drug screening as part of the Drug Free Workplace Program.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be able to commit to a minimum of 100 hours per year on a weekly or biweekly schedule.
- Availability in mornings preferred.
- If selected, applicants are required to attend an orientation before they can begin volunteering.
Please apply online: https://www.frostscience.org/volunteer/
