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Careers & Internships

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is a great place to work with a small, dedicated, and team-oriented staff; unique educational and social mission; and beautiful aquarium and gallery facilities enjoyed year-round by people from all over the world.

The Rist Family Foundation Internship Program offers paid internships in Marine Biology/Education and Aquarium Husbandry.

Please see below for current opportunities.

Marine Biology Education Internship

Interns will have the opportunity to work with experienced Marine Biologists and educators to learn about mollusk biology, ecology, biodiversity, and teaching methods. Interns will gain valuable job experience helpful for a career in museums and aquariums, as well as natural history, ecology, and conservation education. 

Location
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957

Duties:
●   Educate Museum visitors at interactive touch pools
●    Provide exhibit interpretation and answer questions for visitors in the Living Gallery of aquariums, Great Hall of Shells, Discovery Cart, and temporary exhibits
●   Engage with K-12 students through Museum field trips and/or Mollusks on the Move outreach programs
●   Assist with interpretive beach walks on various Sanibel beaches
●   Deliver in-Museum programs about various topics regarding Mollusks and their biology, ecology, cultural significance, and conservation
●    Learn Association of Zoos and Aquariums guidelines, procedures, and protocols 

Qualifications:
●   Currently enrolled or a recent graduate in Marine Biology, Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related field
●    Comfortable with public speaking in a variety of settings to audiences of all ages
●   Must be able to work outside in a variety of weather conditions including heat and humidity, wind, and rain
●  Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
●   Must be able to lift up to 25lbs

Time Requirements:
●  20 hours per week (including at least one weekend day per week), for 10 weeks (200 hours total)
●  Start/end dates are flexible, and number of hours per week/number of weeks working can be adjusted to work with class schedule if needed

Stipend: $1,500

Available Openings: 1

To Apply:
Send a resume, cover letter, and 2 references to Associate Director of Education, Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum.org. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.