Internships
Interning at the Seabird Station
PHSS is now offering a unique internship opportunity for college students and recent graduates interested in native Florida wildlife with an emphasis on seabirds. Up to 2 internships are available every semester. The specific start and end dates are flexible.
The internship will have a strong focus on natural history. Participants will learn to:
- identify native species
- set up age and species appropriate environments
- choose, prepare and feed nutritious diets
- assist with medical treatments
There may also be opportunities to observe surgeries and necropsies. While the main focus of the internship is animal care, interns may also participate in many of the other daily activities of a non-profit organization, including public education and fundraising events.
Requirements
- you must be enrolled in a college program pursuing an interest in biology, ornithology, wildlife
sciences, environmental studies, pre-veterinary medicine or a related field. - If you bring your own vehicle you will be required to show proof of a valid driver’s license
and insurance. - A drug test will be required at the discretion of the executive director. This may occur at any time
and for no reason or cause. - Applicants should have no animal-related allergies.
- Previous experience working with wildlife is helpful, but not required.
- You must have a current tetanus shot.
Qualifications
You must be able to:
- speak, read and write English
- work both independently and as part of a team
- perform tedious tasks for long periods of time
- work outdoors in Florida during the summer
- be able to lift up to 50 pounds
Facts
- This internship is unpaid, but a meal stipend is provided.
- Housing is provided on an air-conditioned houseboat. The houseboat provides living space for two people, including a living room and kitchen.
- Shower and laundry facilities are available on site.
- Internet access is available.
- Medical Insurance is not provided by Pelican harbor Seabird Station. Interns must carry their own medical insurance.
- Interns must sign a waiver releasing Pelican Harbor Seabird Station from liability for injury and illness occurring during the internship.
Application
Application Deadlines
Exact start and end dates, and the length of each internship, are determined on a case by case basis. Please see below for a timetable of application deadlines.
Winter/Spring Internship
(early January to May)
Application Period Opens: September 1st
Application Period Closes: September 30th
First Round Interviews Begin: October 15th
Second Round Interviews Begin: October 20th
Final Selection made by November 1st
Summer Internship
(early May to mid August)
Application Period Opens: January 1st
Application Period Closes: January 31st
First Round Interviews Begin: February 5th
Second Round Interviews Begin: February 10th
Final Selection made by March 1st
Fall Internship
(late August to mid December)
Application Period Opens: May 1st
Application Period Closes: May 31st
First Round Interviews Begin: June 10th
Second Round Interviews Begin: June 15th
Final Selection made by June 30th
