Summer Internship - Education / Interpretation

Summary:

 The intern will deliver informal front-of-house and education programs working as part of the education / Interpretation team.  Intern will aid in development, preparation, and execution of programming for schools, and tour groups of all ages. The intern will be expected to interpret live and static exhibits to the visiting public, teach interactive marine science programs to groups, including day programs, and camps, and monitor groups during their self-guided tours. The intern is required to work a flexible schedule to accommodate variable hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends as needed. The intern will also work with the education team on projects that may include virtual field trip elements, inventory and supply maintenance of educational materials and resources, video and program creations, and classroom management for PreK through adulthood. The intern will have daily interaction with public programs, education, exhibits, husbandry, and research personnel.

Education / Experience:

• High school diploma or GED; or equivalent experience; Study in biology, marine science, or a related field is a plus. Previous customer service experience preferred. Experience in performing arts, narrating, hosting, or similar is a plus.
• Current high school students with a passion for science and the environment, volunteering experience, demonstration of time management through participation in extracurricular activities, or a combination and equivalent of the above are qualified. Must be at least 14 years of age, as required for permitting.

Essential Duties:

• Interpret all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Help maintain the physical appearance of manned exhibits and deliver announcements over the public address system.
• Present briefings, lectures, presentations, multi-media shows, structured and impromptu talks, and guided tours by learning to employ appropriate interpretive techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences.
• Assist the interpretation and education department with public presentations by maintaining and organizing education program materials
• Deliver a variety of scheduled programs and activities emphasizing conservation, empathy and diversity. Programs and activities may include family programs, community and educational events, narrating animal feeds and training sessions, leading group tours, pop-up programs, structured learning engagement and daily guest interpretive opportunities throughout the center for guests of all ages.
• Providing exceptional customer service when interacting with visitors and answering general inquiries.
• Assists with daily operations, including opening and closing, answering emails, group check-in and orientation, and customer service.
• Gather necessary learning tools, props, documents and/or presentation slides, for program set up and execution.
• Demonstrate learned educational skills by presenting lessons to classes and other visiting groups.
• Learn about Alaska SeaLife Center’s virtual field trips, presentations, and exhibits and assist with multimedia elements.
• Interacting daily with interpretation, husbandry and research personnel.
• Performs other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Must have outstanding presentation skills, be dynamic and engaging and comfortable presenting information to a range of group sizes; able to communicate effectively to all ages and learning abilities.
• Self-motivated, reliable, enthusiastic, energetic personality and positive attitude.
• Able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, calmly, and efficiently in a high-pressure setting.
• Use independent judgment, personal experience, and training to ensure quality guest interactions according to ASLC policy.
• Ability to work independently with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient computer skills including basic Microsoft and Google applications, specifically Excel are preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Job requires the ability to stand for extended periods of time. More than 50% of the typical workday may be spent walking, sitting, standing, and using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands or fingers.
• Sensory abilities require vision, touching, and feeling, with more than 50% of the day spent communicating, including talking and hearing.
• Job requires flexibility and availability in schedule. Required to work weekends, evenings and holidays.
• This position provides on-the-job training.

Internship Dates: May 15, 2024 - August 11, 2024

Unpaid Internship: Housing Available

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendation.

A background check will be conducted on any potential intern.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums