Animals & Habitats Intern - Ref#1464
Kamin Science Center (formerly known as Carnegie Science Center) connects people with science, igniting curiosity that endures for a lifetime. Our Science Center integrates science and technology, offering immersive experiences like exploring the human body's mysteries and diving into river science and wildlife wonders. Embracing the spirit of exploration, we proudly feature Mars: The Next Giant Leap and showcase USS Requin (SS 481) submarine, offering firsthand glimpses into space and history. Beyond these exhibits, visitors can enjoy movies on Pittsburgh's largest screen, engaging live theater performances, thrilling sports challenges, and the fan-favorite Miniature Railroad & Village®. Committed to inclusivity, our position on Pittsburgh's North Shore by the Ohio River ensures accessibility for everyone, while our outreach initiatives actively involve Pittsburgh's vibrant and diverse communities, extending our impact beyond local boundaries to a national scale. Join us as we ignite curiosity and forge deep connections between people and the limitless wonders of science!This is a temporary position estimated to last from January 19, 2025 to April 30, 2025.Assist the Animals and Habitats team with the care and maintenance of a variety of plants and animals, including 70 species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates (most native to Pennsylvania) and 25-35 species of plants. Educate visitors about local, national, and international conservation while highlighting our animal ambassadors.QUALIFICATIONSEDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:Enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or trades educational program.Per Pennsylvania law, Animals and Habitats interns may be required to obtain a state fishing license in order to present with animals on the museum floor. Any license fees are the responsibility of the intern.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
Able to follow explicit directions, and detail oriented.
Reliable and punctual. Able to prioritize and multi-task.
Willingness to learn new information and tasks associated with it.
Able to interact with visitors and staff in a positive manner while being sensitive to animal needs.
Able to work on a project independently with materials provided including the internet.
Utilize computer skills with programs like Microsoft Word and Excel.
Comfortable handling live animals.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Able to climb stairs and ladders; can bend, kneel, and lift up to 50lbs. (Accommodations are available)employment training:Training follows a progression from observation to guided participation to working independently under the supervision of Animals and Habitats staff.TIME COMMITMENT: 120 hours to be completed during the summer and/or semester.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
Routine care of our holding aquariums and habitats for a collection of animals.
Food preparation and cleaning of animal habitats using proper husbandry techniques.
Maintenance of aquarium physical and biological components.
Assist staff with various tasks associated with keeping non-venomous snakes, frogs, turtles, lizards, salamanders, freshwater fish, invertebrates, and plants.
Record daily animal and plant observations and tasks performed.
Interact with the public presenting informal animal information through demonstrations.
Assist visitors by answering general questions about the Carnegie Science Center.
Complete a project that will benefit either our visitors or staff (decided by the intern in their area of interest that is approved by the supervisors).
Opportunity to engage with alternative agriculture including fertilizer concentration testing, plant maintenance and general botany.
Capable of working in a team environment but has the ability to work independently.
Intern will not be required to administer veterinary care to the animals, though they can observe procedures
Other duties as assigned.
The following PA Act 153 clearances, or proof of application of clearances, are required beginning employment and as a condition of continued employment: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Obtaining the required clearances is completed as part of the new hire process.Carnegie Museums is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer Minorities / Females / Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities / Sexual Orientation / Gender IdentityThe above job description reflects the essential functions and qualifications for the position identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not alter the at-will relationship between CMP and the employee.