Education Intern

Education Internship - Seal Rescue Ireland

Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a charity organisation which operates a busy marine animal rescue and rehabilitation centre located in Courtown, Co. Wexford. As the only facility that fully rehabilitates seals within the Republic of Ireland, SRI responds to strandings nationwide. Most reports are for young grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and common seal (Phoca vitulina) pups found sick, injured or orphaned across the Irish coastline. In addition, SRI pursues understanding and public engagement of ocean conservation and sustainability through education, community outreach and research programmes.

SRI is currently accepting applications for their Education Intern position. With openings starting immediately, this high paced, full-time position is for a minimum of 6 months, but longer time commitments are encouraged. After completion of initial training, interns who excel may be invited to stay longer and offered higher levels of responsibility. This is an unpaid position however qualified candidates will receive compensation through living expenses (food and accommodation in staff housing).

Reports to: Operations Manager

Job Summary: The Education Intern will assist with everything related to the various education programs which cater to children as young as 2 years old all the way up to presentations geared towards adults. The intern will need to be able to plan, develop and execute educational programs, crafts, games, materials and activities which are tailored to each group’s specific needs, interests and curriculum. They will plan/attend community outreach events, school visits, SRI birthday parties, fundraisers, and conferences and promote awareness of SRI’s mission of marine conservation. They will also be trained to give daily educational tours of the Centre as well as providing customer care in the gift shop. There may be some involvement in assisting in the husbandry care and maintenance of rehabilitation animals if interested.

Requirements: Applicants must have a background and dedicated interest in areas of study such as Zoology, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Conservation, Education, Oceanography, Child Development or related field. Background knowledge of marine mammals is preferred but not required. Applicants must be organized, personable, self-motivated, resourceful and have experience facilitating events and lessons for large groups. They will be expected to manage staff and volunteers appropriately. Great networking and public speaking skills are a must. Interns will be expected to maintain a high level of professionalism and diplomacy whenever they are representing Seal Rescue Ireland. We are looking for a candidate that works well as a team and is comfortable around individuals of all ages, ability levels, and backgrounds. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who will help take the education program to the next level. Finally, applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment, and be available to work nights, weekends and holidays. Clean driving record and ability to drive in the Republic of Ireland is desired.

Duties Include:

• Schedule, coordinate and develop educational programs

• Create educational plans and materials

• Plan and attend community outreach events to represent SRI

• Plan and assist with fundraisers and events

• Lead groups of children and adults in educational activities

• Assist in the care and maintenance of the Center’s rehabilitation animals (if interested)

• Provide assistance to the rehabilitation staff as needed

• Give educational tours of the facility to visitors, school groups

• Provide customer service to visitors in the gift shop

• Performs other duties relating to the Centre’s goals and mission statement as required.

This is an unpaid position, however accommodation in staff housing (includes food) is provided for this role. Interns are responsible for their own travel expenses.

Please visit our website at (http://www.sealrescueireland.org/internships/) to download the application form. Then send completed with your resume, cover letter, and two reference letters to: intern@sealrescueireland.org

Attention: Education Internship

Check us out on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/sealrescueireland/

Registered Charity: RCN 20108519