Position: Marine Mammal Veterinary Internship 

Location: Laguna Beach, California 

Duration: 1 year 

Dates: June 27, 2022 to June 30, 2023 (start date flexible base on availability) 

Salary and benefits: $45,000/year; full health benefits; intern is responsible for travel and housing 

Application Due Date: January 17^th, 2022 or sooner; applications will be reviewed as received 

 

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases marine mammals and inspires ocean stewardship through research, education, and collaboration. As part of our mission of education, we offer a 1-year clinical veterinary internship that provides training in wild marine mammal medicine, rehabilitation, husbandry, necropsy and research for veterinarians interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal medicine and conservation. 

The Veterinary Intern will be trained by our clinical veterinarians, medical team and animal care specialists. This one-year internship will provide experience in pinniped husbandry, physical examination, medical treatments, anesthesia, phlebotomy, radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy and surgery. In addition, the selected candidate will participate in marine mammal stranding response, triage, stabilization, transport and necropsy of pinnipeds, dolphins and whales.  

The Intern will have the opportunity to pursue one or more clinical or research projects, with the goal of a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. In addition, the intern will mentor veterinary externs and visiting graduate students during their clinical rotations through the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, as well as work with our animal care, docents and education teams. 

Requirements and Preferences 

• Must have Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM, VMD) from U.S. AVMA accredited veterinary school 
• Must have or be able to obtain a State of California veterinary medical license prior to or within 1 month of starting internship 
• Must have completed 1-year clinical veterinary internship (or practice experience) in small, large or exotic animal medicine 
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds, be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and maintain a safe work environment 
• Hours and availability: 40 hours per week; must be available for afterhours emergencies, weekends and holidays. 
• Preference will be given to those with marine mammal and/or research experience 
• Ability to provide excellent medical care to patients  
• Excellent communication skills to staff, volunteers and the general public 
• Ability to accurately and effectively completed medical records 

 

To apply, please include the below materials (PDF saved with the applicant’s name): 

1. Cover letter including available start date 
2. Curriculum vitae (including 3 contacts for references) 
3. One letter of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's clinical performance  

All materials should be submitted to Dr. Alissa Deming by January 17^th, 2022 or sooner: 

      To: hospital@pacificmmc.org 

      Subject: 2022 Veterinary Internship