The Aquarium of the Pacific is accepting applications for the marine mammal photo ID internship. Click the following link to begin your application

http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/volunteer/college_internships/marine_mammal_photo_id_internship

The purpose of the photo ID intern position is to give candidates experience in the process of collecting sighting photos and data in the field and preparing that material for later research. Photo ID interns will be collecting data on various cetaceans (dolphins, blue whales, humpbacks, fin whales, gray whales, etc.) while on whale watches. Primary responsibilities of the position include but are not limited, to handling photography equipment, participating in whale watches in various weather conditions, uploading photos and data to our database, and processing photos and sighting data for further utilization.

Commitment: 240 hours total, average 15-20 hours per week for 12-15 weeks

Interns will receive training and experience in the following

Learning the methods of wildlife observation and data collection in the field

Using DSLR photography equipment

Taking dorsal and caudal fin photos of animals encountered during daily whale watches

Maintaining detailed data logs of sightings

Create a project to display to Aquarium guests using whale data

Photo processing with Adobe Lightroom and data entry with Microsoft Access

What the Aquarium of the Pacific expects from interns

The drive and ability to learn tasks quickly and well

To perform all of their assigned duties promptly and reliably

To be prompt and on time

To exercise care and judgment when working on a boat

To abide by all Aquarium of the Pacific staff guidelines and policies

The ability to meet the minimum time commitments of the position

Qualifications

Must be 18 years of age or older

Completed and pass a background check

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

Basic knowledge of ecological and biological principles

Some background knowledge of marine mammals

Strong communication skills to transmit information to staff, visitors and whale watch participants in a clear and thorough manner

Ability to manage multiple tasks

Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs on stairs, boats, docks, etc.

Prior experience with DSLR cameras or photo software is preferred but not required

Requirements

Must complete general orientation session

Research project completed during internship period (to be determined by student in collaboration with program coordinator)

James Stewart

Education Supervisor

Aquarium of the Pacific