The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit in Fort Pierce, Florida is located on the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), the most diverse estuary in the U.S., and less than one mile from the Atlantic Ocean. This unique educational facility provides a window into these underwater worlds, offering a variety of hands-on experiences to daily visitors, as well as programming opportunities. Our focus is on displaying ecosystems as complex communities of organisms interacting in their environments. The six main exhibits are models of local Florida ecosystems (seagrass bed, mangrove forest, coral reef, etc) and vary in size from 500 to 3000 gallons. We also have a touch tank and a variety of smaller displays. With the help of our dynamic displays we strive to provide the public with a better understanding of the fragile marine ecosystems of the IRL and surrounding area and the impact humans are having on these fragile ecosystems. The responsibilities of the Education Intern are to interpret to visitors in the gallery and at the touch tank, lead educational programs for school and community groups, assist education staff with three weeks of summer day camp, and create educational displays. The education intern may also assist aquarium husbandry staff with routine duties, such as tank monitoring, feedings and specimen collection, as needed. Additional objectives can be developed with education staff based on intern’s personal interests, strengths and/or experience.
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience working in an informal education setting (preferred) and/or coursework in science education, a demonstrated ability in effectively communicating with others, a strong interest in marine science, and a willingness/ability to maintain a flexible schedule, including weekends and some holidays. Must be currently enrolled in college
courses or a recent graduate.
TIMETABLE
12-week, full-time (May – Aug)
AWARD PACKAGE
$4200
CONTACT
Laura Diederick
Education Specialist
Smithsonian Marine Station
701 Seaway Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34949
772.465.3271
diederick@si.edu
www.sms.si.edu/smee
