AAR Stranding Intern bei Audubon Nature Institute

Position Title: Stranding Intern

Department: Audubon Aquarium Rescue

Location: Species Survival Center

Duration: January-June 2026 (start and end dates have some flexibility)

Who We Are

Audubon Nature Institute comprises of Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers, we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

Marine mammals and sea turtles can be found sick, injured, or dead along beaches. They can also become entrapped or disoriented and unable to return to their national habitat without assistance. These events are called strandings and require investigations by organizations like Audubon Aquarium Rescue (AAR). In Louisiana, AAR is the primary marine mammal and sea turtle stranding response organization in the state and the only one authorized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and US Fish and Wildlife Service for both stranding response and rehabilitation.

The main objectives of AAR are to enhance stranding response and data collection of marine mammals and sea turtles in Louisiana.  AAR is committed to the humane care and treatment of injured, ill or displaced marine animals. The information collected from stranded animals provides a snapshot into the health of the marine environment and provides a better understanding of threats to marine mammals and sea turtles in the wild.

Day to Day Responsibilities:

Throughout the internship, the intern will become an integral team member and will assist with stranding response, beach surveys, marine mammals and sea turtle necropsies, paperwork, cleaning, vehicle maintenance and animal husbandry. Live animal rehab is possible but should not be expected throughout the duration of the internship. The above-listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

Time Commitment and Compensation:

Due to the unpredictable nature of strandings, interns are required to be in the office 5 days per week (with some weekend coverage), 8 hours a day (with occasional longer hours). The schedule should be considered flexible as one may not exceed 40 hours per week. A weekly stipend of $290 will be offered.

Additional Expectations:

•    Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.

•    Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.

•    Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.

•    Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.

What We’re Looking For

Must Haves:

•    Applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check

•    Ability to work independently or as part of a team

•    Up to date on Tetanus vaccine

•    Positive attitude and ability to work through unpleasant situations

•    Strong observation and communication skills

•    Ability to work around strong odors

•    Have experience using Microsoft Office Suite and Google Drive

•    Legally authorized to work in the US

Nice to Haves:

•    Experience driving UTVs

•    Previous marine mammal or sea turtle experience

•    Interest in research

Physical Requirements:

This position involves manual labor and work in all outdoor weather conditions, including but not limited to extreme heat and humidity, precipitation, and freezing temperatures. Interns must be comfortable with physical challenges including, but not limited to, walking/standing for extended periods of time, lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling heavy objects, climbing stairs and ladders, kneeling, scrubbing, etc. Intern must be able to follow both written and verbal instructions and effectively communicate with other staff. Interns must be able to understand and follow all Audubon and departmental safety protocols.