Dive Operations Intern

Kansas City Zoo & AquariumDive Operations InternLEARNING OBJECTIVES:The Dive Operations Internship serves as an opportunity to receive hands-on training in the Dive Safety Program. Under direct supervision, the Dive Operations Intern will perform routine work assignments to help gain a better understanding of the procedures involved in commercial and scientific diving. Additionally, this position will regularly perform dives to support the maintenance and care of Zoo & Aquarium habitats.TIME COMMITMENT:This is a 2-month summer internship, working up to 40 hours per week. The schedule for this internship primarily occurs Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00-5:00pm, but may occasionally require weekend or evening hours. Specific start and end dates may vary based upon individual availability and departmental needs.ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:Interns are responsible for arranging their own transportation and housing.POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:DutiesPercentageParticipates in regular dive activities to maintain habitats, including but not limited to:Cleaning, scrubbing, and general upkeep of animal habitats and surrounding areas.Learning how to be a standby tender for dives.Learning how to properly utilize cleaning tools, such as a gravel vacuum.Collecting discarded animal enrichment items.65%Learns how to perform routine maintenance of dive areas and SCUBA equipment including, but not limited to: power washing floors, cleaning locker rooms, changing rinse bins, monitoring compressors, inspecting regulators, rinsing buoyancy compensators, repairing wetsuits, and filling cylinders.20%Learns how to accurately maintain dive plans and logs, as well as any additional paperwork.5%Learns how to assist with safety drills, as well as the dive training and evaluation process for all divers.5%Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and staff, including:* Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium.* Learning to work professionally as part of a team.5%* This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.* All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate.Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field preferred.Must have and maintain an Open Water Certification from an internationally recognized organization. Advanced Open Water Certification or higher, desired.Must have completed a minimum of 20 dives; must have completed 2 dives within the past 12 months of applying.Must have or be able to obtain First Aid, CPR, AED, and O2 Certifications.Equipment Technician Training desired (Scuba Pro, Zeagle, Cylinder Visual Inspections, etc.).EXPERIENCE:Basic knowledge of animal behavior welcomed.Strong observational skills, which will be used to recognize conditions of animal behavior, as well as maintain diver safety.Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:Must pass a Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Dive Physical.Must pass a Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Swim test and Open Water Skills Check.Must be willing to dive in extreme temperatures (450 F), and in the presence of animals (fish, penguins).Dive tasks require manual dexterity and ability to safely use tools (e.g. brushes) and operate equipment (e.g. operation/manipulation of dive gear).Must have valid driver's license.Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.Must be able to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, employees, or the public.Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.Must pass a background and drug screening.Salary$15.00/HourHow to Applyhttps://hcm.paycor.com/l/r/B02E9364Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium6800 Zoo DriveKansas City, MO 64132Phone: (816) 595-1234Visit our website