About the role#
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is hiring an Animal Care Intern for the Winter 2027 term. You will assist staff with the daily care of native fish, reptiles, and native or exotic amphibians. This role involves a mix of independent husbandry tasks and individual project work. You will also have the opportunity to assist with large-scale aquarium renovations and installations during your time here.
What you'll do#
- Prepare diets and feed animals.
- Clean and maintain enclosures in both exhibit and back of house areas.
- Administer medications as needed.
- Create and install naturalistic habitats.
- Handle animals safely.
- Keep daily records of husbandry tasks and animal wellbeing.
- Research natural history and captive husbandry practices.
- Create and deliver 20 to 30 minute educational programs regarding natural history, conservation, or captive care.
What you'll need#
- You are reliable, detail-oriented, and enthusiastic.
- You are willing to get wet or dirty while working.
- You can work independently to complete your assigned tasks.
- You can occasionally lift or relocate up to 60 pounds.
- Preference is given to students majoring in animal science, wildlife biology, pre-vet, aquaculture, environmental science, or related fields.
Location & details#
- This role is located in Burlington, Vermont.
- This is a paid, part-time position.
- The term runs from January 2027 through May 2027.
- You are expected to work 12 hours per week.
- Work takes place on-site, primarily indoors, with occasional outdoor collection trips that may involve wading or hiking.
About ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
ECHO is a science and nature museum situated on the Lake Champlain waterfront in Burlington, Vermont. Founded in 2003, the organization operates as a nonprofit and serves as the public face of the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. The facility houses over 70 species of live animals within a LEED certified building. It focuses on science education and the ecology of the Champlain Basin.
How to get in at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
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