©2017 New England Aquarium, an affiliate of the HandsOn Connect, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 | 617 - 973 - 5200
Penguin Wellbeing Monitor
Penguin Wellbeing Monitors (PWMs) aid the wellbeing of our Penguin Colony by providing a watchful eye on both species of penguins and their habitats while engaging with Aquarium visitors about the animals and their responsibilities as PWM. Monitors may aid penguin trainers by conducting specific observations of animals and their habitats, monitoring visitor behavior, gathering data, and recordkeeping. Information collected will help penguin staff gain additional perspective of animal behavior and wellbeing, with regular progress reports provided by penguin staff. Don't know a lot about penguins or unsure how to correct visitor behavior? Don't worry! We provide in-person and online training/mentorship to prepare volunteers with all the necessary skills, fun facts, and confidence that the position requires.
Required Commitment:
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After passing a screening process and interview with the Office of Volunteer Programs and Internships:
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Attend one in-person training class and then complete our online training program:
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Thursday, April 24, 9:30am-3pm (with a break)
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Saturday, April 26, 9:30am-3pm
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Complete 6 shifts within three months of training date.
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Shifts occur daily from 11:00am - 2:00pm
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Responsibilities:
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Monitor the penguins and their habitats, providing information to the penguin team based on specific observations.
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Communicate with trainers in the event of fallen objects or other animal concerns in the exhibit.
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Monitor and correct visitor behavior.
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Answer questions from the public; explain purpose of data collection and its impact on animal wellbeing.
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Training is required and available free of charge to volunteers and includes topics such as:
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Penguin identification, behavior, and ethograms.
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Penguin wellbeing
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Basic biology/conservation and climate change concerns
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Visitor and animal safety
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Public speaking skills
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Data analysis
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Communicating science and husbandry effectively with different age groups.
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Qualifications:
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Able to stand for long periods of time.
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Able to communicate effectively in noisy and crowded conditions.
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Enthusiasm in working with a high volume of aquarium visitors.
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Able to see full color spectrum.
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Willingness to learn about African Penguins, Southern Rockhopper Penguins, and their exhibit.
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At least 18 years old.
To Apply
Please register an account here , then click "Submit an Application" in the menu bar. If you already have an account, please log in and click "Submit an Application".
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