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- Tasks: Assist our biologists in caring for over 5,000 marine animals and learn essential husbandry skills.
- Company: Join the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK, dedicated to ocean conservation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop skills, and contribute to marine animal welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in marine conservation while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Must be 18 or over; a basic level of fitness is required.
- Other info: Opportunities for internships and industrial placements available; apply early!
Volunteering with our Animal Husbandry Team
The Ocean Conservation Trust runs the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK, as its centre of ocean excellence.
Based in Plymouth, Devon, the National Marine Aquarium has a dedicated and experienced world-class Husbandry team who manage the day-to-day running and development of the exhibits, as well as the management of all our off display back of house areas. Our Husbandry volunteer programme allows students to gain first-hand experience of this unique role and assist our biologists in caring for the health and wellbeing of over 5,000 marine animals.
Volunteers work directly with the Husbandry team, learning basic animal care and husbandry skills while helping us achieve our aim to make the National Marine Aquarium the very best in Europe.
Day to day husbandry tasks include but are not limited to:
- Maintenance of display tanks
- Preparation of food for livestock
- Feeding livestock
- Maintenance of plankton cultures
- Maintenance of off display tanks
- Maintenance of life support systems
- Operant conditioning of individual animals
- Water chemistry analysis
There are different volunteering opportunities within the husbandry team. For all positions, applicants must be aged 18 years or over.
Please note that the National Marine Aquarium is unable to provide financial assistance for any of our volunteering roles. This role is physically demanding and requires a basic level of fitness.
ROLE 1: Husbandry Internships – Currently Closed
Husbandry internships allow volunteers to immerse themselves in the husbandry team for a period of 3 months. The intern will be assigned an area and assist a particular biologist in the day-to-day operations. This role is approximately 37.5 hours a week, based on rota shifts including weekends. A complete rota will be provided before the internship commences.
To apply, please email your completed form to nmavolunteers@oceanconservationtrust.org.
ROLE 2: Year in Industry – Deadline – 31st December 2025
This industrial placement is for students whose degree course requires an industrial placement year of at least 40 weeks. The student will gain exposure across all husbandry areas and assist the team in the aquarium’s development. Students are encouraged to design and implement a research project aligned with the Ocean Conservation Trust’s policy and aims. The project results may contribute to third year dissertations, subject to university approval. This role is 37.5 hours per week (Monday to Friday) and includes working on bank holidays, with accrued holiday entitlement.
To apply, complete the Expression of Interest form and include a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for this position. Placements start on either the first Monday of September or the third Monday of October, so please indicate your preference in the form.
We reserve the right to close these vacancies before the advertised closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received.
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Volunteering With Our Animal Husbandry Team employer: Malaysianwildlife
Contact Detail:
Malaysianwildlife Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteering With Our Animal Husbandry Team
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before you apply, do a bit of research on the Ocean Conservation Trust and their Husbandry team. Follow them on social media, engage with their posts, and show genuine interest in their work. This will help you stand out when you finally get that interview!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers and ask about their experiences. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows your commitment to being part of the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on tasks! Since this role involves physical work and animal care, be ready to discuss your relevant skills and experiences. Think about any previous volunteering or work that involved teamwork, responsibility, or physical activity.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure to submit your application via the official channels. This not only ensures your application is seen but also shows that you're serious about joining the Ocean Conservation Trust's mission. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteering With Our Animal Husbandry Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Marine Life: When you're writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for marine animals and conservation. Share any relevant experiences or studies that highlight your love for the ocean and its creatures!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the role you're applying for. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the tasks mentioned in the job description, like animal care or teamwork.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion shines through without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Malaysianwildlife
✨Know Your Marine Life
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of marine animals and their care. Familiarise yourself with the species at the National Marine Aquarium and understand their specific needs. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Express your enthusiasm for ocean conservation and animal welfare during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects you've been involved in that align with the Ocean Conservation Trust's mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the work.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about practical tasks related to animal husbandry, such as feeding routines or tank maintenance. Think through your answers and be ready to discuss how you would approach these tasks. Demonstrating your understanding of the physical demands of the role is key.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the team dynamics, specific projects, or opportunities for learning and development. This shows your eagerness to engage and learn, making a positive impression on the interviewers.
