The intern will undergo training to meet the standard of Scientific Aquarium Diver in Training and participate in dive operations including, but not limited to:

• SCUBA checkout dive/skills assessment and development session(s)
• Academic topics in dive science beyond the beginner diver level to include dive physics, physiology, dive emergency response, appropriate dive planning, dive standards
• Divers Alert Network Dive First Aid training, covering topics in first aid, CPR, emergency oxygen administration, Hazardous marine life and neurological assessment in a dive emergency
• Rescue diver training for habitat dives
• Appropriate disinfection of aquarium dive equipment and record keeping thereof
• Basics of underwater animal husbandry considerations
• Tending dives using Hookah supplied air, and providing Topside Support to SCUBA & Hookah dives
• Full Face Mask diving introduction
• Dive logging and required records for meeting the scientific dive exemption
• Public Presentations: Conducting a dive presentation in conjunction with Conservation Engagement interpreters in the Northwest Waters habitat
• Safe handling and filling of high-pressure SCUBA cylinders
• Potential for dry suit orientation

Dives

• Following initial training the intern would have the opportunity to participate in day-to-day dive operations for the purposes of husbandry, presentations, and support of the Eye-to-Eye shark dive program

Equipment Maintenance

• Learn the general equipment maintenance needs for SCUBA and Hookah
• Learn to troubleshoot and overhaul BCD inflators
• Observe SCUBA cylinder visual inspections
• Observe a SCUBA regulator overhaul
• Learn basic troubleshooting of a SCUBA regulator

Certifications

• Some Interns may have the opportunity to complete a variety of these dive certifications during their internship: Rescue Diver, Scientific Aquarium Diver, DAN First Aid (dive specific first aid training created by Divers Alert Network)

Public Dive Program

• Introduction to a public guest dive program
• Presentation practice in shark conservation messaging
• Considerations for supporting visitors who need accommodation including use of a Hoyer lift for entry/exit
• Supervising noncertified divers as safety diver
• Emergency response training & practice

Field Dive Operations

• Not Guaranteed: Depending on season, intern interest and PDZA capacity
• Some interns may have the opportunity to have minimal involvement in field dive operations in a support role. This could include an introduction to boating and field dive operations for research purposes.

Application Process: 

1. Complete the online application & supplemental questions
2. Upload a cover letter highlighting your career goals
3. Undergo a phone, online and/or onsite interview
4. If selected for the internship, complete an evaluation by PDZA dive physician for approval for scientific diving

For questions please contact: heidi.wilken@pdza.org 

Physical Demands: Interns must be capable of the following physical requirements:

• Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Pushing, climbing, walking, kneeling and crouching.

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools.

• Ability to enter and exit dive areas while wearing full SCUBA or Hookah equipment.

• Ability to egress another diver in emergency

Hazards:

• Exposure to risks associated with SCUBA diving, to include decompression sickness, lung overexpansion injury, hypo and hyperthermia.

• Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals.

• Exposure to animal bodily fluids/products.

• Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise.

• Contact with dissatisfied visitors.

Environment:

• Indoor and outdoor environment throughout the year

• Adverse weather conditions.

• Various water temperatures.

• Confined or dark work areas.