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Dolphin Quest Bermuda - Junior Apprentice Program

Dolphin Quest Bermuda's Junior Apprentice program is designed to inspire students to pursue a career within the marine mammal field. Participants will work directly with our staff and will be assisting with all aspects of daily operations at a dolphin interaction facility. Space within this program is limited.

Who - This opportunity is available to local Bermudian students, ages 12-17. The candidate must meet the following criteria:

A positive attitude and approach to daily operations
A strong willingness to learn
Good academic record
An interest in pursuing a position within the marine mammal field
The ability to contribute to a team atmosphere
Reliable transportation to and from the DQ facility
Obtain written permission from parent or guardian
Obtain one letter of recommendation
Able to attend orientation with parent or guardian
Comfortable in deep water
Willing to work outside year round

What - Dolphin Quest’s Junior Apprentice program is a hands-on learning experience, where participants work along-side the Dolphin Quest Bermuda Crew. Junior Apprentices spend time learning all aspects of the Dolphin Quest workplace that may include, but is not limited to, items listed below.

Learning and applying Dolphin Quest values* (see below)
Animal identification
Dolphin and program observation
Fish bucket preparation
Vitamin fish preparation
Note taking
Record keeping

Guest services interaction, including wet-suiting and life-jacketing guests
Fish room clean-up
Interaction with guests
Preparation of masks and toys
Facility maintenance and care
Provide assistance to trainers
Assist with other departments

The duties of the individual apprentice will vary based on the effort put forth and their individual learning curve. They will also learn how to work and succeed in a professional environment. Apprentices may be invited to take part in field trips and lectures organized by the intern coordinator.

*Dolphin Quest places a high priority on actualizing our core values:

Character and integrity
Open communication
Outside-the-box thinking and creativity
Loyalty and dedication

Personal and professional growth
Lots of fun and enjoyment
Animal health and well-being
Conservation and global stewardship
Excellence and professionalism
Sensational service

When - The program operates from November to August yearly. Students are required to volunteer a minimum of two (2) shifts a month during the school year and two (2) extra shifts per month during school breaks. Students must also contribute a minimum of 20 shifts during their summer break towards the program. Shifts are 4 hours in length, 9am-1:00pm or 1:00pm-5:00pm.

2011-2012 program dates - November 6, 2011 to August 26, 2012.

Where - Dolphin Quest Bermuda, located in the Maritime Museum in Dockyard.

Cost - The apprentice program is offered as a course, accompanied by an annual, non-refundable enrollment fee of $100 (US)

Application - Click here to download

Completed applications can be submitted to Kelly Anne Winfield, Trainer/Junior Apprentice Coordinator, by e-mail or fax please see application for this information.
Correspondence in regards to this program is expected to take part between the applicants and supervisors. Parents are encouraged to mentor their children in this role.
** Please note that participation in the program does not guarantee space in the following year’s program. Students must reapply for subsequent years.

Application Deadline - Friday, September 9, 2011 by 5:30pm

Important Dates for 2011/2012

September 9, 2011 by 5:30pm Application Deadline
September 17, 2011 (10am-12pm) Audition option 1
September 17, 2011 (3pm-5pm) Audition option 2
September 18, 2010 (3pm-5pm) Audition option 3
October 12, 2011 Notification of status on application
November 6, 2011 (3pm-5pm) Mandatory orientation for participants and parents