New hire FAQs

internship_faqpgWhat should I do for transportation?
A car in the Keys is practical because everything is spread out. Other options for transportation include a bike, local bus service, taxis, and staff who may willing to give rides to and from work.

What should I do for accommodations?
New employees are responsible for arranging their own accommodations.

Some staff members rent rooms at more affordable costs. If you are interested, please contact us here and select “Careers and Internships.”

What do I wear?
Theater of the Sea shirts are provided.
It is recommended that you bring the following items:

  • Comfortable rubber soled foot wear that can get wet. Most staff wear flip flops.
  • Navy shorts of moderate length and fit. You may get bleach on your shorts so it is recommended that you have shorts made of nylon or some other synthetic material.
  • Windbreaker type pants and jacket for cool weather and foul weather gear.
  • Bathing suit. A navy blue one-piece may be worn as uniform instead of a shirt; any other color may be worn under shirt.
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat.

Please do not wear any nail polish or jewelry.

What hours will I work?
You will typically work five days a week, 8 hours a day, either 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

What are my days off?
Your schedule, including days off, will be given to you on your first day.

On my first day what time should I arrive and who and where do I meet?
You should park in the main parking lot and contact the employee training supervisor at the time specified via email prior to your start date.

Where do I place my belongings at work?
There is a locker for belongings and a refrigerator for lunches.

What do I do for lunch?
You can bring your own or purchase if from Papa’s Grill, located on the property. The Grill offers an employee meal price.

How will I be evaluated?
New staff are given several written quizzes to assess their progress and are evaluated by the staff member on areas such as public relations, initiative, attitude, dependability, and attendance.

How do I get school credit for an internship?
University accreditation for completion of the internship program is common and must be coordinated by the student through his or her school. Theater of the Sea will provide validation of participation upon completion.

Will I be able to work with the animals?
Your direct involvement with the animals will depend on the facility needs and schedules, the animals, the staff, and your abilities.