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Share What You Learn
Help guests notice more, ask questions and leave with a better understanding of the animals and aquatic world around them.
Open 11 am - 4 pm
Volunteer
Volunteer at Mertailor
There Are Plenty of Ways to Make a Difference Beyond the Glass
Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter may be a small aquarium, but it takes a lot of hands, care and heart to create the experience our guests see each day. Volunteers help us welcome families, share knowledge, care for our spaces and support the work happening behind the scenes.
If you enjoy marine life, working with people, learning something new and being part of a hands-on local organization, we'd love to hear from you.
Local people helping care for a local aquarium on Florida's Nature Coast.
Why Volunteer?
Be Part of What Makes Mertailor Work
Our volunteers are part of the everyday rhythm of the aquarium. Some enjoy talking with guests. Some would rather lend a hand behind the scenes. Others are interested in learning more about animals, husbandry, education or aquarium operations.
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Support the Aquarium
An aquarium requires constant attention. Volunteers can help our staff with the many everyday tasks that keep the facility welcoming and moving forward.
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Learn Along the Way
Gain hands-on experience, build communication skills and learn more about what goes into operating an independent public aquarium.
A Hands-On Place
What Might I Do as a Volunteer?
Volunteer assignments are based on the aquarium's current needs, your interests, your training and the responsibilities you're prepared to take on.
Guest & Education Support
Talk with visitors, help answer questions and encourage curiosity
about the animals and exhibits around them.
Facility & Exhibit Support
Help keep public spaces, exhibit areas and other parts of the
aquarium clean, organized and ready for our guests.
Animal-Care Support
Qualified volunteers may assist with designated husbandry or
animal-care activities after appropriate training and under staff supervision.
Programs, Events & Outreach
Opportunities may include assisting with educational programs,
special events and community activities as needs arise.
The Real Aquarium Stuff
It's Not All Mermaids and Stingrays
Some of the most useful work in an aquarium isn't glamorous. There are things to clean, organize, carry, prepare and maintain every day. A willingness to pitch in where needed matters here.
We're looking for people who appreciate both sides of the experience: the magic guests see and the everyday work that makes it possible.
Helping guests feel welcome
Cleaning and maintaining spaces
Learning procedures and following directions
Supporting staff when help is needed
Respecting animals and their habitats
Showing up when you've committed to be here
Is Volunteering Right for You?
Who We're Looking For
You don't need to arrive knowing everything about aquariums. A genuine interest in learning, a dependable attitude and respect for both people and animals matter much more.
- You are at least 18 years old.
- You have a genuine interest in marine life, animals or environmental education.
- You are willing to learn and follow established procedures.
- You can communicate respectfully with guests, staff and other volunteers.
- You understand that volunteering is a commitment and dependable attendance matters.
- You are willing to help with practical, everyday tasks when needed.
Animal Care Comes First
Working Around Animals Comes With Responsibility
Volunteers who assist with husbandry or animal-related activities do so only in designated areas and under appropriate supervision. Assignments depend on training, competency and the aquarium's operational needs.
Animal-health decisions, veterinary treatment and other professional responsibilities remain with qualified aquarium staff and veterinary professionals. Following instructions and speaking up when you're unsure are important parts of working safely around the animals in our care.
Getting Started
How to Apply
Interested in joining us? Starting the process is simple.
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Download the Application
Complete our volunteer application and tell us a little about yourself, your availability and why you'd like to become involved.
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Send It to Mertailor
Email your completed application to info@themertailor.com, or bring it to the aquarium during regular business hours.
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We'll Review It
Our team will review your application based on current volunteer needs, availability and where your interests may fit within the aquarium.
Our Nature Coast Community
Help Grow Something Special Here in Citrus County
Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter is an independent aquarium located in Lecanto, Florida, just minutes from Crystal River. We're proud to be part of Citrus County and Florida's Nature Coast.
Volunteering here is an opportunity to support a local attraction while helping families connect with sharks, rays, fish, rescued and rehomed animals, educational exhibits and the underwater world in a more personal setting.
Want to get to know the aquarium before applying? Plan a visit or explore our aquarium exhibits.
Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter
4100 W. Gulf to Lake Hwy
Lecanto, FL 34461
Located in Citrus County, just minutes from Crystal River on Florida's Nature Coast.
Email info@themertailor.com
Phone (352) 513-3278
Volunteer FAQ
A Few Things to Know
Do I need aquarium experience?
No previous aquarium experience is required for general volunteer consideration. Training and assignments depend on the role and responsibilities involved.
How old do I need to be?
Our current volunteer program is for applicants age 18 and older.
Will I work directly with animals?
Not every volunteer assignment involves direct animal care. Designated husbandry opportunities depend on training, competency, supervision and the aquarium's current needs.
Can I choose exactly what I do?
We'll consider your interests, but volunteer assignments are matched with operational needs and the areas where you're trained and able to help.
Is volunteering a regular commitment?
Dependability matters. Our team relies on volunteers who communicate clearly and follow through on the days and responsibilities they've agreed to.
Where is the aquarium located?
We're at 4100 W. Gulf to Lake Hwy in Lecanto, Florida, in Citrus County and just minutes from Crystal River.
Join Our Crew
Think You'd Be a Good Fit?
If you're ready to learn, pitch in and become part of the community behind Mertailor's Mermaid Aquarium Encounter, complete a volunteer application and introduce yourself. We'd love to learn more about you.