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Aquarium Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SC AQUARIUM

Herpetology Intern (Unpaid)

Charleston, SC · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Follow aquarium safety and animal protocols * Become familiar with AZA animal care and welfare ... Intern will be trained on the use of our databases; prior database experience is a plus. * Clear ...

Prestige Aquatics

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Paid Aquarist Intern

Paducah, KY · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Job Title: Paid Aquarist Intern Department: Aquatic Life Department Reports To: President Job ... Aquarium Maintenance: * Participate in routine cleaning and maintenance of tanks, ensuring optimal ...

Urgent

Prestige Aquatics

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Paid Aquarist Intern

Paducah, KY · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Job Title: Paid Aquarist Intern Department: Aquatic Life Department Reports To: President Job ... Aquarium Maintenance: * Participate in routine cleaning and maintenance of tanks, ensuring optimal ...

Urgent

OdySea Aquarium

Education Specialist I

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

As part of the OdySea Aquarium Education team, this position will participate in all educational ... of intern and volunteer team members. * Participate in a cooperative working environment that ...

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Aquarium Intern information

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How much do aquarium intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquarium intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are aquarium interns?

Aquarium interns are students or recent graduates who work at aquariums to gain hands-on experience in marine biology, animal care, education, or aquarium operations. They typically assist with feeding animals, maintaining habitats, conducting educational programs, and supporting research projects under the supervision of aquarium staff. An aquarium internship provides valuable practical skills and insight into careers in marine science, animal husbandry, and conservation.

What can I expect in terms of hands-on experience and responsibilities during an aquarium internship?

As an aquarium intern, you can expect to gain substantial hands-on experience by assisting with daily animal care tasks such as feeding, tank cleaning, water quality testing, and observation of animal behaviors. Interns often work closely with aquarists, educators, and veterinary staff, providing support during public presentations and educational programs. The role typically involves a mix of routine husbandry duties and special projects, offering insight into both animal care and aquarium operations. This collaborative environment allows interns to develop practical skills and build professional relationships, which can be valuable for future careers in marine biology or aquatic husbandry.

What is the difference between Aquarium Intern vs Aquarium Technician?

AspectAquarium InternAquarium Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college education, some certificationsRelevant certifications (e.g., SCUBA, aquatic animal care), technical training
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, aquariums, internships for learningProfessional aquariums, public and private facilities, hands-on maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, aquariums, zoosAquarium facilities, marine parks, research centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level learning role, gaining experienceTechnical, hands-on maintenance and animal care

While both roles involve working with aquatic animals and environments, an Aquarium Intern is typically a learning position for students or entry-level individuals gaining experience. An Aquarium Technician is a more technical, hands-on role responsible for maintenance, animal care, and facility operations. Interns often work under supervision, whereas technicians perform specialized tasks independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aquarium Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquarium Intern, you generally need a background in biology, marine science, or a related field, often supported by coursework or volunteer experience in animal care. Familiarity with water quality testing kits, animal husbandry protocols, and data entry systems is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and a genuine passion for marine life make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of aquatic animals and for supporting the daily operations of the aquarium.
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Aquarium Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Intern job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Fish and Invertebrate Intern, Fall 2026

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

Gulfport, MS

$14 - $19/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

POSITION 

Position Title: Fish & Invertebrates Intern 
Department:Animal Care and Conservation 
Classification: Seasonal, Unpaid, Educational Internship 
Direct Report: Aquatics Intern Coordinators 
From: August 31st, 2026 - December 20th, 2026 
Application Deadline: July 10th, 2026 
Selection Date: August 3rd, 2026 

POSITION SUMMARY 

  • Ability to work full-time, at least 2 days per week, for 16 weeks 
  • Ability to perform physically demanding job duties daily 
  • Daily interaction with fellow team members and the public 
  • Excellent observation and communication skills 
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that sustain a positive and professional environment 
  • A valid driver's license and ability to travel to and from work 
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, and possible late hours 
  • Ability to find and secure housing for the duration of the internship 
  • Ability to work with and around various fish and crustaceans 
QUALIFICATIONS 

  • 18 years of age or older 
  • Enrolled in or recent graduate of a four-year college program in biology, marine biology, or another related field 
  • Applicants should consider themselves hardworking, dedicated, and reliable. 
  • Previous animal care experience, such as volunteering at an animal shelter or completing other animal care internships preferred 
POSITION ATTRIBUTES 

This position requires a highly motivated individual who will take direction from the Curator, Supervisor, and Animal Care Staff in assisting with the animal care routine and maintenance for the fish, aquatic reptile, and invertebrate area. As an intern, you can expect to get hands-on experience in the daily care of our fresh and saltwater aquariums and learn what it takes to be an aquarist. Throughout the internship, interns will learn various tasks required for the daily operation of multiple fresh and saltwater systems; gain valuable knowledge in water chemistry, aquarium life support systems, aquatic biology, and quarantine systems; and develop skills in time management, communication, and teamwork. The position will also be responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards. The goal is to help interns succeed professionally in any chosen field. 

Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.  

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the Intern for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Assists animal care staff in the overall daily care of the freshwater and saltwater fish, aquatic reptile, and invertebrate collection 
  • Performs proper animal diet preparation 
  • Keeps support areas clean, organized, and safe 
  • Builds knowledge of water chemistry and aquarium life support systems 
  • Supports educational presentations through formal and informal public speaking opportunities 
  • Ensures guest satisfaction by delivering exceptional customer service 
  • Complies with all standard operating procedures (SOPs) pertaining to daily operations and safety 
  • Promotes conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks 
  • Undertakes special projects as assigned by manager(s) 
TEAM REQUIREMENTS  

  • Safety & Security- All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards. 
  • Attendance & Appearance- To maximize the guest's experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine that tattoos will need to be covered during your shift. 
  • Sales & Guest Services- Our forward-thinking business model requires listening to and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience, which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales. 
  • Team Partnership- All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization. 
PHYSICALDEMANDS &WORK ENVIRONMENT  

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an Intern to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the Intern is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The Intern must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the Intern is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

 
Employment Type: OTHER

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