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Aquarium Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New York Aquarium

Federal Legislative Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$17 - $22/hr

Federal Legislative Intern Dates: September to December 2026, with flexible start and end dates to ... WCS combines the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City and a Global Conservation ...

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Aquarium Intern information

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How much do aquarium intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 is an aquarium intern?

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 does an aquarium intern do?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aquarium intern?

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.

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.

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Aquarium Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Federal Legislative Intern

New York Aquarium

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$17 - $22/hr

Internship

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Department:Public Affairs 
Title:Federal Legislative Intern 
Dates:September to December 2026, with flexible start and end dates to accommodate academic schedules
Number of Openings: 2 - 3 
Location:Options for remote or hybrid schedules 
Hours: 14-30 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate class schedules
Position Summary: 
The Federal Affairs office of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) seeks motivated, enthusiastic, and detail-oriented Federal Affairs interns. This internship is designed to provide experience in legislative and governmental affairs, policy, and the Congressional appropriations process. The intern will gain experience in shaping environmental policy to protect wildlife and natural resources on a global scale while learning about the legislative process first-hand. Possible topics for projects include nature-based solutions to climate change, combating wildlife trafficking, and federal funding for international conservation, ocean conservation, and endangered species conservation. This internship is unpaid but will provide academic credit if applicable. Interns will have the option of remote or hybrid schedules. 
WCS combines the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City and a Global Conservation Program in more than 50 countries to achieve its mission to save wildlife and wild places. WCS runs the world's largest conservation field program, protecting more than 50 percent of Earth's known biodiversity; in partnership with governments, Indigenous People, Local Communities, and the private sector. Its four zoos and aquarium (the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and the New York Aquarium) welcome more than 3.5 million visitors each year, inspiring generations to care for nature. WCS's Federal Affairs office is an interface between our conservation experts and policy decision-makers in Washington, D.C. 
Objectives: 

  • Help track developments in Congress and relevant Federal Agencies related to wildlife conservation, natural resources management, and foreign policy. 

  • Learn to identify potential Congressional allies and environmental policy priorities. 

  • Research and analyze legislation related to wildlife conservation, natural resources management, and foreign policy. 

  • Have the opportunity to attend virtual Capitol Hill related briefings, hearings, and events. 

  • Learn about and gain experience in developing and implementing Congressional engagement strategies, working in coalitions, and the federal budget and appropriations process. 

Apply