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Aquarium Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OdySea Aquarium

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Interns will work alongside OdySea Aquarium Aquarists in a supportive and supervised role with the opportunity to work with a large collection of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), freshwater and ...

ODYSEA AQUARIUM LLC

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Interns will work alongside OdySea Aquarium Aquarists in a supportive and supervised role with the opportunity to work with a large collection of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), freshwater and ...

ODYSEA AQUARIUM LLC

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Interns will work alongside OdySea Aquarium Aquarists in a supportive and supervised role with the opportunity to work with a large collection of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), freshwater and ...

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How much do aquarium internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquarium internship in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 need a foundational understanding of marine biology or animal science, typically gained through coursework or related experience. Familiarity with aquarium maintenance tools, water quality testing kits, and animal care protocols is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help interns work effectively with staff and ensure animal welfare. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting daily operations, maintaining healthy aquatic environments, and contributing to educational and conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Aquarium Internship vs Aquarium Technician?

AspectAquarium InternshipAquarium Technician
Required CredentialsTypically students or entry-level candidates, some may have relevant courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in aquatic systems or animal care often preferred
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, aquariums, research facilitiesPublic aquariums, zoos, marine parks, private facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning, assisting with daily tasks, gaining experienceMaintaining tanks, feeding animals, cleaning, monitoring systems

While an Aquarium Internship offers hands-on learning and entry-level experience, an Aquarium Technician is a more skilled role requiring specific certifications and responsibilities in maintaining aquatic environments. Internships are ideal for those exploring the field, whereas technicians perform ongoing operational tasks.

What is an aquarium internship?

An aquarium internship is a temporary position, often for students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience working in an aquarium setting. Interns may assist with animal care, educational programs, research projects, and daily operations. These internships are designed to help individuals gain practical skills and knowledge in marine biology, animal husbandry, environmental education, and conservation. The experience can be valuable for those considering careers in marine science, education, or animal care. Internships are typically unpaid or offer a small stipend and may require a commitment of several weeks to several months.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an aquarium internship?

As an aquarium intern, you'll typically gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, assisting with feeding, cleaning tanks, monitoring animal health, and preparing enrichment activities. Interns often work closely with aquarists and educators, learning about aquatic species and their habitats while also participating in public outreach or educational programs. This role provides a well-rounded exposure to daily aquarium operations and is a valuable stepping stone for careers in marine biology, animal care, or environmental education.
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Aquarium Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 63% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

MBA Intern & CSUMB UROC Husbandry Exhibit Internship

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey, CA • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices working together increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all walks of life into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
The deadline to apply to this opportunity is September 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM PST.
Job summary:
The Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA) is seeking a qualified candidate to participate in the Monterey Bay Aquarium Internship Program (MBAIP), California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) Husbandry Exhibit Internship program under the guidance of the Husbandry Operations Fish and Invertebrate team.
The primary reporting area will be the Drifters and Schooling Fishes galleries with additional task assignments that may include assisting in the Into the Deep exhibit and holding spaces. This internship is designed to provide students with an in-depth exposure to jelly biology and culture work and involves training in a variety of protocols such as exhibit maintenance, diet preparation, animal handling, data recording, and animal behavioral observations. Mentors will supervise interns in the development of a research project to be conducted during the internship and presented upon completion of the term.
Core Responsibilities
  • Daily exhibit maintenance including acrylic care, siphoning, cleaning, and aqua-scaping
  • Maintenance of aquatic animal holding systems
  • Cleaning and organization of service areas and behind-the-scenes workspaces
  • Diet preparation and feeding of both live and frozen seafood items
  • Culturing and harvesting of live food items (brine shrimp larvae, rotifers, copepods)
  • Maintenance and feeding of jelly culture systems
  • Completion of a husbandry-related research project on laboratory culture methods for jellies, comb jellies, and general aquaculture methods for other aquatic animals to be presented at the end of the internship
  • Physical task requirements can include: handling chemicals, kneeling, bending, lifting, squatting, climbing ladders, scrubbing, and sweeping

Absolutely Required Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Must be a current student at an accredited college or university, or graduated during the term immediately preceding the internship
  • Must submit a cover letter and resume of relevant coursework and/or experience related to the position applying for
  • Must provide a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation from college/university professors or faculty/staff
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  • Schedule requirements include a minimum commitment of 16 hours per week with total cumulative hours not to exceed 520 for the duration of the internship, which will span the fall and spring semesters
  • Proof of current tetanus and COVID-19 vaccination
  • Able to lift and carry up to 40lbs
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision
  • Tolerant of wet and dirty environments, and able to work in cold water temperatures (~52F) for extended periods at a time
  • Able to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Able to work comfortably around animals in a frequently-changing environment

Desired Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education
  • At least one-weekend workday preferred
  • Attention to detail in working with delicate animals
  • Strong interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science/ecology
  • Usage of tools such as Image J and R
  • Interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint

Ancillary Responsibilities
  • Animal health observations
  • Guest interaction/interpretation

This internship is a paid STEM internship opportunity. Pay rate is $18.00 USD per hour.
College credit may also be available. Please refer to your College/University's student services division.
Early submission of applications is encouraged.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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