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Aquarium Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DISCOVERY WORLD LTD

Fall Aquarist Intern

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$12.50/hr

Fall Reiman Aquarium Internship * Reports to: General Aquarium Curator and Aquarists * Schedule: 8am-4pm, two days per week for a maximum total of 200 hours over a 4-month period from September ...

DISCOVERY WORLD LTD

Fall Aquarist Intern

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$12.50/hr

Fall Reiman Aquarium Internship * Reports to: General Aquarium Curator and Aquarists * Schedule: 8am-4pm, two days per week for a maximum total of 200 hours over a 4-month period from September ...

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 ...

New York Aquarium

Sharks Intern - Fall 2026

New York, NY · Hybrid

$1.3K - $2.0K/wk

Sharks Internship- Fall 2026 Location: New York Aquarium Department: Animal Duration & Schedule: Fall - September - December * Current students * 5 days/week: 10 or 12-week program * 4 days/week: 10, ...

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 Jul 28, 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.
More about Aquarium Internship jobs
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Aquarium Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Internship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 6% Contract, 2% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Fish & Invertebrate Intern - Fall 2026

Fish & Invertebrate Intern - Fall 2026

New York Aquarium

New York, NY

$1.0K - $2.0K/wk

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Fish & Invertebrate Intern - Fall 2026
Location: New York Aquarium
Department: Animal
Duration: Fall 2026 (September- December)
Schedule: 2, 3, or 4 days per week for 15 weeks with at least one weekend day per week. 
Stipend: $1,000 - $2,000 total stipend depending on # of days per week to be paid as one lump sum upon successful completion of the position less applicable taxes.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by August 14, 2026. The position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

 

Overview: 

This internship is designed to be an important entrypoint for someone looking for a career working with animals. Interns will receive a well rounded training course in aquatic animal husbandry. This includes learning about exhibit and life support maintenance, diet preparation, feeding, quarantine protocols, and assessing water quality parameters. Interns will also have the chance to observe medical procedures, transports, and arrival of new animals. Interns will complete a project based on their interest and internship learning outcomes. 
 

Learning Outcomes:

  • Interns will learn about life support systems, design, and problem solving within aquariums.
  • Interns will spend the first half of the position learning about invertebrates such as jellyfish and cephalopods; they will spend the second half focusing on teleosts and corals.
  • Interns will learn about dietary needs, animal health, water quality, and quarantine procedures.
  • Interns will learn about the essential role that zoos and aquariums play in conservation.
  • Interns will complete a project on a topic of their choice in collaboration with the internship coordinator. 

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