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Aquarium Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tennessee Aquarium

Aquarist Fellowship

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$16/hr

The Aquarium hopes this experience will help guide and empower conservation-minded students to ... Able to commit to the full internship of 120 hours during the Fall 2026 semester * Able to climb ...

Tennessee Aquarium

Aquarist Fellowship

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$16/hr

The Aquarium hopes this experience will help guide and empower conservation-minded students to ... Able to commit to the full internship of 120 hours during the Fall 2026 semester * Able to climb ...

New York Aquarium

Federal Legislative Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$17 - $22/hr

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 ...

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Spring 2027 Intern

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working marine animal hospital. We offer internships in businesss, marketing, HR, marine biology, animal care, aquatic biology, rescue, rehab, education and guest ...

The Maritime Aquarium

Aquarist I - Jellies

Norwalk, CT · On-site

$21.13/hr

Provide shadowing opportunities for aquarists, interns, and volunteers in routine animal care, safety procedures, and aquarium operation as needed * Participates in collecting trips, animal ...

New York Aquarium

Youth Ocean Advocates

New York, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Internship: Youth Ocean Advocates Location : New York Aquarium Department: Education Duration: October 2026 - June 2027 Schedule : Thursday afternoons 5pm- 7pm in person at the New York Aquarium ...

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Spring 2027 Intern

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working marine animal hospital. We offer internships in businesss, marketing, HR, marine biology, animal care, aquatic biology, rescue, rehab, education and guest ...

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Aquarium Internship information

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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.

Animal Care: Mammals, Birds, and Reptiles Intern

ODYSEA AQUARIUM LLC

Scottsdale, AZ

Internship

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description

As part of OdySea Aquarium's Animal Care Internship program, interns will have the opportunity to work alongside Animal Care Specialists, in a supportive and supervised role, for the care of a diverse animal collection including California sea lions, Asian small-clawed otters, African penguins, psittacines, and small mammals. Interns will be instrumental in daily operations including husbandry and cleaning, diet preparation, and guest education. The curriculum for this internship includes introduction to operant conditioning, public speaking, behavioral seminars, and proper animal care and handling through hands-on experiences. This internship requires 40 hours per week for a total of 16 weeks.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Participate in educational presentations and interactive programs within the aquarium
  • Create positive guest interactions and experiences daily
  • Keep a record of learning activities and hours
  • Complete a project and give an oral presentation with visual aids to fellow peers and staff
  • Follow all policies and procedures set forth by OdySea Aquarium
  • Complete any applicable additional tasks, worksheets, quizzes, tests, or projects as determined by the specific internship program


EMPLOYEE PROMISE:

All interns are expected to exemplify core fundamentals of the OdySea Aquarium Employee Promise, which states:

  • I am empowered to take ownership of any opportunity to exceed expectations.
  • I anticipate guest needs and pay attention to the details.
  • I treat all internal and external customers with respect.
  • I am on stage! (Smile)
  • I have an attitude of gratitude.
  • I get it right the first time.
  • I display actions that are moral and ethical.
  • I always provide alternative solutions.
  • I am committed to learning every aspect of our product and services.
  • I use the 10/5 rule, at 10 feet I acknowledge the guests' presence with a smile and at 5 feet I greet them with a courteous word.
  • I use name recognition at every opportunity.
  • I take personal responsibility for our surroundings.
  • I am accountable for my tools and resources.
  • I value the contribution of every team member.


Requirements

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

  • Current college student or recent graduate
  • Adherence to OdySea Aquarium grooming standards
  • Follow all Departmental Standard Operating Procedures
  • Satisfactory completion of a background check and drug screen
  • Ability to intern a minimum of 3-5 days per week during the designated semester
  • Ability to work various operating hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Willingness to speak in front of groups of people
  • Must be comfortable speaking on microphone and engaging with guests
  • Willingness to be flexible, learn and multitask
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, team oriented, responsible, enthusiastic and flexible
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Must be able to access animal exhibits, enclosures, and pools


REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

  • Brief application below
  • 1 page maximum cover letter
  • 1-2 page maximum resume
  • 3 letters of reference, at least 2 of which must be from a past teacher, aor supervisor


SEMESTER AND APPLICATION DATES

SPRING SEMESTER

  • Application deadline: December 1st
  • Semester runs January through April

SUMMER SEMESTER

  • Application deadline: April 1st
  • Semester runs May through July

FALL SEMESTER

  • Application deadline: August 15
  • Semester runs August through December



Apply