1

Sea Turtle Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... sea turtle and loggerhead turtles. Interns will be instrumental in daily operations including husbandry and cleaning, diet preparation, public speaking and guest education. This internship requires ...

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... sea turtle and loggerhead turtles. Interns will be instrumental in daily operations including husbandry and cleaning, diet preparation, public speaking and guest education. This internship requires ...

Aquarist Intern

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... sea turtle and loggerhead turtles. Interns will be instrumental in daily operations including husbandry and cleaning, diet preparation, public speaking and guest education. This internship requires ...

Sea Turtle information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sea turtle biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sea Turtle Biologist, you need a solid background in marine biology, ecology, and conservation, often supported by a relevant degree and field research experience. Proficiency with data collection tools, GPS mapping, and statistical analysis software is commonly required. Strong observation skills, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial for successful fieldwork and collaboration with conservation teams. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective conservation strategies, and the ability to advocate for sea turtle protection.

What is a sea turtle?

A Sea Turtle job typically involves working with sea turtle conservation, research, or rehabilitation. These roles may include monitoring turtle populations, protecting nesting sites, rehabilitating injured turtles, and educating the public about conservation efforts. Jobs can be found in organizations such as marine conservation groups, research institutions, aquariums, and government agencies. Depending on the position, responsibilities may vary from fieldwork on beaches to lab research or public outreach. Many roles require a background in marine biology, ecology, or environmental science.

What is the difference between Sea Turtle vs Marine Biologist?

AspectSea TurtleMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, conservation trainingBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology or related field
Work EnvironmentWildlife reserves, beaches, conservation sitesResearch labs, field sites, universities
Industry UsageWildlife conservation, environmental agenciesResearch, academia, environmental organizations

While a Sea Turtle is an animal species, a Marine Biologist is a professional who studies marine life, including sea turtles. Marine Biologists often work to protect species like sea turtles through research and conservation efforts. Understanding the differences helps clarify career paths and roles within marine conservation.

What are some common challenges faced by marine biologists when monitoring sea turtles in the wild?

Marine biologists monitoring sea turtles often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficulty in tracking migratory patterns across vast ocean areas, and ensuring minimal disturbance to natural habitats. Fieldwork can involve long hours and irregular schedules, especially during nesting seasons when monitoring is most critical. Additionally, researchers must collaborate closely with local communities and conservation organizations to protect nesting sites and gather accurate data.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sea Turtle jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Sea Turtle jobs in Arizona are:
Infographic showing various Sea Turtle job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

As part of OdySea Aquarium's Animal Care: Aquarist Internship program, interns will rotate throughout the aquarium's four galleries and quarantine facility during their internship. 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 marine fishes, invertebrates, and a select number of freshwater and marine reptiles, including green sea turtle and loggerhead turtles. Interns will be instrumental in daily operations including husbandry and cleaning, diet preparation, public speaking and guest education. This internship requires 40 hours (four 10-hour days) per week for a full semester.


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: July 1st
  • Semester runs August through December