To Apply:
Please register an account here then click “Submit an Application” in the menu bar. If you already have an account, please log in and click “Submit an Application.” Priority deadline is June 1st.
Now accepting Fall 2025 applications
*Fall applications will be available in April. Spring and Winter applications will be available in August.
Summary:
Interns in this gallery assist staff with husbandry responsibilities of the New England Aquarium’s Northern Waters Gallery. The Northern Waters Gallery is home to the rare and deep biota of the Pacific Northwest and New England coasts. Interns for the Northern Waters Gallery will have the unique opportunity to have hands on experience handling, training, and enriching a collection of cold marine animals, including featured animals such as the Giant Pacific Octopus and multicolored American Lobsters.
Organizational Description:
The New England Aquarium is a catalyst for global change through public engagement and education, commitment to marine animal conservation, innovative scientific research, and effective advocacy for a vital and vibrant ocean.
Department Description:
The Cold Marine staff support the New England Aquarium’s mission to protect the blue planet by creating and maintaining exhibits that encourage the public to care about the ocean and to become involved in conservation.
Time commitment:
Fall:12-16 Weeks. At least Two/Three Full Days per Week (8 AM – 5 PM)
Winter: 125 hours minimum
Spring: 12-16 Weeks. At least Two/Three Full days per Week (8 AM – 5 PM)
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Provide daily care, maintenance, and assist with the appearance of the gallery
- Diet preparation and feeding, including vitamins and supplements
- Record and monitor water parameters
- Daily organizing and upkeep for behind-the-scenes spaces
- Maintain exhibit life support systems including protein skimmers and mechanical filtration processes
- Participate in operant conditioning and enrichment of various species
- Maintain animal welfare standards
- Record keeping in regulation to protocols set forth by NEAq
- Learn specialized care for deep sea fishes and invertebrates
- Perform enrichment activities for the Giant Pacific octopus
- Assist staff with projects in the gallery
- Attend professional development sessions with the Volunteer Programs and Internships office
- Potential to assist in other Galleries (Tropical, Temperate, Yawkey, Freshwater)
- Potential to observe and assist with veterinary procedures
Skills/Qualifications:
- The position requires physical labor. Applicant must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must be able to climb multiple flights of stairs
- Must be able to take in and carry out multiple instructions and execute them in a timely manner
- Must be able to work independently and as part of a team
- Must be comfortable working with animal food items, including raw seafood
- Work in confined spaces of varying temperatures, light, and sound levels