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.
Time commitment:
Fall: 12-16 Weeks. At least Two Full Days per Week (8 AM – 5 PM)
Winter: 125 hours minimum
Spring: 12-16 Weeks. At least Two Full Days per Week (8 AM – 5 PM)
Summary:
Interns assist staff with daily husbandry responsibilities of the New England Aquarium’s Temperate Gallery, home to the beautiful and ornate sea dragons, the peculiar, air-breathing ancient fishes, and the hulking goliath grouper. As the most diverse array of exhibits in the Aquarium, including a range of water temperatures and habitats, working in the Temperate Gallery provides the opportunity to learn a wide variety of duties related to animal care.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Providing daily care, maintenance, and assisting with the appearance of the gallery
- Diet preparation and feeding
- Participating in operant conditioning and enrichment of various species
- Maintaining animal welfare standards
- Recording and monitoring water quality parameters
- Maintaining exhibit life support systems including protein skimmers, UV sterilizers, and mechanical filtration processes.
- Daily organization and upkeep for associated behind-the-scenes spaces
- Assisting staff with other projects in the gallery
- Potential to observe and assist with veterinary procedures
- Potential to assist in other Galleries (Tropical, Yawkey, Freshwater, Northern Waters)
- Attending professional development sessions with the Volunteer Programs and Internships office
Skills/Qualifications:
- This 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
- Ability to work in confined spaces of varying temperatures, light, and sound levels
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 Temperate Gallery 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.