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:
Spring, Summer, Fall: 12-16 Weeks. At least Two Full Days per Week (8 AM – 5 PM)
Winter: 125 hours minimum
Summary:
Interns in this gallery assist staff with daily husbandry responsibilities of the New England Aquarium’s Tropical Gallery. The gallery features animals native to tropical climates in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, such as live corals, tropical fishes, and a variety of reef dwelling invertebrates.
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
- Provide daily care, maintenance, and assist with the appearance of the gallery
- Maintain windows, backgrounds, and habitats of exhibits and holding systems
- 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, UV sterilizers, and mechanical filtration processes.
- Participate in operant conditioning and enrichment of various species
- Maintain animal welfare standards
- Assist staff with projects in the gallery
- Potential to assist in other Galleries (Temperate, Yawkey, Freshwater, Northern Waters)
- Record keeping in regulation to protocols set forth by NEAq
- Potential to observe and assist with veterinary procedures
- Attend professional development sessions with the Volunteer Programs and Internships office
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
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 Tropical 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.