Aquaculture Intern- Fall/Winter 2026

Overview

This internship is designed to be an important entry point for someone looking for a career working in aquaculture and/or the fish hatchery field. Interns will receive a well-rounded training course on the cultivation, maintenance, and optimization of phytoplankton cultures to support marine life in aquaculture and Aquarium systems. This role will assist in understanding what a crucial part phytoplankton plays for the production of aquatic organisms in the aquatic field. Interns will be responsible for completing a project based on this designation at the aquarium.

Learning Outcomes

• Interns will learn how to cultivate and maintain phytoplankton cultures for use in aquaculture and public aquarium systems.
• Interns will assist in monitoring culture conditions, including light, temperature, nutrients, and aeration, to ensure optimal growth and productivity.
• Interns will assist in harvesting and distributing phytoplankton to designated tanks and culture systems as needed.
• Interns will learn how to conduct routine water quality testing and troubleshoot any issues related to phytoplankton culture health.
• Interns will learn how to keep accurate records of culture performance, growth rates, and environmental conditions.

Qualification Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Current college or graduate student enrolled in a degree granting program. Having some focus on aquaculture is an advantage.
• Interest in pursuing career in animal care.
• Be able to lift 50lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Be able to work in all weather conditions (rain, snow, heat, cold, etc.).
• Have the ability to work well in a busy and fast paced environment.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Pay

Stipend: $1,325 total stipend to be paid as one lump sum upon successful completion of the position less applicable taxes.

Schedule

2 days per week for 20 weeks (October - March).