Fall Interactive Exhibits Aquarist Intern

About the role

The Fall Interactive Exhibits Aquarist Intern assists staff Aquarists with animal husbandry responsibilities of the New England Aquarium’s Shark and Ray Touch Tank, Edge of Sea Seahorses, live coral and mangrove exhibits, headstart turtle program (Fall through Spring), shark and ray rearing program, as well as holding areas supporting these exhibits.

Organizational Description

The New England Aquarium’s mission is to protect the blue planet through hands-on programs, live animal and interactive exhibits, public lectures and forums, and research and conservation projects. Exhibits showcase the diversity, importance, and beauty of aquatic life and habitats and highlight critical aquatic conservation issues. Programs emphasize species, habitats and issues critical to New England. The Aquarium is also a pioneer in marine animal rescue and a leading ocean conservation organization with research scientists working around the globe.

Department Description

The Interactive Exhibits 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. For example, our Shark and Ray Touch Tank establishes a positive connection between visitors and these misunderstood and increasingly imperiled animals.

Time commitment

Spring, Summer, Fall: 12-16 Weeks. At least Two Full Days Per Week (8:00 am-5:00 pm)
Winter: 125 hours minimum

Duties/Responsibilities

• Food preparation and feeding. Including handling raw seafood
• Cleaning filters and siphoning from tanks
• Organizing and cleaning behind the scenes
• Daily care and maintenance of the gallery's appearance
• Interacting and answering questions from visitors
• Observing animals and reporting unusual behaviors
• Feeding and maintenance in Shark and Ray Touch tank in waders
• Attending professional development sessions with the Volunteer Programs and Internships Office

Skills/Qualifications

• This position requires physical labor; physically able to lift 50 lbs, the ability to climb multiple flights of stairs, and utilize small ladders.
• Work in confined spaces of varying temperature, light, and sound levels.
• Capable of working independently and as a team
• Able to take and carry out multiple instructions in a timely manner
• Must be comfortable working with animal food items
• Must have strong interest in Biology, Marine Science, or Animals
• Previous experience with animals preferred