Seek2Sea Animal Training Apprenticeship

The Seek2Sea Animal Training Apprenticeship offers a paid 22-week work-based learning experience to train early-career individuals in the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to enter the marine science field in animal care. The goal of Seek2Sea is to reduce barriers to entry-level animal care employment opportunities in marine science for communities of Greater Boston (including Boston, Revere, Somerville, Cambridge, Quincy, Malden, and Chelsea) by establishing a career pathway that combines hands-on training, professional development, and marine science learning opportunities. Apprentices will work closely with experienced animal care professionals to learn the skills needed to care for the animals in the New England Aquarium's care. They will learn husbandry, training, and enrichment techniques used to enhance the care and well-being of our sea lions and seals, and general exhibit maintenance. This position is intended for applicants with pre-entry level skills and experience in an animal care setting – those with no prior animal care experience are encouraged to apply. This is a full-time, temporary, on-site position. The position is scheduled to run from April 2026 through August 2026, with some flexibility on the start date. Apprentices will work 5, 8 hour days each week including a weekend day. Hours will be 8a – 5p EST for the first 11 weeks of the apprenticeship, and 7a – 4p for the final 11 weeks of the apprenticeship. Apprentices will be trained in the following duties and responsibilities: Developing knowledge in the biology, history, and ecology of natural habitats for assigned aquatic speciesProviding daily care for animals and facility, including food preparation, feeding, medication distribution, cleaning, and enclosure maintenanceDeveloping knowledge in basic behavior, training, and enrichment concepts to assist trainers during training sessions and presentationsObserving and documenting the behaviors for assigned speciesRecognizing typical and abnormal behaviors and characteristics of assigned speciesEngaging visitors, guests, and the public in presentations, behind the scenes tours, and Q&A sessionsMaintaining written and electronic records and submitting entries via NEAQ's specimen database system TRACKS© - this may include both narrative notes and numerical data.Upholding a high standard of animal welfare, including identifying signs of animal distress and following NEAq protocolsEngaging in ongoing learning and professional development sessions, including e-learning modules, bi-weekly apprentice learning sessions, projects, and off-site learning experiences Apprentices Will Receive Pay rate: $17.60 per hourPaid learning opportunities, including hands-on training, e-learning modules, and additional coursesOn-site meal allowanceMonthly LinkPass (for subway and bus use; other commuting expenses will not be subsidized)Opportunities for institutional and industry networkingJob placement support upon completion of the apprentice program Qualifications Minimum Requirements High School Diploma or equivalent experienceMust reside in Greater Boston (including Revere, Somerville, Cambridge, Quincy, Malden, and Chelsea)A strong interest in a career in Marine Science, Animal Training, or Animal Care Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Motivated with a strong commitment to learningWilling to accept instruction and feedbackInterest in developing strong critical thinking and problem-solving skillsAbility to maintain collaborative working relationships with colleaguesEffective written and verbal communication skillsAble to work independently as well as collaborativelyAble to lift 50 pounds, climb multiple flights of stairs, and use small laddersAble to work in confined spaces of varying temperature, light, and sound levelsWilling to actively participate in daily animal care duties, including food preparation, handling raw fish, exhibit cleaning, and maintenance For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/ The New England Aquarium is committed to an inclusive workplace culture and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, as defined by the EEOC. Here, we foster a culture of respect and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet. We believe that an inclusive workforce provides diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our workplace culture.