Aquaculture Intern- Fall/Winter 2026

Wildlife Conservation Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 1,200 - 1,500; Part time

Job summary

The Wildlife Conservation Society at the New York Aquarium invites applications for the NYA Aquaculture Intern - Fall/Winter 2026. This entry‑level internship provides training in phytoplankton culture and supporting marine life care within aquarium systems.

Interns will monitor culture conditions, assist in harvesting phytoplankton, and maintain records, with a project completed by the end of the term. Applicants should be prepared for physical tasks and weather exposure while pursuing a career

Qualifications

• This internship is open to current students pursuing aquaculture or related fields.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Learn to cultivate and monitor phytoplankton cultures for aquaculture and aquarium systems.
• Assist in monitoring culture conditions (light, temperature, nutrients, aeration).
• Assist in harvesting and distributing phytoplankton to tanks and culture systems.
• Conduct routine water quality testing and troubleshoot culture health issues.
• Keep accurate records of culture performance and environmental conditions.

Skills

Physically fit

Student status

Interest in animal care

Ability to work in all weather

Education

Currently enrolled in college or graduate program

Job description

NYA Aquaculture Intern - Fall/Winter 2026

Location: New York Aquarium

Department: Animal

Duration: Fall/Winter 2026 (October - March)

Schedule: 2 days per week for 20 weeks

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

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by September 24, 2026. The position may be filled before the deadline.

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.

Eligibility 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

Salary Range

Stipend: $1,325