Marine Mammal Care & Aquatheater Internship – Winter/Spring

Wildlife Conservation Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 14,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Wildlife Conservation Society is offering a Behavioral Husbandry Aquatheater Internship at the New York Aquarium, Winter/Spring 2027. The program provides hands-off observation of care for California sea lions and harbor seals, with enrichment activities and coursework designed to prepare interns for a future in marine mammal care.

Flexible student/non-student schedules and a lump-sum stipend are included. Interns will complete reading, quizzes, and an independent project, and may participate in

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must meet the time commitments outlined above; schedule varies for students and non-students.
• Interest in pursuing a career in marine mammal care and training.
• Ability to memorize a script.
• Ability to lift 50lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Ability to learn and work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to operate well in a busy and fast paced environment.
• Must have basic math skills.
• Previous animal care experience is helpful but not required.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Must successfully pass a background screening if accepted.

Responsibilities

• Assist in care of California sea lions and harbor seals; participate in daily animal presentations when possible.
• Observe training in progress and assist with the section’s enrichment program.
• Complete reading assignments, coursework, and an independent project.
• Contribute toward daily objectives and maintain a safe, clean environment for animals.
• This internship is designed as a stepping stone toward a career as a marine mammal trainer/keeper.

Skills

Time commitment

Physical endurance

Marine care interest

Background screening

US work eligibility

Mathematics basics

Job description

Wildlife Conservation Society is offering a Behavioral Husbandry Aquatheater Internship at the New York Aquarium, Winter/Spring 2027. The program provides hands-off observation of care for California sea lions and harbor seals, with enrichment activities and coursework designed to prepare interns for a future in marine mammal care.

Flexible student/non-student schedules and a lump-sum stipend are included. Interns will complete reading, quizzes, and an independent project, and may participate in