About the role#
This internship provides training in aquatic animal husbandry at the New York Aquarium. You will gain experience in exhibit maintenance, life support systems, diet preparation, and feeding protocols. The role is designed for students interested in a career working with animals and includes observing medical procedures, animal transports, and the arrival of new species.
What you'll do#
- Learn to manage life support systems, water quality parameters, and quarantine procedures.
- Spend the first half of the term working with invertebrates like jellyfish and cephalopods.
- Transition to a focus on teleosts and corals during the second half of the internship.
- Gain insight into the role of zoos and aquariums in conservation efforts.
- Complete an independent project on a topic of your choice in collaboration with the internship coordinator.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment as a current college or graduate student in a degree-granting program.
- You must be at least 18 years old and eligible to work in the United States.
- An interest in pursuing a career in animal care.
- Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and perform demanding tasks.
- Comfort working in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and cold.
- Ability to work effectively in a busy environment.
- Submission of both a resume and a cover letter.
Location & details#
- Location: New York Aquarium, Brooklyn, New York.
- Term: Spring 2027 (February to May).
- Schedule: 2, 3, or 4 days per week for 15 weeks, including at least one weekend day.
- Compensation: A total stipend of $1,000 to $2,000, paid as a lump sum upon completion of the position.
About Wildlife Conservation Society
The Wildlife Conservation Society works to protect wildlife and natural habitats across more than 50 countries. Founded in 1895, the organization maintains a presence in New York City and various international locations. It manages zoos and an aquarium while conducting scientific research to inform conservation policy. The group employs between 1,001 and 5,000 people to support its global operations.
How to get in at Wildlife Conservation Society
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