The selected candidate is responsible for providing support to the marine mammal trainers. This internship's primary purpose is to learn about marine mammal care, conservation, research and training. Interns must have a flexible schedule and be able to work a total of 200 hours over the course of 10-12 weeks.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Prepare daily animal diets as instructed – Supports staff in the cleanliness and safety of all animal backup areas.
• Observe and assist in enrichment, husbandry and training sessions.
• Participate in pre-session preparations - Perform behavioral observations of the colony.
• Maintain accurate records and assist staff in day-to-day duties.
• Attend educational lectures from other departments.
• Design, implement and present findings and from a project focusing on topic or area of interest to the intern in relation to the marine mammal field.
• Complete assigned readings and exercises in a timely manner.

REQUIREMENTS

• Preference given to applicants who major in life science, psychology or related field.
• Must have a basic understanding of marine mammal natural history.
• Must have basic swimming skills and be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Must be comfortable in a demanding work environment (standing, kneeling, carrying, bending, climbing ladders, exposure to extreme temperatures, working around large animals).
• Must work well both individually and as a team member.
• Must be available to work weekends.
• Must be willing to work shifts starting as early as 6:30 am.
• Preference will be given to interns demonstrating intent to pursue a career in marine mammal training.

Internships at the National Aquarium provide hands-on and minds-on experiences that add value to any college education. Applying classroom knowledge, interns obtain valuable job experience and establish professional contacts.

College internship positions are available year-round in many departments throughout the Aquarium. The Aquarium makes every effort to match interns to work that complements their studies, interests, and skills. Students may apply for up to two internships per term; if more than two applications are submitted, only the first two will be considered.

The National Aquarium is committed to diversity and invites individuals who bring a diversity of culture, experience and ideas to apply.

Interested and engaged applicants should apply through our website. All questions and requests for reasonable accommodation should be directed to intern@aqua.org. A complete application includes the following:

• Answers to application questions, including biographical information, your availability, and a brief explanation of why you would like to participate and how it will assist you in your career.
• Copy of resume
• Contact information for 2 references

Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare.

More than 1.2 million people visit the Aquarium each year to experience our immersive exhibits, and we reach far more through our science-based education programs and hands-on field conservation work. The National Aquarium is one of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland.

Our Mission and Goals

The Aquarium’s mission—to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet—begins within the walls of its buildings, but it does not end there. The Aquarium protects, enhances and restores natural resources through education and engagement, habitat restoration, animal rescue and sustainable business practices, with its conservation work guided by three overarching goals—to combat climate change, save wildlife and habitats, and stop plastic pollution.