Aquarium Internship at the Maria Mitchell Association

Maria Mitchell Association•Nantucket, MA

About The Position

The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is offering four paid Aquarium internships for the 2027 summer season. Interns work as a team with the Aquarium Manager and are responsible for all facets of aquarium operations, which houses roughly 65–75 marine species each year. The immersive internship includes exhibit design, collection and husbandry, filtration-system maintenance and troubleshooting, educational programs and tours, volunteer management, and gift shop retail. Interns also select an elective project to work on during the summer and participate in cross-training and crossover experiences with the Natural Science Museum. The internship includes nights and weekends, and no two consecutive days off are guaranteed. The position is suited to students and recent graduates interested in marine biology, environmental education, or aquarium careers. The internship runs from May 31, 2027, to approximately September 3, 2027. The end date may be flexible, with a possibility of extending through October 31, 2027. Compensation is $16 per hour. Dormitory-style housing is available for $30 per week with a $200 security deposit. Housing is optional, but interns must provide proof of alternative housing before the internship begins if they do not live in MMA-provided housing. Residents must attend and participate in dorm cleaning days; dorm rooms are shared. Applications are due February 1, 2027, at 11 p.m. EST. A completed application consists of a resume, cover letter, contact information for three references, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and the internship application.

Requirements

Some marine science experience, which may include coursework, study abroad, an internship, volunteering, or lab work, and at least two years of college experience.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to become certified by the start of the internship.
Must be able to pass a safe driving test to qualify to drive company vehicles to outbound field trips.
Applicants who do not use MMA-provided housing must provide proof of alternative housing before the internship begins.

Nice To Haves

Interest and experience in marine biology and environmental education.
Interest in asking biological questions, making careful observations, following procedures, keeping accurate records, and critically evaluating results.

Responsibilities

Curate aquarium displays with animals collected on and around Nantucket Island using methods such as seining, hand netting, fishing, and snorkeling.
Prepare food daily for aquarium animals, including handling live and frozen fish, crabs, and shrimp.
Perform daily maintenance and general animal care.
Assist with medical and animal-acclimation procedures.
Provide engaging and educational tours to Aquarium visitors of all ages.
Present educational and outreach programs on and off site several times per week for public and private entities.
Assist MMA Environmental Educators with marine field programs for MMA Discovery Camps and private programs, including program design and materials preparation.
Maintain aquarium exhibits and support operations, including plumbing, troubleshooting and repairing filtration systems, water changes, water quality, and filter cleaning.
Mentor MMA Aquarium high school interns and volunteers.
Sell MMA memberships, merchandise, and admissions at the front desk.
Participate in MMA service projects for 1–2 hours per week.
Cross-train and take on crossover responsibilities with the Natural Science Museum.
Assist with observatory open nights at the front desk.
Choose and work on an elective project during the summer.
Remain curious and enthusiastic about the natural world.