Dive Operations Internship - Summer 2026

Moody Gardens, Inc.•Galveston, TX

1d•$15 - $15•Onsite

About The Position

The Dive Operations Intern is a member of the Dive Operations (Dive Ops) team and reports to the Diving Safety Officer (DSO). Dive Ops works to implement dive safety procedures and guidelines per the Moody Gardens (MG) Dive Safety Manual (DSM) to ensure the safe conduct of dive operations at the facility and in the field. A Dive Operations Intern possesses a broad diving knowledge and skill base to include diving technology and aquarium and research diving techniques spanning the reach of the Moody Gardens Dive Program (MGDP). The Dive Operations Intern is qualified to perform on-property supervision of diving operations and administrative duties within the MGDP operation. The Dive Operations Intern will take direction from the Dive Safety Officer (DSO) to conduct and supervise on-property staff, volunteer, intern and VIP diving operations at Moody Gardens. Concurrently, support curatorial staff and LSEO projects as directed. Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Possess rescue diver or equivalent certification from an internationally recognized agency
Currently studying or recently graduated in a biological science or related field
Present a copy of dive training certifications, certificates, and diving log
Valid drivers license
Effectively communicate with, supervise, motivate, and supervise divers in safe diving techniques and use of equipment
Strong leadership and communication skills to ensure effective diver safety
Work as part of a team to achieve LSEO department goals
Extensive dive training and experience with knowledge of dive physics, physiology
Strong and effective safety culture, to include dive accident management
Knowledge of modern diving equipment, air compressors, safety devices and their operation, repair, and routine maintenance
Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry
Computer and record-keeping skills
Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor in all interactions
Organized and maintain work area in a professional manner
Available to work as required, including weekends, holidays and some evenings
Teamwork, flexibility, innovation, decisiveness, honesty, discretion
Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills are a critical requirement along with strong written and oral communication, as well as a proactive approach toward achieving the objectives of the dive program
Must be highly self-motivated and similarly able to take direction.
Assist the DSO on an as-needed basis with the ongoing and evolving needs of the dive program
Current DAN DFA Pro (or equivalent) training, or ability to obtain certification
Ability to pass AAUS-compliant dive physical and swim test
Possess the knowledge and technical and interpersonal skills, or motivation, to oversee certain aspects of the Moody Gardens dive program, with the safety risks and requirements accompanying these activities
Possess comfort providing supervision, direction, and corrective feedback to a range of program participants, including senior LSEO staff, external affiliates, partners, students, and volunteers.
Possess a working knowledge of diving theory, safe diving practices, and expertise appropriate to the scope of the MGDP
Possess knowledge, or motivation, of procedures, hazards, and safety precautions of aquarium diving
Effectively express ideas verbally and actively listen when conversing
Express ideas clearly and concisely when writing letters, reports, and other documents
Be proficient in the safe use of hand tools and shop equipment
Be able to work efficiently and communicate with staff, cross-functional teams, guests, and external partners from different backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Possess a willingness to bring new ideas, create inventive solutions and find efficiencies to transform dive program processes
Be able to work collaboratively towards mutual goals on a team engaged in a culture that promotes trust, respect, and accountability
Possess the flexibility to work on weekends and holidays routinely
Be able to read and interpret documents such as safety procedures, operating manuals, and maintenance instructions
Be able to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively while addressing groups or individuals.

Nice To Haves

Have professional experience with an American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) or equivalent diving program
Possess current leadership-level certification from an internationally recognized agency
Possess current DAN Diving First Aid for Professional Divers certification
Have experience in aquarium-related diving
Have experience in Full Face Mask Surface and Supplied dive operations
Have proficiency with Microsoft Office, Apple, and Google Applications software

Responsibilities

With the DSO and Dive Operations team, responsible for the smooth daily operation of the LSEO department dive operations, including but not limited to supervising and coordinating staff and volunteer divers, serving in various roles for dives, responding to emergency situations, and administrative duties
Maintain accurate dive program records for maintenance and repair, divers, equipment, and inventory
Keep DSO, Curators and staff informed of staff issues and behaviors in addition to animal health issues and behaviors observed in the course of dive operations
Maintain an effective approach to promoting a strong safety culture for dive operations
Coordinate the daily MGDP dive operations focusing on diver training, safety protocol development and refinement, and operational efficiency
Assist with MGDP diver training, dive record maintenance, and Dive Safety Manual compliance
Conduct MGDP diver emergency response drills
Collaborate with diving staff on daily preventative and corrective maintenance of all water-containing infrastructures
Participate as diver in exhibit diving operations and activities
Interface effectively with other departments to maintain the highest quality standards
Interact with guests, media, and public, etc., on behalf of the MGDP
Support diving operations related to Moody Gardens’ exhibit maintenance
Support public programming dive presentation development, and participate in dive presentations and special events as needed
Work respectfully with a diverse team of staff, students, and volunteer divers.
Follow MG diving and general safety regulations
Conduct other duties as assigned