Fall 2026 Internship - Animal Care: Corals

Shedd Aquarium • Chicago, IL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Shedd Internship Program aims to provide meaningful career exploration for those seeking professions in non-profits, animal care, conservation, research, and beyond. This career learning opportunity is designed to introduce experiences necessary for those looking to pursue a future career in aquaria, fisheries, hatcheries, and the general animal husbandry industry. The Aquarium Team is responsible for all aspects of animal husbandry and habitat maintenance for a wide variety of fish, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Interns will assist with animal care, life support, water quality monitoring, and cleaning. Interns may also complete a research or observational project to further their understanding and career goals. This position will work directly with the Tropical Marine Invertebrate team and will focus primarily on coral husbandry and propagation.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old at time of application.
• Have a high school diploma or GED at time of application.
• Interested in a career in animal husbandry or conservation pertaining to reef ecosystems.
• Comfortable working closely with a variety of aquatic animals.
• Have good time management skills and be able to work independently.
• Attentive with good observational skills.
• Able to take advice and feedback in a professional manner.
• Able to communicate effectively with a team (written and verbal).

Nice To Haves

• Coursework in biological sciences or some animal care experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values
• Complete assigned animal care tasks including diet preparation, feeding, and recording health observations.
• Conduct in-depth observations of animal behavior and maintain detailed husbandry records.
• Assist in all aspects of habitat maintenance including cleaning walls/windows and substrate, performing water changes, understanding large and small aquarium life support systems, and monitoring water quality.
• Assist with daily monitoring and correction of water quality.
• Other projects as assigned

Benefits

• We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, Veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED