Jim Hill Fellow for Water Quality

Tennessee Aquarium•Chattanooga, TN

18d•$16•Onsite

About The Position

The Jim Hill Fellowship program honors the legacy of one of the Tennessee Aquarium’s early leaders, who championed inclusivity in all areas of the Aquarium’s work. The Jim Hill Fellowship is a 9-week, work-based learning opportunity at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It seeks to provide valuable experience and support, with the goal of encouraging greater participation in careers involving the management of aquatic environments, animal life support systems, and water chemistry. This experience will help guide students in understanding the process required to provide a safe environment for the animals on exhibit while gaining valuable hands-on work experience. Selected Fellows will be paid a $16.00 hourly wage along with campus housing and parking. The Fellowship period is May 18th to July 17th, 2026, and fellows must be available for the full 9 weeks. Jim Hill Water Quality Lab Fellows will be exposed to various aquatic systems and their care within the Tennessee Aquarium with a specific focus on animal life support systems (LSS) water chemistry and microbiology. Fellows will actively participate in collecting samples from exhibit and backup areas and evaluating water quality and microbiology in a laboratory setting. Fellows will learn to interpret lab results and trends, and to use and maintain water quality laboratory equipment. This hands-on opportunity will introduce participants to the art of monitoring the water quality of a diverse collection of animals in saltwater and freshwater environments.

Requirements

Currently enrolled, undergraduate college student with a science major.
Able to commit to the full internship of 9 weeks (May 18th - July 17th).
Able to climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs., move about on wet surfaces, stand for prolonged periods.
Show a high interest in science and conservation.
Must be highly motivated and eager to learn new skills and solve problems.

Responsibilities

Learn the location of each exhibit and the proper way to sample from it.
Performs routine water quality analysis using probes, spectrophotometers, reagents, and other standard laboratory equipment.
Maintain appropriate records.
Clean and maintain lab equipment.
Performs work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium's mission and reflects its core values and service standards.
Interact with staff, volunteers, and the public in a professional and ethical manner.
Prepare and deliver a presentation about their work to Aquarium staff at the end of the Fellowship period.