Natural Science Museum Internship at Maria Mitchell Association

Maria Mitchell Association•Nantucket, MA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is offering two paid internship positions at its Natural Science Museum for summer 2027. The museum exhibits animals native to Nantucket and some non-native species, teaches visitors about specimen collection and preservation, and offers hands-on science and nature activities for children. The internship provides experience across museum operations, including animal husbandry and collection, exhibit and signage design, educational programming, volunteer management, collections preservation, tours, and gift shop operations. Interns work as a team alongside the Natural Science Museum Manager and are responsible for all facets of museum operations. They may have opportunities to learn specimen preservation and assist with fieldwork at the MMA facility. Interns also cross-train and perform crossover work with the MMA Aquarium. The role includes nights and weekends, and two consecutive days off are not guaranteed. The internship is paid at $16 per hour and runs from May 31, 2027, to approximately September 3, 2027, with a possible flexible extension until December 13, 2027. Dormitory-style shared housing is available for $30 per week with a $200 security deposit. Interns living in the dorm must participate in dorm cleaning days. Housing is optional, but interns must provide proof of alternative housing before the internship begins if they do not use MMA housing.

Requirements

Working toward a degree in biology, geology, environmental science, or a related field, with at least two years of college experience; related experience may include coursework, study abroad, internships, volunteering, or lab work.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification by the start of the internship.
Ability to pass a safe driving test to qualify to drive company vehicles for field trips and collecting trips.

Nice To Haves

Ornithology and botany focus or experience; preference will be given to candidates with this background.
Interest in biology, ecology, and/or environmental education.

Responsibilities

Curate aquarium and terrarium displays using animals collected on and around Nantucket Island, including through seining, hand netting, fishing, and snake boarding.
Prepare food daily for animals, including handling live and frozen fish, crabs, shrimp, insects, and rodents.
Provide daily maintenance and general care for animals.
Assist with medical procedures and animal acclimation.
Lead engaging, educational tours for Natural Science Museum visitors of all ages.
Present educational and outreach programs on and off site several times per week, including for private and local entities.
Assist MMA Environmental Educators with natural science field programs for MMA Discovery Camps and support 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.
Assist the Field Ornithologist and Visiting Scientist with research and program preparation and delivery.
Possibly prepare and preserve specimens, including jarring and round skin preparation.
Mentor MMA Natural Science high school trainee interns and volunteers.
Assist the Museum Manager with Barn Owl Surveys and attend and assist with Barn Owl events.
Participate in MMA service projects for 1–2 hours per week.
Assist with observatory open nights at the front desk.
Cross-train and perform crossover responsibilities with the MMA Aquarium.
Sell MMA memberships, merchandise, and admissions when working at the front desk.
Maintain curiosity and enthusiasm about the natural world.