Sea Otter Research Intern (July - December 2026)

Monterey Bay Aquarium•Monterey, CA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

For more than 30 years, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has been a key contributor to sea otter recovery in California. Aquarium researchers and policy experts have advanced scientific knowledge, promoted improved management, and raised public awareness of the contributions sea otters make to healthy coastal ecosystems. The Sea Otter Program operates within the Conservation & Science division and strives to understand the health of the wild otter population and to restore southern sea otters along the central California coast. The Sea Otter Program is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to assist staff with field observations and data collection of wild and previously rehabilitated sea otters along the Monterey Peninsula and other parts of coastal, central California.

Requirements

At least 18 years of age
Current student or recent graduate (1 year post-graduation) at an accredited college, university, tech, or trade school
Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to the position applying for
Must provide a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation
Must be in good academic standing
Six-month commitment of 24 hours each week
Must have or obtain a valid California driver’s license within one month of starting internship
Must have a personal vehicle to use while in the field
Must have a cell phone
Willingness to perform project task assignments on a flexible schedule, including weekends
Able to lift up to 50 pounds and walk short distances over hilly terrain
Willingness to stand out in the elements for up to 8 hours at a time
Previous experience in a fieldwork setting or behavioral data collection, including coursework

Nice To Haves

Strong interest in animal behavior, natural history, and marine science/ecology
Experience in education and outreach for the general public
Attention to detail
Ability to multitask
Good organizational skills
Interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues
Ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Familiarity with ArcGIS and R is a plus

Responsibilities

Assist staff with field observations and data collection of wild and previously rehabilitated sea otters.
Collect data from shore and occasionally on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and making visual observations with spotting scopes.
Record daily re-sights, movement patterns, forage observations, and activity budget data on marked individual sea otters.
Assist with sea otter population monitoring and reporting.
Complete a project-based report at the end of the internship.