Sea Cliffs Intern- Summer

Position: Sea Cliffs Intern- Summer 2026
Job Description

Sea Cliffs Intern - Summer 2026

Location:

New York Aquarium

Department:
Animal

Duration:
Summer 2026;
Approximately June-August

Schedule:

3 days per week for 20 weeks, 4 days per week for 15 weeks, or 5 days per week for 12 weeks.

Stipend: $2,000 paid total stipend as one lump sum upon successful completion of the position, less applicable taxes.

Final date to receive applications:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by April 1, 2026. The position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Overview:

This internship is designed to be an important entrypoint for someone looking for a career working with animals. Interns will receive a well rounded training course in animal care and training while working alongside the animal care staff to assist with the husbandry of marine mammals (sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters) and penguins. Interns will also complete a final project.

Learning Outcomes:

* Interns will learn the daily husbandry and care routines for marine mammals and penguins

* Interns will learn about effective enrichment including how to schedule and administer enrichment to collection animals

* Interns will learn the basics of operant conditioning and applied behavior analysis

* Interns will learn the basics of guest interaction in a zoo or aquarium setting including how to convey educational information and effectively communicate conservation efforts.

* Interns will learn about the essential role that zoos and aquariums play in conservation.

* Interns will participate in classes on animal training and complete an animal training shaping plan.

* Interns may learn to perform an educational narration