Youth Ocean Advocates

Job Description

Internship: Youth Ocean Advocates

Location: New York Aquarium

Department: Education

Duration: October 2026 - June 2027

Schedule: Thursday afternoons 5pm- 7pm in person at the New York Aquarium, plus occasional weekends for events and field trips during the fall/winter. Weekend events are more frequent in the Spring (March-May); approximately 100 hours total

Number of Positions Available: 15

Final date to receive applications: 8/28/2026

Stipend: $400 total stipend to be paid as one lump sum upon completion of the position, less applicable taxes

Youth Ocean Advocates are students interested in advocating for marine wildlife and habitats. Students in this program will learn the ins and outs of advocating for conservation actions in local communities. Youth Ocean Advocates work within the NYC community to support various wildlife conservation issues, learn how environmental policies impact communities and the health of the environment, and explore ways you can influence change as a young leader.

Students will learn best practices in large-scale event planning including assisting, planning, and coordinating a Youth Summit and World Oceans Day activities.

• Learn about the marine environment, conservation and advocacy techniques
• Hone public speaking skills while teaching the public about ocean conservation and actions they can take to protect our environment by educating Aquarium visitors and community members at local events
• Learn about environmental justice issues and their impact on communities, wildlife, and how to encourage action
• Plan and coordinate conservation projects like beach cleanups and develop activities for educational tabling at community events such as “It’s my Estuary Day” and “World Oceans Day”
• Assist with the development, planning, and execution of the Youth Conservation Summit, to be held Spring 2026
• Participate in advocacy opportunities with WCS and partner organizations including meetings and hearings with elected officials.

• Must be a high school student in good standing
• Must be a NYC resident
• You are interested in supporting marine conservation programs and strengthening your skills as a youth leader
• You are interested in understanding how environmental policy works and how it impacts communities
• Must be eligible to work in the United States
• If accepted, must successfully pass a background screening if 18+ years of age (provided by WCS)

$400 Stipend