Job Description: The New York Aquarium’s Animal Husbandry and Training Internship Program expands upon the Aquarium’s long-term efforts to educate future Animal Care professionals. Interns gain hands-on experience by providing valuable assistance to the Aquarium staff as we work to maintain our standards of excellence. Internship activities include participating in shows and training sessions, SCUBA diving and observing and recording animal behavior.

Interns divide their time between three divisions of the Animal Department.

1. Behavioral Husbandry – work closely with California sea lions and their trainers in animal shows and encounters. 2. Sea Cliffs Mammals/Penguins – assist keepers in the care of walruses, sea lions, harbor seals, northern fur seals, sea otters and penguins. 3. Sea Cliffs Fish – assist in the care of sharks, sea turtles, various fish species and invertebrates.

Essential Responsibilities:

* Prepare daily diets * Clean and maintain all animal and food preparation areas * SCUBA dive to maintain animal exhibits * Assist in training sessions and feedings * Narrate sea lion shows and public feedings * Schedule and administer daily enrichment * Complete all reading assignments, internship phase exams and a self-designed project

Experience: * Must be current junior or senior college students or recent graduates * Must be able to commit to 40 hours per week for minimum of 12 weeks, and available all holidays and weekends * Must have an interest in pursuing a future career in marine mammal care * Have 3 months of experience at an animal care facility (volunteer or employment) * Have previous public speaking experience * Be physically able to perform laborious tasks in extreme weather conditions * Be able to lift 50 lbs. * Have SCUBA certification * Have the ability to work well in a busy and fast paced environment * Must provide own housing and transportation

SCUBA certification must be listed under Special Skills on your application.

‘NYA AHT Internship Program’ must be specifically mentioned in cover letter.

Applications not meeting the above requirements will not be considered.