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Penguin Colony Intern 


Now accepting Fall 2025 applications


Summary: 

The New England Aquarium’s Penguin Colony is an open air, 150,000 gallon saltwater exhibit. It has 6 manmade islands with water temperatures ranging from 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. It is home to multiple temperate climate penguin species.

Penguin Colony Interns assist the penguin staff with the daily husbandry and programming requirements for the exhibit.


Organizational Description:

The New England Aquarium is a catalyst for global change through public engagement and education, commitment to marine animal conservation, innovative scientific research, and effective advocacy for a vital and vibrant ocean.


Time commitment: 

12-16 weeks. At least 3 Full Days Per Week (8:00 am - 5:00 pm), one weekend day required, preference for Sunday-Tuesday or Thursday-Saturday.


Responsibilities include but are not limited to:  

  • Prepare food twice a day for the penguins
  • Help maintain and organize food preparation area
  • Assist with the cleaning of the penguin exhibit and support area;  This involves washing/ scrubbing habitats and disinfecting materials
  • Assist the staff with feeding the penguins by recording daily intakes for individual birds and document observations of behaviors
  • Will be responsible for formal presentations given to the Aquarium’s visitors


Qualifications: 

  • Biology, Marine Science or Animal Science major preferred but not required; Previous experience with animals desired
  • This position requires extreme physical labor including crawling, lifting, bending, reaching, and scrubbing while rock-climbing; 90 % of this work is done wearing a coldwater neoprene SCUBA diving suit
  • This position involves heavy cleaning duties
  • It requires standing in 50-60 degree Fahrenheit water for at least 5-6 hours
  • Applicant must be able to lift 50 pounds


**** Because of the physical demands, this position may be difficult for people with active or former knee and back injuries.


Required Gear:

  • Wool socks
  • Long sleeve rash guards or lycra skins
  • Bathing suits


Special Note: In general, research proposals or semester projects will not be accepted.



To Apply: 

Please register an account here then click “Submit an Application” in the menu bar. If you already have an account, please log in and click "Submit an Application."

 

 

Questions?

Visit: Frequently Asked Questions

E-mail: intern@neaq.org



Applications should be submitted by*:

For details about priority deadlines, please click here 

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New England Aquarium

1 Central Wharf , Boston, MA 02110 
 
HandsOn Connect

©2017 New England Aquarium,  an affiliate of the HandsOn Connect, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 | 617 - 973 - 5200

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