NYA Aquaculture Intern

The Wildlife Conservation Society is offering a NYA Aquaculture Internship at the New York Aquarium for Summer 2025. Interns will work 2-4 days per week, learning to cultivate and maintain phytoplankton cultures essential for aquaculture. The position requires physical tasks and working in various weather conditions. A stipend of $1000 to $2000 is provided based on the schedule. Applicants must be 18+, enrolled in college, and eligible to work in the U.S.
NYA Aquaculture Intern
Location: New York Aquarium
Department: Animal
Duration: Summer 2025 (late May-August)
Schedule: 2, 3, or 4 days per week for 15 weeks with at least one weekend day per week.
Stipend: $1000 (2 days per week), $1500 (3 days per week), or $2000 (4 days per week) to be paid as one lump sum upon the completion of the position, less applicable taxes.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by April 15, 2025. The position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Overview
This internship is designed to be an important entry point for someone looking for a career working in aquaculture and/or the fish hatchery field. Interns will receive a well-rounded training course on the cultivation, maintenance, and optimization of phytoplankton cultures to support marine life in aquaculture and Aquarium systems. This role will assist in understanding what a crucial part phytoplankton plays for the production of aquatic organisms in the aquatic field. Interns will be responsible for completing a project based on this designation at the aquarium.

Learning Outcomes:
• Interns will learn how to Cultivate and maintain phytoplankton cultures for use in aquaculture and public aquarium systems.
• Interns will assist in monitoring culture conditions, including light, temperature, nutrients, and aeration, to ensure optimal growth and productivity.
• Interns will assist in harvesting and distributing phytoplankton to designated tanks and culture systems as needed.
• Interns will learn how to conduct routine water quality testing and troubleshoot any issues related to phytoplankton culture health.
• Interns will learn how to keep accurate records of culture performance, growth rates, and environmental conditions.

Important Information about the Application:
To be fully considered for this role, applicants must upload both a resume and cover letter.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Current college or graduate student enrolled in a degree granting program. Having some focus on aquaculture is an advantage
• Interest in pursuing career in animal care
• Be able to lift 50lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
• Be able to work in all weather conditions (rain, snow, heat, cold, etc.)
• Have the ability to work well in a busy and fast paced environment
• Must be eligible to work in the United States