Overview
The Long Island Aquarium isn't a simulation of marine science — it's the real thing. High schoolers develop as environmental communicators, giving public lectures at live habitats. College students step into working departments alongside professional aquarists, educators, and exhibit designers. For a student who wants to know what a career in marine science or environmental education actually feels like, there is very little that compares.
Both programs are unpaid, require a minimum of 120 hours, and place students in working roles alongside professional staff.
High School Internship
Open to students aged 16–18, this program is run through the Education Department. Interns are paired with a staff mentor and spend their time in a public-facing role: staffing interactive touch tanks, teaching visitors about horseshoe crabs and sea stars, and delivering habitat lectures during operating hours. The goal is to develop students as environmental communicators — people who can translate complex marine science for a general audience. Mentors provide written guidance, personal career perspective, and a real window into what working in marine science looks like day to day. The Long Island Aquarium is recognized by the Long Island Works Coalition as an outstanding career mentoring partner for Long Island youth.
To apply, submit a resume, letter of interest, one teacher recommendation, and a Certificate of Liability from your school district — required and non-negotiable.
Deadlines:
- Fall — August 15
- Spring — December 15
- Summer — May 15
Collegiate Internship
Open to students 18 and older enrolled in a two- or four-year college with a relevant major — biology, marine science, psychology, education, or similar. Students apply to one or more of seven departmental tracks:
- Aquarist Assistant — husbandry, water quality analysis, diet prep, and seasonal field collection; interns should plan to bring a bathing suit, water shoes, and towel — this is hands-in-the-water work
- Aquaculture Assistant — live food production, ornamental fish and jelly culturing; research projects available for students committing four or more days per week (junior standing and prior husbandry experience required)
- Mammal Department — care for sea lions, seals, otters, bats, and monkeys; behavioral training
- Bird & Reptile — daily care for African Black-Footed Penguins and reptiles; heavy emphasis on USDA/NMFS regulatory recordkeeping
- Entomology — husbandry of butterflies, tarantulas, and beetles; field collection and data recording
- Education Assistant — public programming and curriculum support; strong public speaking skills required
- Exhibit Design — storyboarding, sculpting rock formations, and constructing scenic elements
The Mammal Department summer internship carries a 300-hour minimum rather than the standard 120.
To apply, submit an application form, cover letter, resume, and one professor recommendation. Visit longislandaquarium.com for full instructions and contact emails.
Deadlines:
- Fall — July 15
- Winter — November 15
- Spring — December 15
- Summer — March 15