Natural Resources Job Board

Located along the pristine harbor in the heart of historic Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium has been inspiring visitors for over twenty years. From our over 5,000 animals to our award-winning education team, from the Sea Turtle Care Center™ to our conservation programs protecting local species, visitors are struck with awe and inspiration as they journey through all our exhibits, representing the mountains to the sea of South Carolina.

We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums with a mission to inspire conservation of the natural world by exhibiting and caring for animals, by excelling in education and research and by providing an exceptional visitor experience.

Sea Turtle Care Center Interns have the opportunity to learn about and participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native sea turtle species. Interns will assist staff in all aspects of the daily care of sick and injured sea turtles, occasional medical procedures, and educational programs. The overall goal of our internship program is to help interns learn the ins and outs of sea turtle rehabilitation to help prepare for a career in the field. 

The Sea Turtle Care Center is the only sea turtle hospital in the state of South Carolina. Winter is our slower season in regard to local strandings. If tank space allows, we assist northern sea turtle rehabilitation facilities by taking several cold stun patients.  This allows for the opportunity to learn how to admit a higher number of turtles at one time and to learn valuable hands-on knowledge of a common cause of stranding every winter throughout the country. While local releases are not possible during this time of year due to colder waters, it is possible that you will get the chance to participate in a release in Florida.

Often requires walking, standing, and bending. Regularly requires stooping, crouching, climbing ladders/steps, carrying up to 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, pushing/pulling, working with tools and working in tight spaces. 

At this time, the South Carolina Aquarium does not provide compensation or housing. We know how difficult it is to commit to an unpaid internship, but we try our best to incorporate as many learning opportunities as possible and to work with you. Our desired schedule is working four days with three consecutive days off. 

We offer professional development workshops in order to help you become a more competitive job candidate.  

A reciprocity pass to local attractions and aquarium tickets are provided, as is a membership to the Aquarium.