Marine Science & Education Intern (In-Person)

Company Description

Seaside Sustainability is a nationally recognized 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to environmental conservation and education. Its mission is to protect and restore oceans by raising awareness of environmental challenges, promoting sustainability practices, and fostering advocacy through action. Collaborating with schools, communities, and organizations, Seaside Sustainability provides project-based learning, internships, and volunteer opportunities to empower individuals as future environmental leaders.

The organization is committed to advancing STEM education and sustainable practices to ensure the health of global ecosystems.

Location: Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Our Marine Science and Technology team is seeking 4-5 in-person interns who can complete a minimum of 15 hours per weekfrom May 01st, 2026 to November 15th, 2026in the Cape Ann area. Applicants who are available from May to November will be prioritized.
• Daily monitoring of Seabin and Skimmer devices in Gloucester, MA, emptying and replacing mesh bags Conduct daily monitoring of Seabin and Skimmer devices, including emptying and replacing mesh bags to ensure continuous marine debris removal.
• Assist in operating and maneuvering marine technology, including the Pixie Drone (and BeBot, pending program implementation), under supervision.
• Support eelgrass monitoring efforts, including data collection, mapping, and assessment of eelgrass health and water quality.
• Perform weekly mudflat acidification testing at designated locations and record field data accurately.
• Conduct microplastics sampling and analysis, including sieving sand and documenting findings.
• Assist with marine debris trawling operations in accordance with NOAA standards, including sorting, measuring, and recording collected materials.
• Participate in biweekly coastal cleanup events and corporate volunteer cleanups by providing guidance, support, and education to participants.
• Monitor and maintain sunscreen dispensers at designated beach locations.
• Conduct plastic pellet (nurdle) collection and report findings to relevant databases (e.g., Nurdle Patrol).
• Support public engagement by answering questions from community members about Seaside’s programs and technologies.
• Assist with data entry, analysis, and reporting, including compiling findings into databases and preparing summaries for internal use and external partners.
• Contribute to marketing efforts by preparing written summaries or reports following fieldwork and events.
• Maintain accurate records of hours worked and submit weekly reports as required.

Learning OutcomesBy the end of the internship, the intern will:
• Gain hands-on experience in marine fieldwork, environmental monitoring, and data collection techniques.
• Develop an understanding of marine ecosystems, including eelgrass habitats, coastal processes, and pollution impacts.
• Build proficiency in environmental data recording, analysis, and reporting.
• Strengthen communication skills through public engagement and educational outreach.
• Gain exposure to emerging marine technologies and sustainability practices.
• Develop teamwork, time management, and professional skills in a field-based research environment.

Program Summary:
Seabin and Skimmer Management - Daily

Sea bins are designed to tackle the growing problem of plastic pollution and other discarded debris in marine environments to restore ecosystems and habitats that occupy coastal areas. These devices act as trash bins in the water by filtering water through a mesh bag, leaving behind marine debris.

Mudflat Acidification Testing - Biweekly The primary objective of mudflat acidification testing is to establish a clear correlation between the increase in CO2 levels and the subsequent decline in pH levels within the mudflats. Three designated locations across Cape Ann will be visited to perform acidification testing. At each of these sites, you will conduct probing and data recording activities.

The collected data will be subsequently compiled and transmitted to Salem Sound Coast watch for inclusion in a comprehensive database, facilitating further analysis and assessment.

Microplastics in Sand - Weekly

Our MS&T staff visits our local beaches and conducts research studies on the presence and distribution rates of microplastics. In a small area, sand is removed and filtered through sieves, leaving behind larger items like rocks and microplastics. Participants can see firsthand just how much plastic is right below our feet through this

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