The Jim Hill Fellowship program honors the legacy of one of the Tennessee Aquarium's early leaders, who championed inclusivity in all areas of the Aquarium's work.
- The Jim Hill Fellowship is a 9-week, work-based learning opportunity at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
- It seeks to provide valuable experience and support, with the goal of encouraging greater participation in careers involving the management of aquatic environments, animal life support systems, and water chemistry.
- This experience will help guide students in understanding the process required to provide a safe environment for the animals on exhibit while gaining valuable hands-on work experience.
- Selected Fellows will be paid a $15.00 hourly wage along with campus housing and parking.
- The Fellowship period is May 19th to July 18th, 2025, and fellows must be available for the full 9 weeks.
- Jim Hill Water Quality Lab Fellows will be exposed to various aquatic systems and their care within the Tennessee Aquarium with a specific focus on animal life support systems (LSS) water chemistry and microbiology.
- Fellows will actively participate in collecting samples from exhibit and backup areas and evaluating water quality and microbiology in a laboratory setting. Fellows will learn to interpret lab results and trends, and to use and maintain water quality laboratory equipment.
- This hands-on opportunity will introduce participants to the art of monitoring the water quality of a diverse collection of animals in saltwater and freshwater environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Learn the location of each exhibit and the proper way to sample from it.
- Performs routine water quality analysis using probes, spectrophotometers, reagents, and other standard laboratory equipment.
- Maintain appropriate records.
- Clean and maintain lab equipment.
- Performs work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium's mission and reflects its core values and service standards.
- Interact with staff, volunteers, and the public in a professional and ethical manner.
- Prepare and deliver a presentation about their work to Aquarium staff at the end of the Fellowship period.
Key Requirements:
- Currently enrolled, undergraduate college student with a science major.
- Able to commit to the full internship of 9 weeks (May 19-July 18).
- Able to climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs., move about on wet surfaces, stand for prolonged periods.
- Show a high interest in science and conservation.
- Responsible for own transportation from campus housing to the work location.
- Must be highly motivated and eager to learn new skills and solve problems.
- Seasonal, hourly; 36-40 hours/week from May 19th through July 18th (must be available for entire 9 weeks); weekend and holiday work may be required; Fellowship includes University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus housing & campus parking; paid parking near the Aquarium during work hours.
- Please be prepared to upload a resume and cover letter during the application process.
- All submissions must be received by March 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM (EST)
- The Tennessee Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting an inclusive environment that values and supports diversity and equity among staff, volunteers, and all of its audiences.
- For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below.
- Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.
