Research and Education Internship 2026
Location: Hyannis, Massachusetts, USA
Organization: Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
Contract Type: Seasonal, paid position (minimum 10 consecutive weeks between May-October 2026)
Main Description:
Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises is hiring Research and Education Interns for the 2026 season. This opportunity is designed for college students and recent graduates but is open to all who are passionate about whales and the marine environment. This is a seasonal, paid, joint naturalist/galley deckhand position. Applicants do not need to be majors in biology or marine sciences; rather, we are looking for individuals who have a passion for serving as stewards of ocean conservation.
Education and Research Intern responsibilities include:
- Circulating to provide passenger education using artifacts and teaching tools, answering questions, and offering suggestions for adopting a more sustainable lifestyle
- Narrating brief harbor tour (provided) over public address system
- Recording sightings data on marine mammals; entering data electronically with appropriate edits
- Assisting with social media content management and creation
- Assisting with photo-identification of individual whales
- Delivering excellent and attentive customer service
- Working with supervisors to complete an independent study project, such as analyzing data, social media content creation, or survey management
- Stocking, cleaning, and maintaining galley; serving passengers
- Assisting with cleaning, maintaining, and servicing the vessel as an active member of the crew
- Ensuring safety and well-being of passengers aboard whale watch vessel
In a typical week, two days will be spent working closely with the lead naturalist to educate passengers using biofacts, maps, and hands-on activities. On these days, the intern is also responsible for collecting sightings data under the supervision of the lead naturalist, documenting the number of animals observed and assisting in identifying individual animals by the unique pigmentation of their fluke markings. On galley deckhand days, the intern will work primarily in the vessel's snack bar under the direction of the galley supervisor.
Requirements:
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills; an enjoyment of working with people
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate a willingness to learn and ask clarifying questions, and respond positively to constructive feedback
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and be enrolled in our random drug testing program during your internship
- Capable of working a mix of week and weekend days
- Able to withstand a wide variety of weather conditions including extreme cold and hot temperatures, rain, and challenging sea conditions
- Must be a team player with a can-do mindset who is willing to jump in and support any needs when called upon
- Must be able to commit a minimum of 10 consecutive weeks within the months of May-October (dates flexible)
- Comfortable with public speaking, teaching in small groups, and working with children and adults in diverse populations
Benefits/Conditions:
- Pay: $16 per hour
- College credit (if applicable)
- Employee discount
- Cafeteria (galley)
- Flexible schedule
- Gratuities
- Work schedule is 3-4 days per week; trips run 7 days a week
- Housing NOT provided
How to Apply:
- Complete online job application at https://whales.net/jobs/
- Include uploaded cover letter, CV, and unofficial transcript
- Submit two letters of recommendation, either uploaded with your application or emailed to laura@whales.net
- Priority deadline: February 6, 2026; interviews to begin by mid-February
Contact: Laura Lilly, Director of Marine Conservation and Education, Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
