Marine Science & Education Intern (In-Person Internship)

Job Title: Marine Science & Education Intern (In-Person, Unpaid)
Location: Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States

Marine Science and Technology In-Person Intern
 

Job description

Our Marine Science and Technology team is seeking 4-5 in-person interns who can complete a minimum of 15 hours per week from May 14th, 2025 to October 31st, 2025 in the Cape Ann area.

Applicants who are available from May to October will be prioritized. Secondarily, we will prioritize those who can intern with us for a portion of the month during that time frame and are willing to complete their internship virtually either before or after their in-person internship.

Responsibilities:

• Daily monitoring of Seabin and Skimmer devices in Gloucester, MA, emptying and replacing mesh bags as necessary to ensure continued removal of marine debris from our waterways.
• Assist the Coordinator and Executive Director, Eric Magers, in maneuvering and controlling the PixieDrone.
• Conduct and assist in Eelgrass monitoring programs, and assess the health of eelgrass beds and the water quality in Cape Ann.
• Answer questions from onlookers about the PixieDrone as needed, such as what the device is, what it is used for, whether it is safe, etc.
• Conduct weekly acidification testing at three mudflat locations on the Cape Ann peninsula.
• Compile data from acidification tests for inclusion in a comprehensive database - possibly transmit the data to Salem Sound Coastwatch.
• Conduct “Microplastics in Sand” tests weekly and assist in running the activity for cleanup groups, teaching and demonstrating how much debris can be found buried in the sand.
• Assist at biweekly Coastal Cleanup events by providing guidance, knowledge, and supplies to participants as needed.
• Assist at biweekly Company Coastal Cleanup events by providing guidance, knowledge, and supplies to participants as needed.
• Monitor sunscreen dispensers biweekly on Good Harbor Beach and refill them as necessary.
• Conduct monthly marine debris trawls according to NOAA standards with Executive Director, Eric Magers, on Seaside Sustainability’s boat.
• Inspect, measure, and weigh debris collected from trawling activities to keep a record of the quantity and types of debris found in waterways.
• Monitor “Compostable in Marine Environment” plastic monthly to determine if/when deterioration starts.
• Conduct plastic pellet collection when time permits and report findings to nurdlepatrol.org to help create a database of microplastic findings in coastal Massachusetts.
• Conduct independent coastal cleanups when needed or as time permits.
• Assist in demonstrating Green & Asian Shore Crab mitigation during corporate events, collecting data regarding species, sex, and carapace length.
• Pending program commencement, assist Coordinator and Executive Director Eric Magers weekly in maneuvering and controlling the BeBot to sift through the sand along the Cape Ann peninsula.
• Pending program commencement, answer questions from onlookers about the BeBot as needed, such as what the device is, what it is used for, whether it is safe, etc.
• Creating write-ups after performing field work or attending an event for Marketing.
• Keep an accurate record of worked hours to be reported weekly to Seaside Sustainability using the Hours Tracker form.

Program Summaries

Seabin and Skimmer Management - Daily

Seabins 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.

PixieDrone - Events Only

The PixieDrone collects floating solid waste from bodies of water either by remote control or autonomously. The drone is equipped with a video camera to monitor waste conditions and avoid obstacles.

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 Coastwatch 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 activity.

Coastal Cleanups - Biweekly

The primary objective of Coastal Cleanups is to reduce the accumulation of debris, particularly in the oceans, which often results from the litter and waste carried into the water during rising tides, persisting for extended periods, and posing threats to marine life. Our focused efforts involve surveying these locations, collecting, documenting, and categorizing debris, and ensuring its proper disposal, preventing it from further contamination of our precious oceans. Planned Coastal Cleanups are scheduled for the local community to get involved. Seaside Sustainability provides guidance to participants to ensure cleanups are completed with safety in mind for all involved.

Corporate Clean Ups - Biweekly

Seaside will host cleanup events for corporate teams who are interested as a community service opportunity for their employees. Corporate teams will be encouraged to request a “private” cleanup event by making a donation to Seaside or they can join a public cleanup we have already scheduled. Not only do Gloucester area coasts get cleaned, but also local businesses will be able to participate in environmental conservation activities.

Sunscreen Dispensers - Biweekly

Using sunscreen is crucial for preventing skin cancer, especially when at the beach and exposed to the Sun. Regular application of sunscreen has shown to be the most effective way of preventing exposed skin from being damaged. Partnering with Raw Elements, a reef-safe sunscreen company, we decided to bring two dispensers to Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Seaside is currently working on adding two more sunscreen dispensers to Wingaersheek Beach.

Eelgrass - Monthly

Eelgrass keeps coastlines stable, provides food and shelter, filters water, and more. Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection conducts aerial imaging followed by in-person mapping by boat to determine where eelgrass is found and where it may be struggling. Seaside Sustainability is looking to assist in these efforts in 6-8 locations in the towns of Essex, Manchester, Gloucester, and Rockport, Massachusetts by creating maps of local eelgrass beds. This program is conducted by collecting data and images in addition to creating maps of findings monthly from June to September.

Marine Debris Trawls - Monthly

Microplastics in the water can be hard to see and remove but trawling is one way we can start the process of taking plastics out of our waterways. Manta nets are used by trailing them behind a boat to take samples, filtering marine debris out of the water. These plastics are then inspected, measured, and weighed for research purposes. Trawls are conducted on a monthly basis according to NOAA standards with Executive Director Eric Magers on Seaside Sustainability’s boat.

Compostable in Marine Environment - Monthly

This project is testing a new potentially biodegradable plastic technology. The plastic is created with oxygen inside, making it easier to break down over time as compared to standard plastic products. Some items made from this material have been tested by Seaside Sustainability to see how they can withstand being in the water.

Nurdle Patrol - As needed / as time permits

Nurdle Patrol is a citizen science project based out of Texas to collect data on nurdles, or plastic pellets typically used in the manufacturing of plastic items, found in bodies of water. Participation includes going to the beach, searching for and collecting pellets for 10 minutes, and recording the data (including location, amount of nurdles, time, and pictures) at nurdlepatrol.org. Seaside is actively looking for volunteers and interns to go out and go on these nurdle hunts along beaches and upload their findings to the Nurdle Patrol website so we can pioneer data for Massachusetts!

Green Crabs - Events Only

European Green and Asian Shore Crabs are two invasive species in New England that negatively impact local native species, and therefore New England’s seafood industry. To mitigate this issue, Seaside places crab traps in permitted areas to collect data and remove invasive crab species. The captured crabs can be used for compost, as bait, and eaten after data and pictures have been taken. Seaside currently has one crab trap that is used during corporate events for instructional and informational purposes.

Desired Skills

• Passionate and dedicated to making a difference in the environment
• Excellent communication skills
• Has a flexible schedule to work in the mornings, afternoons, or evenings
• Comfortable working both in teams and individually
• Good time management skills
• Willing to learn and work outside of their comfort zone
• Willing to work outdoors, in or around water and/or on a boat, and in inclement weather
• Ability to lift 50 pounds

“Sustainability, Education, Action”

What is Seaside: Seaside Sustainability is a nationally recognized, award-winning 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to community engagement, public education, and environmental conservation. Seaside aims to be a leader in environmental and STEM educational programs and recognition initiatives. We help by promoting public awareness about the importance of environmental health, providing resources to develop problem-solving skills, and chances to get engaged as part of a community to take action. We organize our works and initiatives around these areas: plastic mitigation, marine citizen science, sustainability education, and solar energy in the community.

Why Intern at Seaside: Seaside’s internship program is hands-down one of the best in the area! With its roots firmly seated in education and hands-on learning, there is no doubt that that is why we have more than 50 interns at any given point throughout the year. Our programs and initiatives encourage members of the community, young and old, to build and nurture a relationship with local land and seascapes. An internship at Seaside allows you to explore a myriad of internship opportunities, relevant to almost any future interest. Join Seaside Sustainability for any season, or during breaks in your school schedule. We are looking for part-time interns in high school, college, and beyond to work on a diverse and challenging array of projects and initiatives. We are accepting applications for unpaid internships and prefer to have our local interns work in person at the office in Gloucester. Seaside Sustainability provides interns with real and meaningful work!

Mission: Seaside Sustainability's mission is to preserve and protect the world's oceans, seas, wetlands, and estuaries by motivating citizens to evaluate the critical issues facing the water environment, educating the public on best practices for sustainability, and providing guidance for taking effective action. Among our most important areas of focus are the elimination of consumer plastics and the creation of educational programs for students of all ages. By partnering with diverse stakeholders, including educational institutions, environmental groups, and other organizations across the public and private sectors, Seaside Sustainability is committed to building an informed citizenry to address the sustainability of water-based ecosystems in communities around the world.

Vision Statement: Seaside’s programs and initiatives encourage members of the community, of all ages, to build and nurture a relationship with local land and seascapes. We believe that environmental challenges can be overcome by instilling ethical and social responsibility into our existence. And we address these challenges by illuminating the heavy costs of environmental degradation by providing resources to develop skills, solutions, and community involvement.

What Interns Do at Seaside Sustainability: Our interns are not limited to just one role; we encourage each intern to take advantage of the opportunity to explore a variety of roles and responsibilities. Our interns are never bored as they’re always given real and meaningful work that is essential to the day-to-day operation of the company. As an intern with Seaside Sustainability, you will be asked to perform a myriad of tasks, most of which can also be found at https://www.seasidesustainability.org/in-person-internships. 

Market Research Weekly Work: In order to fulfill our mission, we need to communicate with educators who are passionate about sustainability. To meet our weekly goals of outreach to these educators, all interns are required to spend no more than 2-hours a week collecting this critical and game changing information. When you are researching these educators, you are literally selecting the people who will be changing the lives of their students by taking part in our programs. This role is one of the most important parts of working here at Seaside. You will gain so many useful skills such as how to be a more effective researcher and how to remain organized all while playing a key role in expanding the size and scale of Seaside. As Interns join Seaside’s leadership, they take on increasing responsibilities and are not required to do weekly information collection.

Course Credit: Students may receive course credit for this internship. Staff will work with the intern’s school/advisor on achieving desired learning outcomes and completing all necessary paperwork.

Requirements: Seaside Sustainability requires interns to work at least 15 hours per week.  

President’s Volunteer Service Award: Seaside Sustainability is now certified to give out the “President’s Volunteer Service Award” to eligible interns. This award was created to, “recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too.” This is a great achievement to put on your resume! What are the requirements for this award?

1. Must be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident
2. All hours must be completed within a 12-month period to be counted towards the final total
3. All hours must be tracked in Seaside’s weekly shift report to be counted

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement: Seaside recognizes that environmental issues are human issues, and therefore everyone has a right to be a part of the solution. Seaside is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that welcomes all participants irrespective of their gender, race, sexuality, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or socioeconomic status. The demographics of our internship program directly reflects the composition of our national outreach while the composition of our board more reflects the local composition of our communities. With the understanding that Environmental Issues disproportionately affect low income communities, minority communities, and communities of color, we are actively seeking to ensure that our environmental work, our projects, and programs are crafted in a way that both reflects and aids in combating the plight of minorities, of people of color, of economically challenged, and other disadvantaged individuals.

General Skills Needed:

• Passionate and dedicated to making a difference in the environment
• Good communication skills
• Comfortable working in teams
• Good time management skills
• Willingness to learn and work outside of their comfort zone
• Basic knowledge of communication technology (G-Suite, Zoom, Email)
• Leadership skills

Management Roles

Advisors

Seaside Sustainability’s Community Advisory Team members work directly with our Executive Director, Eric Magers, and work alongside Board members, Intern Directors, Management Fellows, other Community Advisors and a large cadre of interns organized in teams to further advance the organization’s goals. Common Advisor duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Leading implementation of new management and organizational processes and procedures across the program. Delegating tasks to appropriate team members. Working closely with the Human Resources team to manage and oversee recruitment for future internship sessions. Collecting and analyzing feedback from interns throughout the program to gauge satisfaction and success. Skills Needed: Good communication with people of all walks of life, Leadership skills, Experience coordinating groups of people, A strong desire to facilitate a positive, hands-on internship experience.

Strategic Assistants

Seaside Sustainability’s rapid growth is requiring the organization to look for enthusiastic students who wish to take their passion for the environment to the next level. To promote this, Seaside will provide Strategic Assistant with a professionally guided internship that assists with intern management strategies and supports their aspirations for career development. SAs take the lead on more than 10 Seaside projects working with 3-4 departments simultaneously. Being a SA is truly a win-winsituation: the environment benefits, interns benefit, and SA gains invaluable experience. We are actively seeking to recruit college students, graduate students, and those with leadership experience to fulfill the role of a SA. Interns at Seaside Sustainability may be promoted to the position of a SA by exemplifying the characteristics of a model intern. Skills Needed: Project development, Task delegation, Superior organizational and communication skills

Make Sure To Follow Seaside on Social Media!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seasusinc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seasusinc/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/seasusinc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDqPZWdPIQG37aaSC7NShOg

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seaside-sustainability-inc/

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4lfTZpbv0ELrkU2po8SRfo

And remember to check out our partner organization National STEM Honor Society www.nstem.org for another great internship opportunity!