Intern - Dive Operations - Fall 2026

Position Summary:

The program offers interns hands-on experience in Georgia Aquarium’s Dive Operations department. Dive Operations interns will dive in and clean exhibits around the aquarium. They will begin as a scuba diver in the Ocean Voyager and Beluga exhibits and later be trained in Surface Supplied Diving allowing dives in many other exhibits. There will also be opportunities to learn and perform various tasks such as cylinder filling, dive gear maintenance, surface support, and various administrative tasks. This internship should be considered exploratory as every day will present different opportunities and challenges. This internship will give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields where they are considering pursuing careers.

Responsibilities:

1. Complete Diver Onboarding within the first month of internship, including: complete dive physical, pass swim and dive evaluation, complete DAN DFA Pro, complete Diver Orientation and Diver 101, and complete Mentor Training
2. Train in different exhibits, mastering the following training:
   1. Fill Station Operation
   2. Surface Supply Training
   3. Tender Training
3. If applicable, train on more advanced diving techniques and maintenance objectives including:
   1. Maintenance Clinics (Regulators, Umbilical)
   2. Armada/Meridian Training
   3. Extrication Drills
4. Be supervised by approved staff at all times during their program, but will greatly benefit from demonstrating the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Qualifications:       

1. Possess an Open Water Diving certification or higher from an internationally recognized agency
2. Once selected, final acceptance is contingent upon passing a swim/dive evaluation and a dive physical
   1. Physical fees will be waived for interns accepted into the program
3. This internship involves substantial physical labor, and therefore interns must be able to climb stairs and ladders, and must be able to carry dive equipment and exit each exhibit unassisted while wearing dive gear.
4. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office
5. Interns must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
6. This internship requires a regular schedule of 3-4 days per week and may include weekends and holidays. Average hours per week are 25 – 40.
7. Must have a high school diploma or GED
8. This is an experience-based, paid internship.
9. Application Requirement: The internship application will require a resume and cover letter. Please submit as a PDF with a file name that indicates your name and the internship you’re applying for. Example: John_Smith_Internship_Resume.

Important Dates for Fall 2026 Semester:

Application Deadline: Friday, July 17th. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and may close before the official deadline.

Mandatory Fall 2026 Orientation: Thursday, October 1st, 2026.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, kneel; and must be able to carry dive equipment and exit each exhibit unassisted while wearing dive gear.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Commitment:

I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. to be a part of the following:

Mission: Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and Aquatic animals worldwide.

 Vision:  To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.

Values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion.