Location: Bar Harbor, Maine, USA Organization: Allied Whale (College of the Atlantic) & Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. Type: Research Internship/Assistant Position Duration: Summer position (May 15 - Aug 31) or Full season (May 15 - Oct 15) Positions available: 4 (1 summer, 3 full season)
Role Overview:
- Marine mammal research combining Allied Whale activities and commercial whale watching
- Focus on humpback/fin whale ecology, photo ID catalogs, stranding response
- Work includes offshore research station duties at Mount Desert Rock
Key Responsibilities:
- Whale watch duties: Photo ID, data collection, passenger education, deck operations
- Office work: Catalog matching, database management, stranding response
- Research vessel operations: Biopsy sample collection, photo ID
- Mount Desert Rock station: Whale monitoring, seal counts, facility maintenance
Requirements:
- US citizenship or permanent residency (Coast Guard requirement)
- College background in biology/ecology/marine sciences (sophomore or higher)
- Positive attitude and flexibility with changing schedules
- Ability to work independently and in teams
- Comfort working on boats in various weather conditions
Compensation:
- $70 per whale watch trip
- Free First Aid Certification
- Housing available (mandatory) in Bar Harbor:
- Summer interns: ~$2080 total
- Full season: ~$2350 total
- Free food during Mount Desert Rock shifts
Application: Send to alliedwhale.internships@gmail.com:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Two recommendation letters
- Specify preferred position (summer/full-season)
Deadline: February 23rd, 2025
EOE statement included; DEI commitment details at coa.edu/about/dei/
