Kelp Forest Scientific Diving Internship

About the Role

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to contribute to research focused on understanding kelp forest recovery mechanisms in California. The work involves scientific scuba diving and laboratory assays, primarily along the Monterey Peninsula and in Carmel Bay. The intern is expected to spend approximately 70% of their time in the field and 30% in the laboratory, with flexibility based on research needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in scuba-based data collection at depths less than 70 feet.
• Support the organization and coordination of logistics for day-to-day field activities.
• Maintain scientific sampling equipment.
• Perform data entry and quality control.
• Conduct laboratory assays.
• Contribute to the development of technical reports.
• Present a project-based report in the form of an oral presentation at the end of the internship.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Scientific scuba diving is an essential function of this position.
• Ability to work in a team environment and independently without direct supervision.
• Strong interpersonal communication and decision-making skills.
• Comfort in a laboratory environment.
• Comfort with field research, including prolonged exposure to cold water and frequently adverse sea conditions.
• Internship duration: February 2027 through July 2027, with flexible exact dates.
• Commitment: Six-month commitment of 3 full days each week (no weekends) for approximately 24 hours/week.
• Willingness to perform project task assignments on a flexible schedule.
• Willingness to spend up to 8 hours at a time at sea in small boats conducting scientific diving operations.
• Willingness to conduct 3 scientific dives in cold water (average water temperatures is 52 degrees F) per day.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and walk a short distance over hilly terrain.
• Strong interest in marine ecology.
• Detail-driven and highly organized, with proven ability to multitask, make effective decisions, and work independently with minimal oversight.
• Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues.
• Familiarity with basic data management and analysis using R is a plus.

Mandatory Requirements

• Authorization to work in the US (visa sponsorship is not provided).
• At least 18 years of age.
• Current or recent student at an accredited college, university, tech, or trade school.
• Must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship opportunity (not to exceed 1-year education gap).
• Must be in good academic standing.
• Must have or obtain a valid California's driver's license within one month of starting the internship.
• Current First Aid, CPR, and Oxygen Administration certification/training.
• Minimum 60 logged dives in cold water.
• Kelp forests diving experience is preferred.
• Diving from small boats experience is desired.
• Knowledge of kelp forest taxonomy and species identification, specifically marine invertebrates and algae.
• Applicants must provide a letter of reciprocity (LOR) from a participating AAUS institution certifying qualification as a Scientific Research Diver prior to employment.

Qualifications

• Experience through coursework conducting research in a laboratory setting.
• Nitrox certification is preferred.

Application Period

Applications are due by end of day November 20, 2026. Early submission is encouraged.

Application Documents to Upload

• Resume/CV including relevant courses and/or experience.
• Letter of interest (maximum 2 pages, 12 pt. font Times New Roman).
• Letter of Reciprocity from Home Institution indicating active status as an AAUS Scientific Diver.
• Two Letters of Recommendation.

Hourly rate: $18.00 USD