Sea Turtle E.E. Just Fellow, Fall 2026

What is the E.E. Just Fellowship and Who Should Apply

The E.E. Just Fellowship at the South Carolina Aquarium is a workforce development program aimed at increasing diversity in the aquarium and conservation fields. In tribute to African American biologist and Charleston native Ernest Everett Just (1883-1941), the program seeks to increase pathways to science careers for HBCU college students and recent HBCU college graduates with coursework or degrees focused on marine science, biology, natural sciences, or animal science who have a passion for conservation and species preservation. The Sea Turtle Care Center Fellowship is best suited for graduating or recent alumni with an interest in pursuing a career in animal rehabilitation and veterinary care. 

Application Instructions and Key Dates

1. Internship duration: October 1, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027
2.  Applications close May 31, 2026
3. Selected applicants will be notified by July 31, 2026

Description

Sea Turtle Care Center Fellows have the opportunity to learn about and participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native sea turtle species. Fellows will assist staff in all aspects of the daily care of sick and injured sea turtles, occasional medical procedures, and educational programs. The overall goal of our fellowship program is to help fellows learn the ins and outs of sea turtle rehabilitation to help prepare for a career in the field.

Fall-Spring Season Specifications

The Sea Turtle Care Center is the only sea turtle hospital in the state of South Carolina. Winter is our slower season in regard to local strandings. If tank space allows, we assist northern sea turtle rehabilitation facilities by taking several cold stun patients. This allows for the opportunity to learn how to admit a higher number of turtles at one time and to learn valuable hands-on knowledge of a common cause of stranding every winter throughout the country.  While local releases remain temperature dependent during this time of year, it is possible that you will get the chance to participate in a release in Florida.  

Commitment & Qualifications

• Length of fellowship: 22wks
• Hours per week: 35-40. Will require flexible hours such as long days, weekend shifts, occasional late night/early morning work, and holiday coverage.
• Education level: Recent college graduates with a background in biology, zoology, animal science, or related field.  

Necessary Additional Skills

• Demonstrates interest in environmental conservation, rehabilitation or wildlife biology
• Willingness to interact professionally with the public and other staff
• Ability to work with a team independently 
• Must be able to demonstrate initiative and be detail oriented

Physical Requirements

Often requires walking, standing, and bending. Regularly requires stooping, crouching, climbing ladders/steps, carrying up to 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, pushing/pulling, working with tools and working in tight spaces. 

Compensation & Benefits

• Fellows will be provided with a $14.50 hourly stipend. 
• Housing stipend available.  
• Our desired schedule is to work four days with three consecutive days off. 
• We offer professional development workshops to help you become a more competitive job candidate. 
• A reciprocity pass to local attractions and aquarium tickets.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel classified.

The Aquarium is an "at-will" employer, and as such, employment with the Aquarium is not for a fixed term, or definite period and may be terminated at the will of either party, with or without cause, and without prior notice.  

The Aquarium is a drug-free and alcohol-free employer.   Drug and background screenings are administered for all positions.