Zoo Conservation Internship

Internship (Summer) - Zoo Conservation

Salary

$0.00 Hourly

Location

Bloomington, IL

Job Type

Seasonal

Job Number

00549

Department

Parks & Recreation

Division

Miller Park Zoo

Opening Date

01/02/2024

Closing Date

5/11/2024 11:59 PM Central

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Description

The Miller Park Zoo is in Bloomington, IL in Central Illinois.  It is one of the smallest AZA-Accredited institutions at 4 acres but has a very diverse animal collection.  The Miller Park Zoo has several conservation initiatives that fit well with an internship program. 

This internship program is designed to provide learning opportunities and practical experience, while gaining valuable knowledge relating to a career in wildlife conservation. The Conservation Intern will assist the Zoo Curator and Superintendent of Parks Maintenance with the preparation and facilitation of conservation programs, the majority of which will be field work but will also include research and helping with on-site programs. Our internship offers a hands-on opportunity to work in a conservation program in a zoological setting.  

Interns will be involved in the organization of Zoo activities and programs that engage Zoo staff in sustainability and conservation work. Internship will take place at the Zoo with time split between the Zoo and off-grounds.  

Examples of Duties

This list may not include all tasks and/or knowledge which may be expected of the employee, nor does it cover all specific duties which may be required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Maintain Beehives both on and off Zoo grounds
• Maintain Pollinator Gardens both on and off Zoo grounds
• Maintain Puerto Rican Crested Toad breeding population  (other new programs coming soon)
• Assist with Animal Care
• Give presentations to Zoo Guests
• Will be expected to complete a conservation project by the end of the season.

Typical Qualifications

General Skills:

• Applicants interested in this position should be detail oriented, dependable and exhibit excellent communication skills.
• Ability to conduct research, compile and analyze data
• Passion for sustainability, conservation, and wildlife
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, particularly Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Exhibit excellent oral communication and writing skills, including public speaking
• Ability to multi-task and excel in a fast-paced environment
• Effective project management skills are essential
• Experience working in the field is preferred, it is however essential that the candidate enjoys working outdoors
• Interns need to have a current (within the last 12 months) negative TB test, and tetanus shot
• Demonstrate maturity, self-motivation, and an ability to follow direction

Required Education/Experience:

• 3rd or 4th year college students working toward a sustainability/conservation related career in a wildlife, environmental, communication, or education-related field. A recent college graduate with this focus will also be considered.

Certificates or Licenses: None

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• This opportunity involves moderate physical activity. Walking and lots of time outside may be required for specific projects, in all different weather conditions including heat, humidity, rain, cold, or dust. It may also involve considerable physical exertion such as reaching, repetitive motions, and lifting and/or moving heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.). Due to the nature of this environment, interns will have heavy public contact requiring considerable interpersonal skills, extensive interaction with the public, donors, and Zoo members.