Summer Field Research Intern Urban Wildlife Institute paid
Summer Field Research Intern Urban Wildlife Institute paid
Employer Active
Job Alert
You will be updated with latest job alerts via email
Share
Job Alert
You will be updated with latest job alerts via email
Not Disclosed
Salary Not Disclosed
1 Vacancy
Job Description
Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation animal care and welfare learning and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868 the notforprofit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privatelymanaged membersupported organization and is free and open 365 days a year.
General Summary
The Urban Wildlife Institute Field Research intern will gain valuable experience by assisting the Urban Wildlife Institute with field research projects both on the zoo grounds and in the Greater Chicago area. Primary responsibilities will focus on projects related to biodiversity monitoring of bats and terrestrial mammals a behavior change project aimed to improve coexistence between humans and wildlife as well as One Health projects including tick surveys and rat management. Responsibilities will include preparing equipment and troubleshooting issues assisting with field work in Chicago and surrounding suburbs (transportation from zoo provided) conducting literature searches uploading and managing data and tagging and analyzing images from wildlife cameras. This position may also assist with other zoobased ecological research studies including management of the Blackcrowned night heron colony. The intern should be selfmotivated adaptable and enthusiastic to work both in the field and in front of a computer as some office/virtual work will be likely. Based on existing research the intern will also have an opportunity to design and execute a unique project of interest. In addition to scientific monitoring you will gain experience communicating the importance of urban nature by interacting with people of various ages backgrounds and knowledge levels through camp programs university tours or community outreach events in which UWI may be asked to participate.
This position requires accessing areas that are off trail on uneven terrain through sometimes thick vegetation and being outdoors in all weather conditions. Must be able to transport equipment of up to 10 lbs from the vehicle to field site at times off pathways and over uneven terrain. This is a paid fulltime 35 hours/week) 12week position that begins in late May/early June. Applications will be reviewed beginning April 7 and will continue until the position is filled. Housing is not provided. Applicants should submit a cover letter and CV or resume.
Learning Objectives
The intern will learn:
- about urban wildlife ecology and gain experience with field techniques for studying wildlife;
- how to manage data interpret collected data and design and conduct a scientific study;
- how to communicate science in person and through written communication.
Essential Job Functions
- Assist with biodiversity monitoring and One Health field projects in the greater Chicago area. Projects may include using camera and acoustic monitoring for mammals and birds tick monitoring and rat surveys;
- Assist with ongrounds research projects including blackcrowned night heron management turtle monitoring and other projects as needed;
- Assist with inoffice projects including trail camera photo review data management literature searches and written scientific communication (e.g. data summaries or blog posts);
- Perform data entry and management with high attention to detail and enthusiasm;
- Test inventory and prepare field equipment & supplies;
- Local travel in Chicago for field projects (transportation from zoo provided); comfortable working accompanied in city alleys and urban green spaces;
- Serve as a credible source of information about our research;
- Complete a personal project that is mutually agreed upon by the intern and supervisor.
Additional Responsibilities
- Attend Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Urban Wildlife Instituterelated activities as necessary;
- Participate in professional development and networking activities as part of the zoo intern program;
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge Skills & Abilities
The applicant should:
- Demonstrate a passion for and understanding of ecology and scientific research;
- Possess some knowledge of field techniques for wildlife research; possess knowledge of Illinois fauna especially birds and mammals.
- Possess strong computer organizational and interpersonal skills (written and spoken);
- Be willing to work outside in challenging field conditions (i.e. hot and buggy); willingness to work early morning hours as necessary;
- Be able to interact positively and enthusiastically with the public about our research when appropriate;
- Work well in a team environment as well as independently;
- Be selfmotivated to stay on task when working virtually;
- Have experience with diverse backgrounds and multicultural environments;
- Maintain a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibilities;
- Must possess a valid drivers license.
Educational Requirements
- Bachelors Degree (in progress or completed within two years) preferably in biology ecology natural resources or related field.
Preferred Experience
We prefer applicants that:
- Have assisted with wildlife ecological studies including use of acoustic recorders remotetriggered cameras or have some fieldwork experience;
- Are familiar with some software programs including program Microsoft Excel Program R or ArcGIS/QGIS.
- Possess some knowledge of Illinois fauna
Additional Requirements
- Proof of full COVID19 vaccination defined as twoweeks after second vaccination of a twodose vaccine series (Pfizer or Moderna) or twoweeks after a singledose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)
DURATION: May/JuneAugust; 12 weeks
Scheduling: Full time 35hrs/wk)
OUR PROMISE
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities perspectives values and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS
In addition to such standard benefits Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical dental vision life and disability coverages and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):
- Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
- Free onsite parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park Lakeshore Trail and North Avenue Beach
- Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events) attractions dining and retail at the zoo
- Quarterly staff mingle events and LPZooU training and educational sessions about the zoo wildlife ecology and related subjects
- Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
- A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!
Required Experience:
Intern
Employment Type
Full-Time
