The Roving Naturalist Intern (seasonal) contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by engaging guests and providing informative and innovative education to increase guests' appreciation of animals and nature and to contribute to providing an exceptional guest experience. The basic function of this position is primarily to focus on (but not limited to) connecting guests with wildlife and nature through close-up animal encounters and animal-related chats.

The primary responsibilities include:

• Engage Zoo guests in celebrating animals and nature by providing all Zoo guests with the opportunity to have a quality, close-up encounter with, but not limited to a variety of domestic and exotic animals (reptiles). Participate in outreach events off zoo grounds.
• Offer animal-related chats throughout the Zoo daily.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements include:

• Minimum one year of college or an equivalent combination of training and/or work or volunteer experience in an informal educational setting, ideally at a zoo, aquarium, or nature center providing quality interpretive experiences.


• Internship(s) are available to King Conservation Science Scholar alumni or a current participant.


• Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills required.


• Must be comfortable speaking in front of the public and using a microphone.


• Must be outgoing, able to work well with others, follow directions carefully, and able to work independently with little supervision.


• Must be willing and able to work with a variety of invertebrates, including arachnids, crustaceans and insects, as well as reptiles, amphibians and fish, and a variety of exotic and domestic animals.


• Must be open to new experiences.


• Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.


• A valid driver's license is required on date of hire. If you are an Illinois resident, you must possess a valid Illinois driver's license at the time of hire or must obtain one within 90 days of hire. A valid out-of-state driver's license is required at time of hire if the employee is an out-of-state resident.

The preferred qualifications include:

• One year of college with coursework in the Life Sciences preferred.


• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information: Roving Naturalist Interns are assigned to work outdoors at a variety of locations along pathways and throughout the Zoo. This seasonal position lasts primarily between April and September depending on the needs of the operation. Incumbent must have the ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

Additional Information
This seasonal position is a paid Internship. Internship(s) may available to King Conservation Science Scholar (YVC) alumni or a current participant. Applicants for this position must also complete the internship application form at https://www.czs.org/Centers-of-Excellence/Center-for-Conservation-Leadership/Internships/Intern-Application-Form.aspx

The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.