Share your passion for animals and conservation!

The mission of the Chicago Zoological Society is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people with wildlife and nature.

Since the opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934, the Society has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. The Society is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world's longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs.

The Assistant Roving Naturalist Intern (seasonal) contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing excellent guest service and innovative education. The basic function of this position is to work with Roving Naturalists in interpretive programming with a primary focus on (but not limited to) connecting guests with wildlife and nature. Under supervision, Assistant Roving Naturalist Interns help implement a variety of animal encounters, activities, games and informal presentations at a variety of exhibits/locations throughout the zoo.

The primary duties and responsibilities:

• Under supervision, engages guests in celebrating animals and nature by interpreting animals and conducting daily zoo chats for zoo guests.
• Under supervision, learn to develop and implement daily thematic presentations.
• Under supervision offers animal related activities throughout the zoo.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position:

• Minimum two years of high school required.


• Internships are available for individuals currently participating in the King Conservation Science Scholars program.


• Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills.


• Must be outgoing and able to work independently.


• Must be able to work well with others and able to take and follow directions carefully.


• Must be willing to work with a variety of invertebrates, including arachnids, crustaceans and insects.


• Must be open to new experiences.

The preferred qualifications:

• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information: This seasonal Intern position lasts from approximately the end of May through August. Incumbent must have ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. Work schedules are based on the needs of the operation. Assistant Roving Naturalists are assigned to work outdoors at a variety of locations such as Dragonfly Marsh, North and South gates, seasonal/temporary exhibits, along pathways and throughout zoo grounds.

Additional Information
This seasonal position is a paid Internship. Internship(s) may available for individuals participating in the King Conservation Science Scholar program. Applicants for this position must also complete the internship application form at https://www.czs.org/Centers-of-Excellence/Center-for-Conservation-Leadership/Internships.aspx

Incumbents must attend a new hire orientation prior to starting and must be available for required training May 22, 23, 24 & 26, 2017.

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