Public Horticulture Intern (paid)

Lincoln Park Zoological Society • Chicago, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Horticulture Intern is a full-time, paid seasonal position in Lincoln Park Zoo’s Animal Care and Horticulture department, running from the beginning of January to the end of March for up to 500 hours. The intern works with the Director of Horticulture, the Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs, and horticulture staff in a public garden, botanic garden, and arboretum at a zoo. The role builds vocational horticulture skills through winter and early-spring care of Chicago-area plants and plants in a conservatory setting.

The internship is project-based and focuses on research into indoor tropical plants and their use in a zoo setting. The intern concludes the project with a presentation. The position also provides experience in plant identification, zoo horticulture, natural-area maintenance, and horticultural garden maintenance, while developing written and oral presentation skills.

Requirements

• High school degree or equivalent and an interest in studying horticulture, plant science, or a related field.
• Ability to identify, or willingness to learn to identify, common ornamental, landscape, and tropical plants.
• Ability to understand, communicate, and carry out directions in verbal and written English.
• Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors, and the general public.
• A valid Illinois driver’s license and maintenance of a good driving record.
• Availability to work assigned special events that may occur outside the regular work schedule.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, remain on feet for long periods, and frequently bend, stoop, reach, and climb.
• Ability to safely and effectively use program tools and equipment; move about on sometimes slippery or muddy surfaces; work in all weather conditions, including winter conditions; and work on uneven terrain.
• No plant or animal allergy that may interfere with the ability to work.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices.

Responsibilities

• Participate in garden maintenance, including pruning, weeding, planting, watering, and integrative pest management.
• Assist with loading, unloading, and transporting plant material, garden equipment, and tools.
• Participate in the design, installation, and maintenance of display plants, permanent collection plants, and plant signage under the guidance of the Director of Horticulture and/or Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs.
• Maintain the inventory, cleanliness, and function of daily-use tools and supplies.
• Support the Manager of Horticulture Operations with general tool maintenance and organization.
• Compile research on plant selections and identification guides for browse species.
• Maintain cleanliness, order, and safety in the work environment.
• Work independently and in groups with other zoo staff and volunteers.
• Complete a research project on indoor tropical plants and their use in a zoo setting and present the project.
• Represent the zoo at internal or external functions when asked, such as donor tours, special events, horticulture programming, professional meetings, and conferences.
• Use an electric cart or wagon to move supplies and debris when needed.
• Direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency when asked.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions.
• Free on-site parking anytime, with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach.
• Discounts on event tickets, attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo; free admission to select events.
• Quarterly staff mingle events and LPZooU training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects.
• Company contribution to a Health Savings Account for employees enrolled in the Medical PPO.
• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED