Conservation Education Intern

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee's Conservation Education Department is pleased to provide a paid internship opportunity as part of our summer education (Zoo Camp) programs. This internship runs from the beginning of June until mid-August. Interns hired will help educate children ages 4-15 about science, animals, and conservation through interactive teaching strategies.

Successful candidates will assist instructors in classroom educational activities, lead Zoo tours, supervise and evaluate high school assistants (volunteers), prepare classroom materials, and other duties related to Zoo Camp as assigned. Interns will receive ongoing training and professional mentoring from Society Conservation Education staff and experienced Zoo Pride volunteers. 

Internship positions are open to any major of study for those passionate about education, wildlife, natural resources, and/or social sciences. This program does not offer direct animal handling or veterinary experience and does not provide housing.

For a complete application and consideration for a position, be sure to include a resume and cover letter. Phone screenings and interviews will begin in February. If you have any additional questions, please email Ana Dixon ([email protected]).

Rate of Pay: $12.35

Hours: 40 hours/week for 11 weeks (June 4 – mid to late August)

INTERNSHIP LEARNING OUTCOMES

Practice time management and prioritization skills by balancing day-to-day responsibilities with ongoing assignments.

Practice giving and receiving constructive feedback.

Learn how to communicate professionally with supervisors and mentors in the workplace.

Learn how to complete a professional self-evaluation.

Gain experience with mentoring and supervision, including training, goal setting, and evaluation.

Gain exposure to multiple zoo and conservation career paths through career talks and/or alumni mentors.

Learn how to present scientific content in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.

Learn and employ strong child management and interpersonal skills to connect to and relate with a diverse group of participants, family members, and volunteers.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Serve as Conservation Education intern for Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s summer education programs (Zoo Camps and Classes).

Study and learn curricula, prepare classroom materials, and set-up and clean classroom spaces.

Assist education instructors in classroom educational activities.

Lead fun, safe and interactive Zoo tours daily.

Implement policies and procedures to ensure a safe and engaging Zoo education experience for participants.

Mentor and evaluate High School volunteers with supervision by the Conservation Careers Coordinator and Specialist.

Act with integrity and professionalism in the workplace at all times, and in representation of ZSM on Zoo grounds.

Assist with Conservation Education Department light housekeeping.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Open to any major of study for those passionate about education, conservation, wildlife, natural resources, and/or social sciences (e.g., informal or formal education, conservation, zoology, biological sciences, forestry, human dimensions, psychology, etc.)

Must be First Aid/CPR/AED certified or be willing and able to become certified. Reimbursement is available for qualifying programs.

Must be able to attend mandatory trainings Thursday, June 4th – Saturday, June 6th, and Tuesday, June 9th - Friday, June 12th.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee believes diversity, equity, access, and inclusion (DEAI) are the hallmarks of a robust, vibrant community and have adopted DEAI as foundational to our organizations’ priorities and values. A successful candidate will embrace these values and incorporate a similar commitment within their scope of work to foster an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity, which is demonstrated through actions and words.

The Society provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in all its services. If you need accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources department at [email protected].