College Experiential Learning Opportunities (Multiple Positions Available)
Brookfield Zoo
Due 2/18/18
Unpaid Internships
Brookfield Zoo
Opened in 1934, Brookfield Zoo is managed by the Chicago Zoological Society and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The Chicago Zoological Society is committed to developing people’s capacities and competencies, serving as a mentor and trainer, providing experiential learning opportunities to individuals seeking to understand, develop, and establish careers in the fields of zoology and conservation.
In fulfilling this role, the Society has a long-standing Internship Program that has been recognized as one of the top programs for college students in the country. The program, established in 1975, was one of the first in the nation to allow students pursuing careers in animal care the opportunity to work side by side with professional zookeepers, learning the skills and techniques necessary to manage exotic zoo animals. Since that time, the Internship Program, now called the College Experiential Learning Opportunities program, has evolved to include internships and research opportunities in a variety of areas and fields.
C.E.L.O. Offers You:
- Mentoring and Coaching
- Training
- Hands-on, relevant, real experience
- Unique experiences in a diverse setting
Curent C.E.L.O Opportunities Available:
- Animal Care Specialist
- Animal Care Specialist internships are available with a variety of animals: Large animals, Domestics, Small animals, Birds, Reptiles, Hoof Stock, Amphibians, Marine Animals, and Nutrition. Specific opportunities vary from term to term based on department needs.
- Animal Curator Intern
- This intern works directly with the Associate Curator for Mammals. Intern will assist curator in daily activities and learn about the overall care of the animals. The intern will assist in the development of written materials describing animal care methods, biological data management etc.
- Marine Mammal Care
- Candidates for this placement should be comfortable around water and passionate about marine mammal care.
- Development & Fundraising
- Interns will gain on-the-job training and experience in the Development/Fundraising field. This position will serve to help expand and refine our donor relations and assist with the planning and coordination of events.
- Early Childhood Education
- This position contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing interns with exposure and opportunities to understand the programmatic and operational resources necessary to provide meaningful experiences for early learners and families to connect with nature and animals in a safe zoo setting. Internship is designed for individuals interested in informal education careers in zoo and/or museum settings. Experiences are designed to provide an overview of working in an accredited zoological park or conservation organization. Intern will work to advance workplace appropriate behaviors and communication skills.
- Education Research
- This position contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing interns with exposure and opportunities to understand the programmatic and operational resources necessary to provide meaningful educational experiences. Interns will gain an understanding of the activities of Chicago Zoological Society’s Education Research Department at Brookfield Zoo, such as science education research projects and educational programs project management. Internship is designed for individuals interested in informal education careers in zoo and/or museum settings. Experiences are designed to provide an overview of working in an accredited zoological park or conservation organization.
- Enrichment Workshop
- This position contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by expanding and refining our material knowledge in the design and production of naturalistic durable enrichment devices for animals on exhibit. By working alongside artists who are dedicated to the creation of enrichment, you will help produce enrichment devices that encourage natural behaviors and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the exhibit.
- Environmental Quality
- This position contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing seasonal support for the Environmental Quality Manager to monitor the various environments provided for animals at the Zoo using a variety of instrumentation and techniques, and to report the findings (and any potential issues) to the appropriate AP Managers and staff. This includes, but is not limited to, routine water quality sampling and analysis for all re-circulating aquatic systems, routine air sampling and analysis of areas of the zoo that may present health issues for animals, the analysis and assessment of artificial UV lighting used for indoor exhibitry, and the routine use of a toolkit designed to assess outdoor exhibits to determine if enough shade or heat had been provided.
- Human Resources – Training & E-Learning
- This on-site e-learning development internship position is e-learning project-based and created in exchange for academic course credits or for a short-term paid internship. The position contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by developing and enhancing human capital and capacity through on-the-job learning, and to stimulate interest in a career in a non-profit, cultural, or zoological organization.
- Zoo Camp Inclusion Aide
- This internship contributes to the success of CZS by supporting children with disabilities in Zoo Camp to support our mission of connecting all children with nature and animals regardless of ability, in a fun and inclusive environment. This internship is designed for individuals interested in pursuing careers working with individuals with disabilities in educational or recreational settings. Interns will have opportunities for training and practice in: inclusive curriculum development, support strategies, behavior management, disability awareness and accessibility.
Minimum Requirements:
- Completion of one (1) year of college or equivalent (approximately 24 credit hours)
- Overall grade point average of 2.2 (out of 4.0)
- Be willing to commit to a 12 week term (generally 5 days/week, 40 hours per week) for all animal care internships. Other areas often take part time interns.
- Have a sincere interest in the particular field where the intern desires placement.
- Some positions require more experience or specific skills. Please read each position description below to determine whether or not you are qualified.
Application Details
Students who want to be considered for an internship or participation in the work-study program must complete:
- C.E.L.O Online Form - found at https://www.czs.org/Centers-of-Excellence/Center-for-Conservation-Leadership/Internships.aspx
- Professional cover letter describing your particular interest.
- Two (2) professional letters of recommendation that include a candid assessment of the candidate’s aptitude, qualifications, background, and suitability for the program. References should include the length and capacity in which the individual has known the applicant as well as contact information should more information be needed. (Letters may be sent separately by references.)
- An unofficial or official copy of the applicant’s most recent transcripts for all of the colleges or universities attended. Official copies will be required if you are offered a position.
Please submit applications via mail (address below), fax: 708-688-7361, or email (.pdf files are best, no Google Docs will be accepted): interns@czs.org. No phone calls please.
Chicago Zoological Society – Brookfield Zoo
C.E.L.O. Program
3300 Golf Road
Brookfield, IL 60513
