Public Horticulture Intern

Job Description

The department of Animal Care and Horticulture is an integrated team that cares for the animals and plants that live at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

The Public Horticulture Intern is a full-time paid position up to 460 hours. The intern will work with the Director of Horticulture and Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs to build a general knowledge of public horticulture, studying and learning plants that thrive in the Chicago area, as well as in a conservatory setting, and utilizing the resources provided by the zoo to further develop themselves professionally. They will also get the unique opportunity to work in a public garden, botanic garden, and arboretum at a zoo. The internship will be project-based, depending on the interest of the candidate, and will conclude with a presentation on their project.

About Us

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

Duties & Responsibilities

Assist in plant inventories, data validation, and data input into the plant records database.
Assist in the manufacturing and installation of accession and interpretive labels in the zoo gardens.
Frequently work independently and in groups with other zoo staff and volunteers.
Assist in the loading, unloading, and transportation of plants, garden equipment and materials.
Participate in garden maintenance, including grooming, weeding, watering, mowing, and mulching.
Participate in the installation of display plants and permanent collections plants under the guidance of Director of Horticulture and/or Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs.
Maintain inventory, cleanliness, and function of daily use tools and supplies. Support the Assistant Manager of Horticulture Operations in general tool maintenance and organization.
Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of their working environment for those in and surrounding the work site.

Education and Experience

High school degree or equivalent with an interest in studying horticulture, plant science, or a related field.

Additional Information

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Build a foundation of understanding for the curation and management of a public garden.
Gain experience in plant identification, plant records, data management, and horticulture maintenance.
Develop written and oral presentation skills.
Visit other local public gardens to gain a better understanding of the field of public horticulture.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

May be asked to represent the zoo at internal and external functions, including but not limited to zoo donor tours, zoo special events and professional meetings and conferences.
May use electric cart or hand truck to move supplies and debris.
May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency.
May be asked to participate in zoo horticulture-related programming.
Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Ability to identify or willingness to learn common ornamental and native landscape plants.
Ability to communicate in verbal and written English.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions.
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.
Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices helpful.

Application Instructions

To apply, visit the zoo’s job postings: https://www.lpzoo.org/about-the-zoo/join-our-team/employment-opportunities/