Public Horticulture Intern

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. Lincoln Park Zoo is a level III accredited arboretum and an accredited botanic garden.

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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 seasonal position up to 500 hours, running from the beginning of January to the end of March. They will get the unique opportunity to work in a public garden, botanic garden, and arboretum at a zoo. The intern will work with the Director of Horticulture, Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs, and horticulture staff to build a general knowledge of vocational horticulture skills, learning about winter and early spring plant care for Chicago area plants, as well as in a conservatory setting.

The internship will be project-based, focusing on a research project pertaining to indoor tropical plants and their use in a zoo setting, and will conclude with a presentation on their project.

• Participate in garden maintenance including pruning, weeding, planting, watering, and integrative pest management.
• Assist in the loading, unloading, and transportation of plant material, garden equipment and tools.
• Participate in the design, installation, and maintenance of display plants, permanent collections plants, and plant signage 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 Manager of Horticulture Operations in general tool maintenance and organization.
• Compile research on plant selections and identification guides for browse species.
• Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of their working environment for those in and surrounding the work site.
• Frequently work independently and in groups with other zoo staff and volunteers.

• Build a foundation of vocational skills in horticulture, caring for indoor and outdoor gardens over the winter.
• Gain experience in plant identification, zoo horticulture, natural area maintenance, and horticultural garden maintenance.
• Develop written and oral presentation skills.

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

• Ability to identify or willingness to learn 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.
• Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices helpful.

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

Ability to lift on an occasional basis up to 50 lbs. Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time. Ability to…