Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Mondays–Fridays

June 23–August 8

Orientation: Saturday, June 7

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

CLICK TO APPLY

Overview

The Malott Family Zoo Intern Program provides Chicago high school students with the opportunity to learn about Lincoln Park Zoo while educating others about animal and conservation science. Interns will meet in person at the zoo for a seven-week paid program to investigate informal education techniques, consider how to communicate conservation messages to zoo guests, and create and present a culminating project which promotes positive and attainable conservation practices. Interns also meet with researchers and Animal Care staff to learn more about potential careers in the animal science and conservation fields.

The application for summer 2025 opens Saturday, February 1 and closes Monday, March 10. No applications will be accepted after the March 10 deadline.

More Information

Eligibility

To qualify, an applicant must:

  • Be a resident of the city of Chicago.
  • Be entering grades 10–12 or their freshman year of college in fall 2025.
  • Be 16–18 years old by June 7, 2025.
  • Be legally allowed to work in the United States.
  • Have proof of identity and authorization to work in the U.S., in accordance with federal law.
  • Have proof of identity and authorization to work in the U.S., in accordance with federal law.

Absences

Program participants must be available for orientation on Saturday, June 7, and all days of training. Planned absences that do not occur during training and which have been discussed with a supervisor are possible. However, long absences (such as a week-long family vacation) may disqualify a candidate from the program, as an intern would miss too many events and activities.

The program does not run July 4–5.

 

Want To Learn More?

    • If you plan on applying to any of the summer opportunities at Lincoln Park Zoo and are interested in learning more about how to submit a high-quality application, we plan to hold several virtual help sessions based on demand. Please email zooteens@lpzoo.org and place “Teen Programs” in the subject line to express interest.
    • Are you planning to apply to one of our summer teen programs? Do you have questions about how to submit a high-quality application? Drop by one of our virtual application information sessions on Zoom to chat directly with Teen Programs staff:
      • Thursday, February 27, 5–6:30 p.m.
      • Thursday, March 6, 5–6:30 p.m.

      RSVP in advance to receive the Zoom link and password. Click here to RSVP.

FAQs

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Will I work with animals?

No. Interns do not work directly with animals. However, projects will directly relate to animals and will involve activities such as observing animals in their natural and/or zoo habitats. Interns may also experience special opportunities, like behind-the-scenes tours and presentations from zoo professionals, to learn more about zoo career paths.

What kinds of projects can I expect to be working on over the summer?

In addition to learning to communicate with zoo guests, interns complete self-directed culminating projects like the digital games featured here.

Will there be an interview?

In March, invited applicants will come to the zoo for a half-day group interview. You’ll get to see animals, meet zoo staff, network with fellow applicants, and tell us why you’re excited about this position.

Can I apply for multiple programs?

Yes! Applicants can apply to every program simultaneously. Please note: Eligibility requirements vary between programs.

How will I know if I’ve been accepted?

We will contact all applicants via email by Friday, March 28, whether or not they have been selected for an interview.

Do I need to know a lot about animals beforehand?

No! All you need is a curious mind. Training is provided at the beginning of the program to introduce interns to the zoo and zoo animals.

What do I need to participate?

Because the Malott Family Zoo Intern Program is an in-person program, participants will need a reliable way to reach the zoo each day.

COVID-19 vaccinations are required for all zoo staff and volunteers, including teen interns. If you are selected for the program, proof of vaccination must be provided in order to participate.

Questions?

To learn more about the Malott Family Zoo Intern Program, please email zooteens@lpzoo.org.

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