Objective
The Conservation Stewardship Intern will assist with implementation, facilitation, and program development of Shedd’s conservation and stewardship activities outside of Shedd, namely the Great Lakes Action Days (GLADs).

Summary
Shedd’s Great Lakes Action Day program aims to connect the public with stewardship opportunities in natural areas throughout the Chicagoland area. Conservation efforts focus on stewardship of the lake, river, and amphibian habitats, and activities include primarily litter clean-ups and habitat restoration (e.g., invasive plant removal, native seed collecting, native plantings, etc.). The program serves a wide audience ranging from young children to adults and hosts workdays for various groups, such as corporate teams, schools, and community organizations. Primary responsibilities include assisting with and implementing GLADs and associated projects.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.
• Assist with planning and executing Great Lake Action Days
• Help manage groups of volunteers in the field
• Learning and implementing best practices in ecological restoration
• Identification of native and invasive plant species
• Assist with equipment preparation and storage
• Data Entry for relevant program metrics
• Assist Conservation Action Manager and Facilitators as needed
• Other projects as assigned

Qualifications

• A love of the outdoors and working with people
• Comfortable interacting with and presenting in front of diverse audiences
• Ability to multitask
• Be enthusiastic and excited to work hard
• Enrolled in a degree program in science, education, conservation or related field
• Eager to work at Shedd Aquarium in a team environment
• Good public speaking, organizational and written communication skills
• Great work ethic and ability to work as part of a team
• Willingness to work outdoors and in a variety of weather conditions

Desired Majors: Environmental Science/Studies, Ecology, Biology, Conservation or Education

Other Skills/Characteristics:

• Experience in environmental conservation programming or stewardship work
• CPR/First Aid certified, Wilderness First Aid a plus
• Forest Preserve of Cook County Workday Leader Certified desirable but not required
• Current Illinois Pesticide Applicator or Operator license desirable but not required
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work in variable weather conditions

Time Commitment:

• Minimum of 12 hours per week
• Minimum of 3 months
• Preferred schedule for intern: Most events occur during 8am – 4pm Tuesday-Saturday. Saturday availability required. Flexible hours, but typically 12-24 hours per week.
• Set schedule based on intern availability

Application Deadline: August 31st, or until positions are filled, whichever comes first.