Objective  
Work directly with the External Affairs and Communications staff to implement daily media relations, internal and external communications projects, events and activities that help position Shedd as an established conservation organization dedicated to protecting and preserving wildlife for the future. 
 
Summary 
The intern will gain exposure to a variety of media relations opportunities, including cultural and environmental issues through a variety of communications projects. There will also be opportunities to create connections to other Shedd staff and interns through formal and informal trainings as well as mentorship opportunities. We value our interns and they are considered part of the team. 
 
Responsibilities & Duties 

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values. 
• Develop a deep understanding of Shedd Aquarium’s science, conservation and sustainability programs. 
• Translate conservation topics and scientific research for the general public to build affinity for science. 
• Willingness to interact with both internal and external audiences via telephone or in-person. Updates Manager of Conservation Communications accordingly. 
• Light media pitching; returning media requests. 
• Assist in drafting press releases and pitches. 
• Assisting staff with internal communication needs. 
• Coordinating logistics for media interview opportunities and events. 
• Producing background research on science, conservation and sustainability industry news. 

 
Projects May Include 

• Work closely with the Conservation Communications Manager to provide support for the Aquarium’s integrated public relations plans, primarily focusing on conservation and sustainability efforts. 
• Develop pitches, story ideas and communications assets to help share our stories about conservation programs, conservation research and sustainability.  
• Assist with drafting press releases and pitches about applied research, habitat restoration programs, sustainability initiatives and relevant conservation topics.  
• Assist with drafting, posting and monitoring social media content for Shedd Aquarium’s Great Lakes and Research Twitter channels.  
• Use the Cision media contact database to pull new science and conservation media lists or add to existing lists for press announcements. 
• Research science media contacts with interests in topics that Shedd Aquarium has an expertise in.  
• Coordinate logistics for media interview opportunities and events such as influencer exclusives, field research trips, the Kayak for Conservation program and Great Lakes Action Days. 
• Use the Trendkite media monitoring database to track media coverage and pull excel media coverage reports.  
• Assist PR staff with external and internal communication needs. 
• Respond, gather information and assist with coordinating media requests.  
• Participate in team brainstorm sessions prior to “celebration days,” announcements or campaigns. 
• Support the public relations team on general Shedd Aquarium projects. 
• Other projects as assigned

Qualifications 
 
Education: Enrolled as a junior or senior in an undergraduate program for public relations, communications, journalism, science writing, sustainability or related field. 
 
Other Skills:  
The Conservation Communications Intern must possess excellent written and verbal communications skills, baseline knowledge about AP Style and preferably have previous experience with some light media relations. A candidate must be able to multitask, have excellent organizational skills, be deadline-oriented, have the ability to work independently, be energetic and have an eagerness to learn. As a position focused on Shedd Aquarium’s science, conservation and sustainability programs, a qualified candidate must have an interest in science communications. 
 
Intern should be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and must be able to work flexible hours including some early mornings, nights and weekends as necessary, as well as walk/stand for extended periods of time. Professional work ethic and demeanor is imperative. 
 
Time Commitment 
Two to four days a week; 16 to 24 hours weekly (set schedule will be determined based on intern availability).  Minimum of 12 weeks preferred.

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