Internship: Communications
Department: External Affairs & Marketing
Status: Temporary, non-exempt
Pay Rate: $17.00/hr
Location: Hybrid
Season: Summer 2026 (6/1/26-8/21/26)
Application Deadline: March 16 at 5pm CST
 
Shedd Internship Program
Shedd Aquarium's Internship Program aims to provide meaningful career exploration for those seeking professions in non-profits, animal care, conservation, research, and beyond.  We hope to inspire and develop future professionals as diverse as the aquatic world we care for.

These opportunities are geared toward those that are new to the field and just starting to establish a career. They have the skills and knowledge, but not necessarily the real-world application.

We welcome applications from all levels of experience, including those seeking career exploration or changes, gap year students, freshmen, sophomores, and those seeking first internships.

Department Overview: 
The public relations team at Shedd aims to vigorously advance the aquarium’s mission, both internally and externally, through the promotion, protection and preservation of the aquarium’s reputation and business. We develop and implement aquarium-wide internal and external communications strategies, develop and maintain long-term and meaningful relationships, and oversee crisis communication planning. 

Environment:
Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, the Communications Intern will work directly with PR staff and members of the broader External Affairs and Marketing team to implement internal and executive communications projects, events and activities that keep employees informed and engaged, and help position Shedd as an established leader in animal care, conservation, education and research.  
 
Learning Goals: 

• Develop stronger writing and editing skills and a stronger written portfolio while thinking more critically about methods and best practices for internal storytelling and communications.  
• Utilize creative solutions to support Shedd’s leadership and research initiatives. 
• Understand how the development of key internal communications assets supports external goals and outreach.  

Responsibilities & Projects: 

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values 
• Develop a deep understanding of Shedd Aquarium work across animal wellbeing, conservation, environmental education, public engagement and more.   
• Willingness to interact with internal audiences virtually or in-person. Updates Assistant Director of Communications accordingly.   
• Help shape and implement an internal communications strategy for Shedd Aquarium.  
• Assist with ideation and drafting of articles for internal newsletter.  
• Assist with internal and executive communications projects, including quarterly all-staff Town Halls, staff programming, etc.
• Ideate on staff engagement and activation opportunities in support of Shedd’s Centennial Commitment strategic plan.   
• Support the Assistant Director of Communications in staff and leadership visibility and elevation opportunities that demonstrate Shedd’s expertise and relevance.   
• Coordinate visual assets with Shedd’s media team.  
• Other projects as assigned 

Qualifications: 

Fields of Interest: Communications, public relations, journalism 
 
Skills/Characteristics: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.  
• Baseline Knowledge of AP Style.  
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently and meet deadlines.  
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.  
• Professional work ethic and demeanor are imperative.  
• Must be at least 18 years old at time of application.
• Have a high school diploma or GED at time of application. 

Schedule: 

• This internship will run from 6/1/26-8/21/26.
  • The first day of the internship will be a full day orientation from 9am-5pm. This is required, even if you will not normally be scheduled on Mondays.
• We anticipate this position will be scheduled for 24 hours per week during this time period, pending business needs and individual performance.
  • Preferred schedule: Flexible within normal business hours, weekdays between 9am and 5pm.  Onsite at least one day per week.
  • Set schedule based on intern availability and host department needs. 

Reasonable Accommodations:
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at internship@sheddaquarium.org.
 
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, Veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.