Seasonal Community Science Coordinator, Urban Wildlife Institute

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.

General Summary

The Community Science Coordinator will work closely with the Assistant Director to manage the BatTracker Community Science program. The BatTracker program engages volunteers to contribute to conservation research by actively recording bat echolocation calls in Chicago’s green spaces at dusk. The Community Science Coordinator will play an integral role in advancing the goals of this project: 1) coordinate with existing volunteers and identify new partnerships to expand bat data collection into more communities, 2) oversee data collection on available habitat (plants, trees, artificial light) at a subset of sites 3) mentor teens as part of a paid summer research internship in collaboration with the zoo’s Learning department, 4) assist with acoustic and habitat data collection and management. This position will provide varied experience and skills including intern and volunteer management, program interpretation and delivery, field data collection, and project management with large datasets.

This position requires accessing areas that are off trail on uneven terrain, through sometimes thick vegetation, and being outdoors in all weather conditions. Must be able to transport equipment of up to 10 lbs from the vehicle to field site at times off pathways and over uneven terrain. Must be willing to work occasional evenings and weekend days. This is a six-month, full-time paid position from April – September 2026. Applications will be reviewed beginning February 18, and will continue until the position is filled. Housing is not provided. Applicants should submit a cover letter and CV or resume.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist with identifying new partnerships to expand community science initiatives that engage diverse communities about bat ecology and research;


• Train volunteers on data collection protocols and program interpretation;


• Plan and provide meaningful and memorable educational programs (i.e., bat walks at night, activation events at parks) to learners of various ages, backgrounds and knowledge levels;


• Mentor interns and teens in field research techniques and development of short-term, zoo-based research projects in collaboration with the zoo’s Learning Department;


• Collect data on bats and their habitat;

• Upload, organize, and clean data with high attention to detail;


• Prepare summaries and reports to volunteers and landowners;


• Order, inventory, prepare, and trouble-shoot field equipment & supplies;


• Travel locally in Chicago for fieldwork and community events (transportation provided);


• Comfortable working accompanied in urban green spaces, sometimes at dusk;


• Serve as a credible source of information about bat ecology and our research;

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with field work related to other Urban Wildlife Institute projects as needed;


• Attend Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Urban Wildlife Institute-related activities as necessary;


• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• The applicant should demonstrate a passion for and understanding of ecology and scientific research;


• Possess some informal or formal education experience;


• Have some knowledge of field techniques for wildlife research;


• Possess strong computer, organizational, and interpersonal skills (written and spoken);


• Able to interact positively and enthusiastically with the public about our research when appropriate; ability to represent Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times;


• Works well in a team environment as well as independently;


• Self-motivated to stay on task when working virtually;


• Experience with diverse backgrounds and multicultural environments;


• Maintain a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibilities;


• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be comfortable driving in Chicago (zoo vehicle will be provided).


• Willingness to work some evenings and occasional weekend days.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (in progress or completed within two years), preferably in environmental education, biology, ecology, natural resources, or related field.

Additional Requirements

• Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, defined as two-weeks after second vaccination of a two-dose vaccine series (Pfizer or Moderna) or two-weeks after a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)

DURATION: April 2026-September 2026; 6-months, full time (35hrs/wk) 

Preferred Experience

We prefer applicants that:

• Are familiar with some software programs, including program Microsoft Excel, Program R, Google Earth, or ArcGIS/QGIS;


• Have some experience coordinating volunteers;


• Possess knowledge of Illinois fauna, especially birds and bats;


• Have some plant and tree identification skills.

OUR PROMISE

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people.  For Wildlife. For All.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS

In addition to such standard benefits ( Blue Cross Blue Shield)  as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions


• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach


• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo


• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects


• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)


• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Salary: $26.23/hr.