Animal Welfare Intern

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. Visit us at lpzoo.org. 

General Summary

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Animal Welfare Science Program is seeking a motivated, enthusiastic intern to support data collection efforts at the zoo.  This internship will involve conducting behavior observations of Asian small-clawed otters as part of a multi-institutional research study being led by Lincoln Park Zoo and supported by a grant from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  The intern will primarily be reviewing video recordings of otters recorded at zoos and aquariums around the USA to score animal behavior data. In addition, the intern will assist with in-person behavior observations at Lincoln Park Zoo using the ZooMonitor app and support data analysis.

This paid internship position is scheduled to start September 1^st and will be 4.5 months in duration.  The position will be in-person only and part-time (20 hours per week, weekdays only). Remote work and weekend availability cannot be accommodated for this internship.

Essential Job Function

• Conduct computer-based animal behavior observations from pre-recorded videos


• Assist with in-person animal behavior observations using the ZooMonitor app


• Review training materials and pass inter-observer reliability tests


• Create basic, summary data visualizations


• Regularly communicate progress with the Primary Investigator

Learning Objectives

• Learn scientific methods for observing animal behavior


• Gain in-depth knowledge of Asian small-clawed otter behavior


• Become proficient using software tools (e.g., ZooMonitor app) to record behavior


• Develop skills in analyzing animal behavior data

Additional Responsibilities

• May assist with other on-grounds behavior research


• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Possess strong detail-oriented and critical-thinking skills


• Possess strong computer, organizational (project management), and communication skills (written and spoken)


• Ability to work independently, including managing time and prioritizing tasks efficiently


• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel


• Previous experience with animal behavior research is preferred

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred but will consider currently enrolled Junior or Senior-level students


• Preferred major in Biology, Animal Behavior, Psychology, Zoology or other related field

Our Commitment

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

• 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


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

Salary: $17.00/hr