Temporary Ecology Field Research Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 Urban Wildlife Institute Research intern will gain valuable virtual and hands-on experience by assisting the Urban Wildlife Institute with several field research projects both on the zoo grounds and in the Greater Chicago area. This position will also conduct fieldwork in the Greater Chicago area (transportation provided) on projects related to biodiversity monitoring using cameras and acoustic recorders for birds and bats, human-wildlife interactions using surveys, as well as projects related to One Health, such as rat habitat monitoring. The intern will enter the data associated with these projects and maintain related research equipment. Some virtual work will be likely, and these projects may include tagging and analyzing images from wildlife cameras, uploading and entering field-collected data, analyzing acoustic recordings for birds and bats, as well as literature searches. The intern will have an opportunity to design and execute a unique project of interest, under the guidance of UWI staff. In addition to scientific monitoring, you will gain experience communicating the importance of urban nature by interacting with learners of various ages, backgrounds and knowledge levels, and will gain experience training other interns and volunteers. The intern should be self-motivated, adaptable, and enthusiastic to work both in the field and in front of a computer, and some independent, virtual work is expected.

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. This is a year-long, full-time paid position that begins in June 2026. Applications will be reviewed beginning May 5, and will continue until the position is filled. Housing is not provided. Applicants should submit a cover letter and CV or resume.

DURATION: July 2026-May 2027; full time (35hrs/wk)

Learning Objectives

The intern will learn:

• about urban wildlife ecology and gain experience with field techniques for studying wildlife;
• how to manage data, interpret collected data, and design and conduct a scientific study;
• how to communicate science in person and through written communication.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist with field research projects in the greater Chicago area, including wildlife monitoring using trail cameras and acoustic recorders, human-wildlife interaction research, and rat trapping and habitat surveys;
• Assist with virtual projects, including trail camera photo review, data management, literature searches, and written scientific communication (e.g., data summaries or blog posts);
• Assist with on-grounds research projects including Black-crowned Night Heron colony monitoring, bird surveys, bat surveys, and other projects as needed;
• Perform data entry with high attention to detail and enthusiasm;
• Test, inventory, and prepare field equipment & supplies;
• Local travel in Chicago for field projects (transportation provided); comfortable working accompanied in city alleys and urban green spaces;
• Serve as a credible source of information about our research;
• Complete a personal project that is mutually agreed upon by the intern and supervisor.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with training of other interns and volunteers when appropriate;
• Attend Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Urban Wildlife Institute-related activities as necessary;
• Participate in professional development and networking activities as part of the zoo intern program;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• The applicant should demonstrate a passion for and understanding of ecology and scientific research;
• Possess some expertise in field techniques for wildlife research;
• Possess strong computer, organizational, and interpersonal skills (written and spoken);
• Willingness to work outside in challenging field conditions (i.e., summer and winter); willingness to work early morning hours as necessary;
• 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.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree (completed within two years), preferably in 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)
  

Preferred Experience

We prefer applicants that:

• Have conducted or assisted with wildlife ecological studies, including use of remote-triggered cameras and acoustic recorders, or some related fieldwork experience;
• Are familiar with some software programs, including program R, program MARK, ArcGIS/QGIS, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access;
• Possess knowledge of Illinois fauna, especially birds and mammals.

 OUR COMMITMENT

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to fostering a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, 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
• Discounts on event tickets (including free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff social events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions focused on the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related topics
• A unique work environment featuring green spaces and regular opportunities to engage with wildlife

Salary: $18.00/hr