Public Horticulture Intern
Employment type: Full-Time
Application Due Date: May 25, 2025
LINCOLN PARK ZOO
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Public Horticulture Intern
DEPARTMENT: Animal Care and Horticulture
REPORTS TO: Director of Horticulture
STATUS:
JOB CODE:
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
The department of Animal Care and Horticulture is an integrated team that cares for the animals
and plants that live at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Public Horticulture Intern is a full-time paid position up to 460 hours. The intern will work
with the Director of Horticulture and Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture Programs to
build a general knowledge of public horticulture, studying and learning plants that thrive in the
Chicago area, as well as in a conservatory setting, and utilizing the resources provided by the zoo
to further develop themselves professionally. They will also get the unique opportunity to work in
a public garden, botanic garden, and arboretum at a zoo. The internship will be project-based,
depending on the interest of the candidate, and will conclude with a presentation on their project.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
• Assist in plant inventories, data validation, and data input into the plant records database.
• Assist in the manufacturing and installation of accession and interpretive labels in the zoo
gardens.
• Frequently work independently and in groups with other zoo staff and volunteers.
• Assist in the loading, unloading, and transportation of plants, garden equipment and
materials.
• Participate in garden maintenance, including grooming, weeding, watering, mowing, and
mulching.
• Participate in the installation of display plants and permanent collections plants under the
guidance of Director of Horticulture and/or Manager of Plant Records and Horticulture
Programs.
• Maintain inventory, cleanliness, and function of daily use tools and supplies. Support the
Assistant Manager of Horticulture Operations in general tool maintenance and organization.
• Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of their working environment for those in and
surrounding the work site.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
• Build a foundation of understanding for the curation and management of a public garden.
• Gain experience in plant identification, plant records, data management, and horticulture
maintenance.
• Develop written and oral presentation skills.
• Visit other local public gardens to gain a better understanding of the field of public
horticulture.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
• May be asked to represent the zoo at internal and external functions, including but not limited
to zoo donor tours, zoo special events and professional meetings and conferences.
• May use electric cart or hand truck to move supplies and debris.
• May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency.
• May be asked to participate in zoo horticulture-related programming.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
• Ability to identify or willingness to learn common ornamental and native landscape plants.
• Ability to communicate in verbal and written English.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions.
• Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees,
volunteers, zoo visitors and the general public.
• Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices helpful.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
High school degree or equivalent with an interest in studying horticulture, plant science, or a
related field.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to lift on an occasional basis up to 50 lbs. Ability to remain on feet for long periods of
time. Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach and climb. Ability to safely and effectively utilize
the program tools and equipment. Ability to move about on sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces.
Ability to work in all weather conditions. Ability to work on uneven terrain. No allergy to plants
or animals which may interfere with the ability to work. Accommodation can be made to
support variation in abilities.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
A valid Illinois driver’s license and maintenance of a good driving record is required.
Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule as assigned.
Proof of COVID vaccine.
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.
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