Intern (Natural Areas) - Seasonal

Chicago Park District

Posted about 13 hours ago

Internship

Chicago, Illinois

In Person

Smart Summary

The intern will perform ecological monitoring, natural areas assessment, and data collection to support organizational operations. Responsibilities include analyzing geospatial information, assessing vegetation establishment, and generating reports on findings.

Seeking an intern to assist with ecological monitoring, data collection, and natural areas assessment. Requires a high school diploma and one year of field experience in ecological monitoring or vegetation surveys. Preferred qualifications include a bachelor's degree in biology, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Must Have Skills for ATS

Ecological monitoring

Natural areas assessment

Data collection

Data entry

ArcGIS Field Maps

ArcGIS Online

QGIS

Plant identification

Pollinator identification

Ecological field techniques

Restoration activities

Geospatial analysis

Report generation

Communication

Job Description

Title:   Intern – Natural Areas (S)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:  Under direct supervision, performs ecological monitoring, natural areas assessment, and data collection and entry in support of the operation of an organizational unit on a temporary basis. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

  • Assist in the collection, entry, and reporting of data for research/monitoring projects.
  • Collect and analyze geospatial information using tools such as ArcGIS Field Maps, ArcGIS Online, and/or QGIS. 
  • Assess native seed and plug, shrub, and tree establishment and survivorship.  
  • Perform routine data entry tasks using established mainframe systems. 
  • Generate records and reports of inspection visits and findings. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience:
High school diploma. One year of field experience performing ecological monitoring activities, vegetation surveys, or other comparable experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Experience in plant and pollinator identification. 
  • Knowledge of ecological field techniques and restoration activities.  
  • Ability to work in all types of weather conditions and perform physically demanding field work, including walking over uneven terrain, carrying equipment, and bending/kneeling.  
  • Ability to organize and maintain records manually or using personal computer. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with park employees and the public. 
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, Environmental Science, or an appropriate related field.

Career Service                                                               EEO: Administrative Support                                                                                       FLSA: Non-Exempt
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Approved: 4/14/2025

RATE OF PAY: $22.66 per hour
Budgeted: 3 positions: 800 hours, 360 hours, and 960 hours

Chicago Park District

The Chicago Park District owns more than 8,700 acres of green space, making it the largest municipal park manager in the nation. The Chicago Park District’s 597 parks offer thousands of sports and physical activities as well as cultural and environmental programs for youth, adults, and seniors. The Chicago Park District is also responsible for 26 indoor pools, 51 outdoor pools, and 26 miles of lakefront including 23 swimming beaches plus one inland beach. From canoeing to batting cages to arts and crafts, there is never a shortage of activities to participate in Chicago’s parks. The Chicago Park District oversees the Garfield Park and Lincoln Park conservatories, two tropical paradises within the city that house thousands of rare and exotic plants. Popular attractions that fall under the management of the Chicago Park District include the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain. Proudly referred to as Chicago's front yard, Grant Park is among the city's loveliest and most prominent parks. Ten world-class museums are located on Chicago Park District property. On October 14, 2014 the Chicago Park District received the 2014 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. This award is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The Chicago Park District's mission is: - To enhance the quality of life in Chicago by becoming the leading provider of recreation and leisure opportunities - To provide safe, inviting and beautifully maintained parks and facilities - To create a customer-focused and responsive park system

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