What are the responsibilities and job description for the Seasonal Community Science Coordinator, Urban Wildlife Institution position at Lincoln Park Zoological Society?
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 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 2025.
Applications will be reviewed beginning February 17, 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;
- 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
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Educational Requirements
Additional Requirements
Preferred Experience
We prefer applicants that :
DURATION : April 2025-September 2025; 6-months, full time (35hrs / wk)
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. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and others who identify as nonwhite, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA community, and those with lived experience with racism and / or misogynoir are encouraged to apply.
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) :
Hourly Wage : $24.72 / hr
Salary : $25
