Performing Arts Education Intern

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee's Arts Education Department is pleased to provide a paid internship opportunity as part of our summer education (Zoo Camp) programs. This internship runs from the beginning of June until mid-August. Interns hired will help educate children ages 6-12 about science, animals, and conservation in our summer Zoo Camps.

Successful candidates will develop child management techniques, interactive teaching strategies, and are directly mentored and extensively trained through a self-reflective, experiential training program. This role works closely with an experienced team of educators and volunteers. The position may also receive guidance and training from the Programs Operations Manager.

Internship positions are open to any major of study for those passionate about music, theater, education, conservation, wildlife, natural resources, and/or social sciences (e.g., informal or formal education, conservation, zoology, biological sciences, forestry, human dimensions, psychology, etc.)

This program does not offer direct animal handling or veterinary experience and does not provide housing.

For a complete application and consideration for a position, be sure to include a resume and cover letter. Phone screenings and interviews will begin in late January. If you have any additional questions, please email Kim Giddens ([email protected]).

Rate of Pay: $12.35

Hours: 40 hours/week for 11 weeks (June 4 – mid to late August)

INTERNSHIP LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Practice time management and prioritization skills by balancing day-to-day responsibilities with ongoing assignments.
• Practice giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Learn how to communicate professionally with supervisors and mentors in the workplace.
• Learn how to complete a professional self-evaluation.
• Gain experience with mentoring and supervision, including training, goal setting, and evaluation.
• Gain exposure to multiple zoo and arts education career paths through career talks
• Learn how to present scientific and arts content in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.
• Learn and employ strong child management and interpersonal skills to connect to and relate with a diverse group of participants, family members, and volunteers.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as Arts Education intern for Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s summer education programs.
• Study and learn curricula, prepare classroom materials, and set-up and clean classroom spaces.
• Assist education instructors in classroom educational activities.
• Lead fun, safe and interactive Zoo tours daily.
• Implement policies and procedures to ensure a safe and engaging Zoo education experience for participants.
• Mentor and evaluate High School volunteers with supervision by the High School Coordinator.
• Act with integrity and professionalism in the workplace at all times, and in representation of ZSM on Zoo grounds.
• Complete self-evaluation and reflection assignments, along with goal setting, following timeline set by Teaching Artist (in collaboration with the Associate Director of Programs Operations).
• Assist with Conservation Education Department light housekeeping.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Open to any major of study for those passionate about music, theater, education, conservation, wildlife, natural resources, and/or social sciences (e.g., informal or formal education, conservation, zoology, biological sciences, forestry, human dimensions, psychology, etc.)
• Must be First Aid/CPR/AED certified or be willing and able to become certified. Reimbursement is available for qualifying programs.
• Must be able to attend mandatory trainings Thursday June 4th – Saturday, June 6th, and Tuesday, June 9th – Friday, June 12th. Returning interns from prior years will also be required to attend Wednesday, June 3rd.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee believes diversity, equity, access, and inclusion (DEAI) are the hallmarks of a robust, vibrant community and have adopted DEAI as foundational to our organizations’ priorities and values. A successful candidate will embrace these values and incorporate a similar commitment within their scope of work to foster an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity, which is demonstrated through actions and words.

The Society provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in all its services. If you need accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources department at [email protected].