Restoration Intern

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science‑based, community‑driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. Position Summary Restoration Interns play a critical role in the management and restoration of Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) and Chicago Park District (CPD) Natural Areas. Under the direction of Audubon's Stewardship Program Associate, the Interns will help restore ecological health and integrity of prairie, savanna, woodland, wetland, and hemimarsh habitats by removing invasive species at various preserves and natural areas in Cook County. This internship provides experience in natural‑area management and land stewardship, and contributes to the growing conservation network in the Chicago area. It is a full‑time, 40‑hour per week, Monday–Friday position (6:30am–3pm) from June through December, with flexible scheduling for field work that can change daily to hourly. Preferred but not required is reliable transportation to work sites. Interns will report to the Stewardship Program Associate; preference will be given to those who commit to the full length of the program. Commitment & Compensation • Length of internship: Six months (June1–December18,2026)

• Location: On‑site at Audubon Great Lakes (200W Madison St., Suite300, Chicago, IL60606) but traveling to multiple FPCC and CPD sites
• Hours: 40 per week, Monday–Friday, 6:30am‑3:00pm (subject to change)
• Compensation: $19.00 per hour with mileage reimbursement and provision of uniforms, work vests, and PPE
• Additional benefits: certifications, licenses, conferences, and field seminars

Intern Responsibilities and Learning Objectives Participate in ecological restoration management under the guidance of the Audubon Great Lakes Engagement Team Brush and weed management using backpack herbicide sprayers, brushcutters, chainsaws, and hand tools Apply restoration techniques such as plant identification, native plug planting, seed collection, processing, dispersal, and, when applicable, controlled brushpile or prescribed burns Obtain an Illinois Herbicide Applicator License within the first two weeks and pursue certifications in Chainsaw, Brushcutter, Group Leadership, Managing Invasives, and other ecology‑related field courses during the internship Work collaboratively with Audubon crews, partner restoration staff, volunteers, and conservation partners in the region Maintain professional interaction with the public and volunteers during on‑site work Internship Benefits Develop leadership and team‑building skills through professional job‑skill training Gain experience in effective collaboration with diverse restoration partners Attend educational trainings and events for exposure to conservation professionals and future job placement Professional and appropriate interaction with members of the public and volunteers carrying out work and visiting preserves and natural areas Qualifications and Experience Preferably working toward a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resources management, or related field (not required); an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered Must be 18years or older Strong interest in conservation and/or working outdoors Willingness to work an extremely flexible schedule that can change daily to hourly Access to a car or other means of transportation to travel to work sites (preferred) Ability to work in inclement weather conditions, withstanding extreme temperatures, heavy mosquito presence, and difficult terrain Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team and perform repetitive tasks with attention to detail Capability to study for and pass the Illinois Herbicide Applicator Exams within the first two weeks of hire Experience with, or ability to quickly learn, safe usage of basic maintenance tools including hand tools, brushcutters, and chainsaws Ability to maneuver heavy objects up to 50–75lbs for extended periods of time Ability to follow instructions and use independent judgment in decisions, as needed Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. Accessibility Statement The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications. #J-18808-Ljbffr National Audubon Society, Inc.