Intern - Summer Youth Employment Program

Intern Summer Youth Employment Program

General Description

The Intern - Summer Youth Employment Program will work directly under the supervision of the Education Specialist from June 23 to August 23, 2026. Starting in June, they will work as part of our Summer Youth Employment Program. The intern will learn about careers in outdoor recreation and natural resources with a focus on careers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The intern will participate in job readiness training and workshops. Additionally, the intern will be granted opportunities to participate in outdoor recreation. The Environmental Stewardship Intern will support, both publicly and privately, the principles of the Detroit Zoological Society. This job description is by no means all-inclusive. Due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership, it may be subject to change during a performance period. This document will be reviewed on a continual basis and modified as needed.

Principle Duties & Responsibilities

• Report to the Belle Isle Nature Center or to the Detroit Zoo for duties
• Attend and participate in meetings, scheduled on and off-site workshops, and field trips
• Attend educational enrichment classes provided for the interns
• Interact with diverse audiences both orally and in writing
• Collaborate with peers and staff on environmental conservation projects
• Operate and utilize outdoor equipment and work tools
• Document weekly experiences and create an end-of-program presentation
• Execute and complete the chosen summer project
• Must be available for the entire internship, June 24 August 15
• Other duties as assigned by the program coordinators

Requirements

• Must reside in Detroit (if in college, you must have a permanent address in Detroit)
• Must be between the ages of 16-19. All interns who are 16-17 years old must be able to obtain a valid work permit before the start of the program.
• Must be a high school or college student in good standing
• Must qualify for free or reduced lunch

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Must be prompt and dependable
• Must be poised, mature, and possess a positive attitude while being flexible
• Ability to follow instructions
• Must be able to perform routine tasks without being prompted
• Must be professional, courteous, and respectful
• Must be able to work well with children and adults
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to work with the public and office personnel

Working Conditions

Work is conducted both inside and outside and may include work in adverse weather with the outside environment, heights, and exposures. The position involves exposure to all types of weather, air conditioning, and heating systems. Interns may be required to walk long distances around Belle Isle State Park and other locations. The regular work schedule may include weekends and holidays.

Physical Requirements

Physical work is part of the job and includes walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, and bending for long periods of time; must be able to lift at least 20 pounds. The individual must have the ability to perform essential functions of the job satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.