Public Relations Intern | Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Posted on Nov 19, 2025
Type: Internship
This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago by providing support for a variety of marketing areas including outreach, special events, and public relations. Successful interns will learn how to develop campaign schedules, plan for large events, deliver information effectively to the public, gain experience working with public media, and practicing professional interpersonal communication skills.
- Conduct research related to marketing channels and targeted growth areas (audience research, collection of demographic data, development of park district, newcomers, and other identified segments for marketing purposes)
- Professionally represent the Brookfield Zoo Chicago at events held throughout the Chicagoland Metropolitan area and ensuring a clean and branded appearance.
- Maintain a schedule of events both onsite and in the community.
- Responsible for learning and delivering a variety of information, materials, and activities related to the zoo and animals.
- Assist with writing press releases and fact sheets as needed; Assist with writing media alerts and distributing to media as well as follow up and contacting media for events; Assist in distribution of news releases and making follow up calls when appropriate.
- Assist in generating and pitching zoo stories as requested. This includes writing a news release/pitch letter, targeting media, and pitching the story.
- Assist in filling media requests for interviews, releases, images, b-roll footage, etc.
- In a limited capacity, provide production, planning, administrative, research, creative, and logistical support for all special events initiatives such as Boo! At the Zoo, Holiday Magic, Summer Nights Concert Series, and more.
Requirements
- Minimum one year of college at an accredited institution with minimum G.P.A. 2.5/4.0, majoring in early marketing, communication, education, theater, journalism, or have equivalent life experience in the events management or recreational tourism field.
- Minimum 18 years of age.
- Possess excellent writing skills; be prepared to provide writing samples upon request. Good interpersonal, communications, and organizational skills;
- General capabilities include strong communication skills to interact with public and strong organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent customer service, strong verbal communication skills, teamwork, flexibility, and the ability to be a strong advocate of Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Candidates must be comfortable with public appearances involving personal interaction.
- A valid driver's license.
- All interns are required to complete either a final project or daily journal as part of their experience.
- Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
Location
3300 Golf Rd.
Brookfield, IL 60513
How to apply
We are currently accepting applications for our summer term, which runs for about 12 weeks beginning around Memorial Day. Applications must be submitted by February 2, 2026. More information is available at brookfieldzoo.org/interns.