Audience Research and Evaluation Intern

This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in social science research (psychology, sociology, learning sciences, market research, educational research, or related fields). Key learnings and takeaways include growing awareness of the various phases of social science research and evaluation projects, building foundational social science research skills like survey design, data collection and analysis, and developing universal workplace skills like collaboration, meeting preparation and attendance, and communication. The Arboretum has staff from a range of academic disciplines, interns from different disciplines are encouraged to apply. 

Position Summary: 

Co-create an evaluation study for The Morton Arboretum, selecting among various possible project options in collaboration with the Head of Audience Research and Evaluation. Support the planning, implementation, and reporting of an evaluation study at The Morton Arboretum, including background/literature review, designing the methodological approach and developing study instruments (e.g., survey, observation checklist, etc.), collecting and analyzing data, and developing a final report.

Essential Functions: 

• Work collaboratively with Arboretum staff to develop an audience evaluation study that interests the intern and benefits the Arboretum.  

• Support the development of a methodological design and plan for data collection (e.g., which research methods will be used and how). 

• Assist in analyzing qualitative and quantitative data sets as determined by the study design. 

• Support the compiling of results into a report to share with Arboretum colleagues. 

• Attend and participate in any staff meetings/appointments as a temporary staff member.  

• Track progress on any objectives related to the intern’s academic institution, reporting to stakeholders from both parties. 

• Participate in and share experience feedback on any mentoring program attached to the Arboretum’s participation as an internship host site. 

• Demonstrate alignment with the Arboretum’s employee core values to be inclusive, take ownership, work together, keep learning, and make the Arboretum exceptional.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Current and continued enrollment in an Associate or Bachelor’s degree program through the internship placement. Familiarity or interest in social science research. Familiarity or experience with academic literature review, data collection, social science methods, and tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey) is helpful but not required. Eagerness to participate in an experiential learning opportunity set at a globally recognized leader in arboriculture science open to the public.

Success Factors: Strong critical thinking skills. Good communication skills as well as a positive customer service ethos for public-facing departments. Ability to work on more than one project concurrently.  

Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Physical Demands: Requires some physical activity: walking over varied terrain, bending, limited lifting and carrying (up to 20 lbs. assisted)Work Environment: Office environment and Arboretum grounds. Work is performed indoors and outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions.

The hiring rate for this position is $20/hour

The Morton Arboretum is a champion for diversity, supporting a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Arboretum is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status. To increase diversity in professions related to the public garden realm, we encourage applications from underrepresented minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans.  

The Morton Arboretum is dedicated to complying with our obligations as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All applicants are guaranteed equal consideration for employment.