EcoLeader Academy Intern Leader

GENERAL SUMMARY: Two summer interns are selected from previous involvement with EcoLeader Academy (ELA) or Youth Climate Advocacy Committee (YCAC) to serve as intern leaders. In addition to successfully completing all summer internship activities, the intern leaders are responsible for motivating the group and providing opportunities for the ELA participants to collaborate and get to know one another. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESSmile and maintain a positive attitude. Strive to create a Magical Guest experience.Interns will be expected to model excellent employee behavior, participation and leadership to the ELA participants. Intern leaders will be expected to support the objectives of the ELA program (see ELA application on Phipps' website).The intern leaders will be responsible for writing a welcome blog introducing themselves and the internship. This will post on the first Monday of the internship. Intern leaders will co-lead multiple group discussions and team building activities over the course of the internship. Intern leaders will meet with the High School Program Coordinator in multiple sessions to review summer expectations, develop icebreakers and team-building activities, write the introductory blog post, and support the Coordinator in creating weekly discussions on environmental topics.Intern leaders will help plan the Youth Garden Summit in collaboration with Grow Pittsburgh.Interns will also be responsible for communicating to the program coordinator any questions, concerns, or ideas that come up throughout the internship. This may include regularly staying after 4:30pm for a few minutes to discuss weekly topics, progress and/or concerns. Other duties as assigned.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIREDExcellent verbal communication skills.Willingness and ability to do physical work.Ability to interact with a variety of people.Sincere interest in sustainability, science education and working with guests of all ages.PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONSPhysical mobility: sitting, standing, walking, lifting/carrying objects up to 40 pounds, manual dexterity to operate keyboard.Mental effort: reading and writing.Strong work ethic in all areas of job performance.Ability to communicate and respond in person to the general public, staff and volunteers in a friendly manner.WORKING CONDITIONSWorking in the conservatory environment, as well as outside in all weather conditions: hot, humid, uneven floors, etc.Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification) Must be 16 years or older.Must have successfully completed ELA or YCAC previously.Revisions, additions or deletions to this job description may be made at any point.

Created: 2026-04-02