Environmental Education Summer Intern

Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center is hiring an Environmental Education Summer Intern for on-site work in Sandstone, MN. The intern will assist with summer camps for K-2nd graders and learn about environmental education methods while gaining experience in outdoor activities. The position requires living on-site, a commitment from June to August 2023, and an interest in working with diverse learners. Benefits include room, board, and a stipend.
Learn the basics of what environmental education is and have fun assisting with our summer camps! We primarily have day camps for k-2nd graders, but have a handful of other camps for older kids as well.

Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit residential learning center near Sandstone, MN that provides outdoor educational opportunities to diverse audiences in an intimate setting. Gain experience in current environmental education methods, as well as knowledge of Minnesota’s unique biomes and natural history through direct mentorship, and on-the-job learning. Our organization is committed to making the outdoors accessible to everyone with learner-centered, nature-focused programming that is responsive to all visitors. This commitment has not waivered through the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to our dynamic team’s creativity and the guidance of the Center for Disease Control. We hope you can join us and learn what it takes to be an outstanding environmental educator!

Qualifications:

Seeking a college degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience/training
18 years of age or older at the time of employment
Ability to commit from June 2023 - August 2023, and live on site in communal housing
Is COVID-19 vaccinated or is willing to become vaccinated
Interest or experience in working with learners of all ages; particularly elementary and middle school age
Interest in outdoor activities including, but not limited to: camping, canoeing, backpacking, climbing, hiking, etc.
Experience with, and enthusiasm for, summer youth camps and community programming
Experience in working with or teaching members of communities that have traditionally underserved by the environmental education field.
Interest and enthusiasm for working with our amphibian and reptile ambassadors
Must be excited to learn and try new things, and willing to take initiative to support our programs and staff.
Ability to lift heavy equipment, such as a canoe, hike long distances, and work outside in all weather conditions
Ability to lead and participate in our climbing wall and high ropes course (max height: 40 ft.)
First Aid and CPR certification is a plus!

Responsibilities:

Teach ecology, wildlife, adventure, and cultural classes to large and small groups of all ages, including evening and weekend programming
Lead Summer Camp programming and free-time activities
Act as overnight counselor for residential camps (1 week long camp and 1 three-day camp)
Attend weekly staff meetings and regular training throughout the summer
Complete any requirements as directed by your college institution
Complete other self-directed projects, or projects/tasks as assigned

Benefits:

Work outside in a beautiful setting: 780 acres with coniferous and mixed hardwood forest, creek, prairie, and wetland areas, as well as a lake with a beach adjacent to the staff house
Access to recreation equipment for use in free time
$280/month stipend, room & board
Private room in on-site Staff House, and meals during the work week/when groups are present
Two days off per week
Opportunity to be considered for future employment in the fellowship program

How to apply:

Position Dates:

Dates are flexible due to your internship requirements

Anticipated start date begins June 19, 2023 and ends after August 11th, 2023.

There are 2 positions available. Applications will be considered upon submission

To apply, please send your cover letter, resume, and three references to:

Ashley Bozman, Fellowship Coordinator, Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center
bozman@ospreywilds.org | (320) 245-2648 ext. 111 | www.ospreywilds.org