The International Crane Foundation is a leader in the conservation of the world’s 15 crane species and is dedicated to providing experience, knowledge and inspiration to involve people in resolving threats to cranes and the ecosystems vital to their long-term survival. Although the International Crane Foundation has projects worldwide, the headquarters is located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, one hour north of Madison. In 2019, the Foundation embarked on a 10 million dollar site expansion and renovation. Improvements include a new visitor center and ten updated crane exhibits. The Foundation is currently closed to the public due to site renovations and will be re-opening in the spring of 2021. The International Crane Foundation exhibits the only collection in the world of all 15 species of crane.

Description:
Conservation Education Naturalist Interns will gain valuable hands-on experience working with the Conservation Education Department and will:

• Develop and lead daily interpretive tours for visiting schools, community organizations, private groups and the general public.
• Interact and assist with the sale of admission tickets, gift shop merchandise, annual memberships and overall site orientation on a daily basis.
• Assist in the completion of one or several projects related to the goals, work plan and objectives of the Conservation Education Department (e.g., help design and develop self-guided written or audio media; write, film and edit short films about the Foundation’s work; create, test and evaluate interpretive programs; design interpretive wayside panels; assist in managing the Foundation’s volunteer program; organize and implement on-site events; or research policy-related projects and initiatives, etc.)
• Plan, organize, market and execute one or more onsite events (Mother’s Day, Whooping Crane Day, Cranes of the World Festival, Good Neighbor Day).
• Provide outreach programs for local schools, civic groups, housing facilities, parks and festivals.
• Conduct virtual outreach programming for groups that cannot visit our site.
• Conduct duties associated with opening/closing the visitor center, exhibits and gift shop on a daily basis.
• Achieve experience in planning, designing and evaluating interpretive programs and written materials.
• Learn about International Crane Foundation project initiatives related to crane ecology, behavior, and husbandry; field conservation and ecology; and ecosystem restoration techniques and processes.
• Have the opportunity to volunteer with other departments and participate in job shadow experiences at the Foundation.
• Meet and work with a variety of international colleagues and professional staff.

The International Crane Foundation achieves our mission by working with individuals, teams and communities in more than 50 countries. The ability to form cooperative relationships with people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds requires the Foundation to seek and engage with staff, volunteers and associates who value and honor these relationships. The International Crane Foundation recruits individuals who have a true passion for our mission, regardless of race, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical and mental abilities, and religious choice. Each person’s life experiences, backgrounds, thoughts and ideas make us stronger.

Qualifications:
Two years of college or equivalent practical experience required; B.A. or B.S. or Associate degree in a relevant program preferred. Students from all disciplines are welcome to apply; however, studies relating to wildlife conservation, education or biology are preferred. The applicant should have exceptional customer service, proficient public speaking skills and a strong desire to teach diverse audiences in a non-formal setting. Candidates should demonstrate an interest/background in interpretation, environmental education, conservation biology, ornithology, education, digital marketing, graphic design, film/documentary production and other related fields. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license.