Benefits to Interns

Through this internship, Environmental Education (EE) Instructors will:

• Become skilled in writing and implementing science, environmental education, and adventure-based lesson plans
• Develop and improve collaboration skills through group planning and co-teaching
• Receive two full weeks of training before programs begin
• Learn about Nantucket’s diverse ecosystems including globally rare sandplain grasslands and coastal heathlands
• Have fun snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, exploring the island, and much more
• Have the opportunity to incorporate your own interests and hobbies into outdoor education lessons
• If interested, take part in early morning or late afternoon field research conducted by MMA including the American Burying Beetle reintroduction and monitoring project, barn owl surveys, snake surveys, and more
• Develop office skills while learning what it takes to manage and administer a program of this size
• Learn how to properly handle a variety of animals
• Take part in all MMA educational opportunities free-of-charge including open nights at the observatory, science lecture series, historical walks, night hikes, etc.
• Enjoy group activities for interns including cookouts, a night of ice skating, and a behind-the-scenes tour of a local farm.
• Build a resource binder of your lessons and activities to take with you at the end of the summer
• Attend the annual Red Tie Soiree, MMA’s biggest fundraiser of the summer
• Experience summer life on one of the most beautiful islands in the United States and
• Develop friendships that will last a lifetime.

Responsibilities and Tasks

• Work with a co-teacher and the Director of Education to plan and write unique weekly lessons for children ages 3.5 – 16 years.
• Design and make any needed educational props to go along with your lessons
• As part of the Discovery Programs you will lead nature hikes, wetland studies, survival skill instruction, live animal programs, bird watching, orienteering, community service projects, games, art projects, insect collecting, and more
• Maintain all educational supplies and equipment by washing and putting away after use
• Inform Director of Education when supplies are needed at least 1 week in advance
• Possibly lead public or private education programs including snorkeling, nature art, and more
• Help in the office to prepare for the next week
• Attend all required intern and housing meetings
• Participate in end of summer cleaning day (Saturday)
• Additional responsibilities may include assisting with special events, helping in the museum or aquarium, leading birthday parties, and other facets of the Association’s day-to-day operations.  Although you will not be working this everyday, we request all interns keep their weekday schedule open from 8 am to 6 pm to get the full internship experience and to ensure you will be able to attend any required emergency meetings.  Also, lesson planning time is on Mondays and Tuesdays evenings but, timing is flexible and up to the co-teachers to decide.

Key Requirements and Qualifications
Applicants must be at least 19 years old to be considered for the position. Ideal candidates must be confident in leading groups (especially of children), initiating activities, working independently, and team-teaching. You should be enthusiastic, flexible, willing to work long hours (possible nights and/or weekends) with a positive attitude, and be able to live and work well with others. You must, also, feel comfortable in and around ocean and water environments. We welcome applicants that are comfortable with all ages as well as applicants that excel in certain age groups. All applicants must be lifeguard, cpr, and first aid certified or willing to get their certifications prior to camp beginning.  CPR and first aid is included in the lifeguard course and we are willing to reimburse you a portion of your expenses.

Preference will be given to applicants that:

• Are at least 21 years of age
• Have completed or are currently enrolled in environmental education, natural sciences, or education courses and who are seeking a degree in any of those fields
• Have naturalist skills and/or experience as an environmental educator
• Have worked with children of all ages
• Are able to commit for the entire summer: May 27 – August 23
• Possess a current CPR, first aid, and lifeguard certification or are willing to become certified prior to camp
• Are fun, flexible, positive and have a great sense of humor
• Have a current driver’s license

Compensation

Option 1: May 27 – August 17 – $3000/summer
or
Option 2: May 27 – August 24 – $3000/summer plus $500 for extra week

Both options include dorm style housing.  If you live on campus, you will be expected to attend all dorm cleaning days as part of your housing agreement.

Most housing is located within walking distance to the town center and is a short bike ride to beautiful beaches, bike and hiking trails, museums, and other great locations.