Benefits for 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 camp begins
• Learn about Nantucket’s diverse ecosystems and their inhabitants including the 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 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 camp 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
• 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
• Lead public or private education programs including snorkeling, nature art, and more
• Help in the office to prepare for the next week of camp
• Attend all required intern and housing meetings
• 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

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. They should be enthusiastic, flexible, willing to work long hours (possible nights and/or weekends), and be able to live and work well with others. They 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 typically included in the lifeguard course and we are willing to reimburse you for up to $100 for that training.

Preference will be given to applicants that:

• Are at least 21 years of age
• Have naturalist skills and/or experience as an environmental educator
• Have worked with children of all ages
• Have experience writing lesson plans
• Are able to commit for the entire summer: May 29th – August 20th
• Possess a current CPR, first aid, and lifeguard certification or be willing to become certified prior to camp
• Are fun, flexible, and have a great sense of humor
• Have a current driver’s license