Naturalist Interns help to operate and maintain a variety of nature centers, including:

• Mountain Discovery Center at Walking Mountains in Avon
• Vail Nature Center in Vail’s Ford Park
• Nature Discovery Center atop Vail Mountain
• US Forest Service Visitor Information Services in Minturn

Additionally, Naturalists plan and present public programs based out of these and several other partner locations. Naturalists gain experience with a large variety of environmental education programming throughout the Eagle Valley, such as nature walks, campfire talks, early childhood programs, and summer camp activities.

Internship Duration: May 20-September 1, 2020 and May 20-October 26, 2020 (with the opportunity for winter re-hire)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in on-site, paid training prior to beginning internship responsibilities
• Research, plan and facilitate lesson plans for all assigned programs
• Provide visitors and programs participants with positive, educational experiences
• Operate a variety of nature centers, including building maintenance, trail maintenance, program registration, gift shop sales, and visitor services
• Work with other Naturalist Interns and Walking Mountains Science Center staff to complete assigned projects that further the organization’s mission

Qualifications:

• At least three years of education towards a BA/BS degree in natural science, education, or an environmentally-related field;
• Enthusiasm for educating others about the natural environment and sustainability while expanding personal knowledge of Rocky Mountain ecology;
• Experience with formal or informal education of children and/or adults;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Current First Aid and CPR certifications;
• Able to work flexible hours (including evenings and weekends);
• Able to hike up to 3 miles, work outdoors in all weather conditions, and lift up to 50 pounds;
• Positive, self-motivated, organized, and creative individual who can work independently and as part of a team of up to 15 people;
• Walking Mountains Science Center hires friendly, energetic and professional people;
• Desired: Specialized knowledge or interest in fly-fishing, the creative arts, Spanish-speaking, or a natural science field (botany, ornithology, etc.).