Ecology Project International (EPI) is hiring interns to help deliver five- to nine-day field ecology courses for middle and high school students in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem for our summer courses (May through August). Our programs introduce students to real-world scientific study, engage them in conservation service projects, and raise their cultural and ecological awareness.

Field intern positions at EPI Yellowstone are opportunities for aspiring outdoor educators to learn, practice, and develop the fundamental skills necessary for a successful career in this field. Interns benefit from hands-on experience helping instructors deliver the best educational and field experience possible to EPI Yellowstone participants. Under the supervision of instructors and program staff, EPI interns develop their skills in group leadership, risk management, logistics, experiential teaching techniques, teamwork and group dynamics, and ecology field research.

Because of the diversity of Yellowstone participants (and of EPI staff), it is also important that field interns have the skills to address implicit bias and be culturally responsive in interactions with participants and co-workers. Interns are also empowered to identify ways in which we can enhance inclusivity in planning and implementing our program.

Each internship is an individualized progression, and interns will work with program staff and their instructor team to develop and advance their skills. Individual progressions will vary based on the prior experience and interest of each intern. Field interns, as a member of a three-person field team, also guide students in the preparation of all meals in the field, maintain EPI field equipment, transport students, lead students in leadership activities/games, and support field instructors in conducting all courses. As the internship progresses, interns will be called upon to deliver ecology and science curriculum to students. Upon demonstration of sufficient professional growth, summer interns will have the opportunity to interview for field instructor positions for the next program season (January through August 2022). 

This position is also empowered to identify new and creative ways to engage with co-workers to cultivate an environment true to our core values: making a positive difference in the world; bringing integrity, honesty, and excellence to all aspects of our work; appreciating the outdoors for education, inspiration and enjoyment; and having fun and thinking BIG!

COVID-19 Statement: EPI has prepared COVID-19 policies and practices that follow health department and CDC guidelines to reduce the risks of exposure and transmission of the virus during course activities. We can't eliminate this risk and it is possible that interns will be exposed to the virus from participants, partners, vendors, or the general public while performing course duties. Health insurance is not provided by EPI as part of the compensation for this position. Interns are asked to role model, lead, and enforce our field COVID-19 policies during a course and make appropriate decisions before, during, and after a course to reduce their exposure to the virus. Failure to comply with expectations may result in lost employment opportunities.

Intern Responsibilities:

• Actively participate in all EPI field courses, and support and reinforce the leadership provided by course instructors.
• Assist with lesson design and facilitation, as determined by the instructional team.
• Support field instructors in the preparation and closure of courses including completing paperwork, managing gear, or other course related tasks.
• Create and foster an inclusive group culture and learning environment among participants and co-workers.
• Drive EPI vehicles and tow a trailer to transport participating students and gear.
• Supervise group cooking and camping chores.
• Serve as a mentor for students and create an emotionally safe learning environment for all participants.
• Understand, model, monitor, and enforce EPI policies and protocols.
• Assist in managing logistical challenges and emergencies on course.
• Maintain clear & consistent communication with chaperones, participants, partners, instructors, and EPI staff.
• Deliver curriculum and lead designated activities effectively, utilizing EPI educational techniques.
• Support accurate field research data collection.
• Complete data entry of student and chaperone evaluation data.
• Maintain effective self-care during extended trips and throughout the length of the season
• Give and receive quality feedback with co-workers and supervisor, and integrated feedback into work.
• Demonstrate growth throughout the season in core outdoor education responsibilities including group leadership, risk management, experiential teaching techniques, and logistics.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Teaching or mentoring experience, preferably with middle or high school age students.
• Enthusiasm for working with student groups in remote areas.
• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and demonstrated ability to work with youth across a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.
• Experience camping and living in outdoor settings, especially preparing meals for large groups on camp stoves.
• Experience and prior success working well on a small team in a dynamic and changing work environment.
• Valid driver’s license with an insurable driving record.
• Must be physically fit and capable of participating in intense physical labor including, but not limited to: ability to lift 50 pounds, spend 8-10 hours a day in all weather conditions (e.g., sun, heat, wind, cold, snow, etc.) and hike up to 5 miles a day with a day pack and equipment, ability to conduct repetitive hand and arm motions, and able to maneuver in tight spaces, including bending and kneeling.
• Legally able to work in the US.
• English fluency.
• Minimum 21 years of age.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of the Rocky Mountains/Intermountain West, especially the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
• Field research experience.
• Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications.
• Undergraduate coursework or bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science/studies, environmental education or related field.

Schedule: 

The Yellowstone wildlife ecology program will run from late May through August 2021. Interns will work approximately 35-45 field days over the course of summer, with opportunities to pick up additional hourly office work supporting summer programs when not in the field. These work estimates do not include our mandatory summer training session (room & board provided), to be held in early May.

Compensation and benefits:

• Upon completion of training, interns will earn a $175 USD/week stipend for Sunday-Saturday periods where the intern works at least one day, for the duration of the contract period.
• EPI provided shared housing in Missoula, MT.
• Room and board while on course & during training.
• Professional development and training throughout the internship.
• Access to discounts with popular outdoor gear retailers.