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 winter courses (January through April). Upon successful completion of the internship, interns will have the opportunity to interview for summer field instructor positions (May through August 2020). 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, winter interns will have the opportunity to interview for field instructor positions for the summer field season (May – August).

 
Intern Responsibilities:

• Support field instructors in the preparation and closure of courses including completing paperwork, managing gear, or other course related tasks.
• Actively participate in all EPI field courses, and support and reinforce the leadership provided by course instructors.
• Promote and ensure a safe and inclusive learning/living environment.
• 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.
• 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.
• Show and maintain a positive attitude.
• Provide feedback to and receive feedback from instructors and program staff, and effectively integrate 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:

• Some teaching or mentoring experience, preferably with middle or high school age students;
• Enthusiasm for working with student groups in remote areas;
• 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 winter ecology program runs January through April 2020. Winter field interns must participate in a required, pre-employment, unpaid training session starting in late December 2019 in Missoula, MT. Yellowstone winter ecology program field interns work primarily in the field during the program season on EPI field courses.