Naturalist Interns help to operate and maintain two nature centers:

• Mountain Discovery Center at Walking Mountains Science Center in Avon, CO
• Vail Resorts’ Nature Discovery Center on Vail Mountain

Additionally, Naturalists will develop programs and lessons, guide snowshoe tours for multi-aged groups, and teach winter ecology and snow science lessons to youth in Vail’s Ski School program. Additional opportunities include teaching lessons for afterschool programs, Ski with a Ranger and Ski with Smokey programs, nature-focused early childhood programs, and assisting in on-going Science Center projects. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in on-site, paid training prior to beginning internship responsibilities
• Reliably follow given work schedule
• Research, plan and facilitate lesson plans for all assigned programs
• Provide visitors and programs participants with positive, educational experiences
• Operate 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 6 people;
• Walking Mountains Science Center hires friendly, energetic and professional people;
• Preferred: Intermediate or above ability to ski or snowboard
• Desired: Bilingual in Spanish, specialized knowledge in a natural science field (botany, ornithology, etc.)

Duration of Season: November 30, 2020 to April 10, 2021

Compensation and benefits: $300 weekly stipend, housing for the duration of the internship, and a winter ski pass to Vail and Beaver Creek ski areas.