See Below
North Cascades Institute is seeking motivated college students or recent graduates to be spring interns at its Environmental Learning Center, located on the shores of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park. Up to two interns will be selected each season to work under the supervision of Institute staff. Interns will be provided with job training in environmental education with the practical application of skills; as such, interns will work under close supervision from mentors. Duties will include observing, co-teaching and solo teaching our residential environmental education program, Mountain School; assisting with educational programs for youth and adults; assisting with Learning Center operations; and participating in Institute events, staff meetings, and program debriefs. Interns will be responsible for completing an independent project related to the experience. This is a full-time position. Interns should expect to work five days (approximately forty hours) each week. Some weekend work is required. There is some flexibility with responsibilities based upon individual skills and interests.
Qualifications
Required:
- Enthusiasm for the mission of North Cascades Institute
- Undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Education, Biology or other related field
- Experience working with children
- Willingness to live in a rural area
- Ability to hike four miles with a backpack
- Possession of current driver’s license; acceptable driving record for past three years
- CPR/First Aid Certification (more advanced certifications preferred)
- Criminal history disclosure form and background check will be required
Preferred:
- Wilderness First Responder Certification. Strong preference will be given to applicants with this certification. Interns without this certification will not be able to solo instruct some programs.
- Experience living in a small community
- Experience working at a camp or residential education center
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office
- Ability to complete the full term of the position
Responsibilities
Teaching (50%): Shadow, team teach, or solo instruct Mountain School; assist with at least one weekend program
Administration and operations (20%): Attend weekly Mountain School meetings, staff meetings and hands-to-work; assist with facility operations and gear maintenance.
Training and Evaluation (15%): Attend staff training and complete intern-specific training; participate in weekly program debrief meetings, weekly check-ins with supervisor, end-of-season debriefs and exit interview; participate in peer observations and feedback.
Independent Project (15%): Complete an independent project related to natural history, environmental education, stewardship or the operation of an Environmental Learning Center. Topics are flexible based upon the interests and skills of the volunteer. The project should be approved by the supervisor and submitted to North Cascades Institute upon completion.
Compensation, Benefits and Housing
This is an unpaid intern position. Room and partial board are provided. Intern housing is either at the Environmental Learning Center or in the neighboring towns of Diablo or Newhalem. Interns may be asked to share a room for part or all of the position. Meals are provided when programs are in session; otherwise, volunteers are responsible for providing their own food. Interns are responsible for their own health insurance and transportation.
Application deadlines
January 10, 2013
Internship Dates
March 1st – June 10, 2013 (some flexibility)
To Apply
For more information, contact Stephanie Bennett at 206-526-2567, or Stephanie_Bennett@ncascades.org. To apply, please send letter of interest, resume, and names of three references with current contact information to Stephanie_Bennett@ncascades.org