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.

Each internship is an individualized progression. 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 provide relevant ecology and science lessons to students.

Responsibilities:

• Support field instructors in the preparation and closure of courses including completing paperwork, managing gear, or other course related tasks.
• Drive EPI vehicles and tow a trailer to transport participating students and gear.
• Supervise group cooking and camping chores.
• Complete data entry of student and chaperone evaluation data.
• Actively participate in all EPI field courses, and support and reinforce the leadership provided by course instructors.
• Promote and ensure a safe learning/living environment.
• 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, co- instructor(s), and EPI staff.
• Show and maintain a positive attitude.
• Serve as a mentor for students.
• Teach classes and lead designated activities effectively utilizing EPI educational techniques.
• Support accurate field research data collection.
• 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 outdoors, especially preparing meals for large groups on camp stoves;
• Must be willing to work hard and actively participate as part of a team;
• 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, or related field.

Schedule: 

The Yellowstone summer wildlife ecology program runs May through August. Summer field interns must participate in a required, unpaid training session starting on May 4th in Missoula, MT. Yellowstone summer wildlife ecology program field interns work primarily in the field during the program season assisting with EPI field courses.

Compensation and benefits:

• Upon completion of training, $175 USD/week for Sunday-Saturday periods where the intern works at least one day, for the duration of the contract period.
• Free, 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.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications will only be accepted electronically. Apply online here.

Questions about this position and/or application can sent to Erin Clark, Yellowstone program director, erindc@ecologyproject.org.