Work year: July 1—September 5

Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center is seeking a backcountry intern for the 2011 expedition season. Opal Creek is a magnificent 35,000-acre ancient forest on the western slopes of the Cascade Range in Oregon. This spectacular area achieved federal protection from logging after a very long and nationwide struggle.

In this setting, our Interns work alongside our Science Instructors. Interns are responsible for the health and happiness of our summer expedition students as they backpack through the Opal Creek and Bull of the Woods Wilderness area. Interns will be expected to learn basic forest ecology and stream ecology throughout their stay. Interns are responsible for helping with the safety and supervision of students age 10-16, including cooking, water filtration, swimming, campfires, and hanging bear bags. Interns will work with Instructors to lead our Summer Expeditions.

We run our programs from the old mining town of Jawbone Flats, an off grid community three miles inside of the Opal Creek wilderness. Interns will be expected to spend most weeks in the backcountry (Opal Creek and Bull of the Woods Wilderness) with a few days in camp between programs. The terrain is steep and Interns should be physically fit and able to provide positive encouragement to our participants, many of who will be participating in their first backcountry camping experience.

In addition to our Summer Expeditions Interns will be responsible for helping run all aspects of our residential programs including cleaning cabins, helping in the kitchen, driving gear shuttles and helping with facility maintenance as necessary.

This is a residential position. Interns will be housed in platform tents while staying in Jawbone Flats. Compensation: $200/week plus housing, utilities and most meals provided.

Minimum qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age. High school diploma or GED required. Current enrollment in an undergraduate program, with a science or education focus is preferred.