Position Description

Title: Naturalist Intern

Unpaid Internship: late June-August (start and end dates flexible)

(Must have availability during the hours of 8:00-4:30, primarily Monday/Tuesday &/or Wednesday/Thursday)

(Willing to work with students to earn academic credit)

Reports to: Associate Director of Programs & Engagement or Associate Director of Stewardship 

River Bend has a variety of ways to join our team this summer. We are offering paid, residential environmental education internships this summer for college students and young adults looking to gain valuable experience in the field through RIver Bend. Interns will have free room and board on the Shattuck St. Mary's campus and work 40 hours each week helping with land stewardship projects and environmental education programs. Interns will receive a cash stipend at the end of their service.

Qualifications / Education / Experience

• Education / experience with environmental education programs
• Class D Driver’s license with violation free driving record.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Means of self-transportation during work hours as needed.  
• Proof of meeting Minnesota requirements regarding auto registration and liability insurance.
• First aid / CPR / AED certification is a plus.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

 Ability to:

• Effectively communicate, orally and in writing, with groups and individuals
• Work indoors and outdoors in a variety of temperature extremes and weather conditions
• Withstand the physical demands of the work which involves some lifting, carrying, stooping, bending, reaching, walking, standing, sitting and computer use
• Identify, analyze, and solve problems
• Plan for safety and follow risk management principles
• Read, write, and communicate in English
• Work non-standard hours when the need arises
• Show energy and passion for the River Bend Nature Center’s mission.
• Organizational skills with ability to prioritize and meet deadlines, working as a team with staff and volunteers.

 

Expected Experiences, Outcomes, and Essential Duties

**This internship is flexible to focus on environmental education, natural resources, or both per applicant preference**

 Environmental Education Planning and Implementation

• Help plan and implement summer camp programs
• Learn and teach recreation activities such as archery, hiking, canoeing, geocaching, and compass courses and environmental topics such as reptiles, amphibians, pond dipping, and more.
• Work with varying age groups (Kindergarten-8th grade, and all ages at public programs)
• Work with students of diverse cultures to understand the natural world
• Learn and practice environmental education techniques, including using live animal ambassadors

Natural Resources 

• Hands on work with habitat restoration practices and techniques: 
  • Identify major habitats and management methods Woodland/Forest, Prairie, Wetland, ect. 
  • Identify and control non-native invasive species with tools such as hand saws, loppers, weed wrenches, and pesticide dobbers
  • Understand the impacts non-native species have on native species 

• Hands on work and experience in trail management: 
  • Survey trails for damage and develop a plan to address the issues 
  • Minimizing erosion, dispersal of invasive species, habitat protection, ect. 
  • Maintain trails keep trails clear of downed trees, encroaching brush, and occasional mowing
  • Methods for encouraging the public to stay on designated trails 
• Work with the general public, school groups, and other community groups for resource volunteering

Certification Opportunities

• MN Tree Inspector Certification
• MN Master Naturalist (Pending Availability)

Relationships

• Implement strategies to train and motivate volunteers.
• Field questions from and cultivate interest in River Bend Nature Center from visitors and trail users.
•  Handle visitor and public input courteously and responsively with respect for differing opinions and maintain positive relationships across sectors.

 Other

• Maintain accurate records and data collection to facilitate evaluation, ongoing quality improvement, and inventory of supplies and equipment.
• Exhibit professionalism and commitment to the River Bend Nature Center mission, guiding principles and policies.
• Work as a team to integrate organizational operation objectives and actions.
• Positive, optimistic attitude and willingness to be flexible and work flexible hours.
• Keep public and work spaces neat and orderly.
• Carry out other duties as directed.

 

How to Apply

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to: internships@rbnc.org 

If you're a student from Carleton College, please use this link to apply on the handshake portal.

If you're a student from St. Olaf College, please use this link to apply on the handshake portal.

Or mail to

River Bend Nature Center

PO Box 186

Faribault, MN 55021

 

River Bend Nature Center was established in 1978 in Faribault, Minnesota and is a non-profit nature center located on 743 acres which includes maple basswood forests, restored prairies, wetlands and the Straight River. The mission of River Bend Nature Center is to help people discover, enjoy, understand, and preserve the incredible natural world that surrounds us. Through contact with River Bend Nature Center, we envision that people will develop understanding of natural systems and our connections within them and be inspired to conserve and be stewards of the natural world. River Bend Nature Center provides environmental education, conservation and recreational programs, events, and activities for area schools and the public. Visit year-round to explore ten miles of multi-use trails and an interpretive center open to the public with no entrance fees. Become a member, donate, or learn more at www.rbnc.org