Job Description
Are you passionate about wildlife conservation, education, and mentoring youth? This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact by guiding high school students through an immersive summer experience in Montana's Bitterroot Valley. Join us as a Wildlife Internship Field Instructor and help shape the future of conservation while gaining valuable field experience in a supportive, inclusive environment.
About the Internship Program
The Wildlife Internship program offers high school students the chance to explore ecological research, conservation service, and environmental education in the stunning natural setting of Florence, Montana. For over a decade, this program has provided a platform for students to work on real-world conservation projects, conduct research, and deepen their understanding of the Bitterroot Valley ecosystem.
About the Role
We are looking for two enthusiastic Field Instructors to lead and mentor a total of 12 interns over the course of this summer. Working alongside program staff and partners, you will spend Monday through Thursday outdoors at the MPG Ranch. Here, you'll lead conservation projects such as invasive species removal, fence repair, and wildlife research while helping students develop essential skills like wildlife observation, nature journaling, and Leave No Trace practices.
As a Field Instructor, your responsibilities will include supervising interns, ensuring safety and risk management, and fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. You'll also play a vital role in supporting the interns' personal growth, guiding them through research projects, and helping them connect to the local ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
Create a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment for interns during their time in the field.
Lead experiential environmental education lessons for a diverse group of high school students.
Facilitate ecological research and conservation projects, ensuring adherence to established protocols.
Mentor interns through the development and execution of their independent research projects.
Organize and lead outdoor activities, including wildlife observation and service projects.
Manage logistical challenges, respond to emergencies, and prioritize safety at all times.
Maintain clear and effective communication with interns, colleagues, and program partners.
Participate in mandatory training, staff meetings, and program debriefs throughout the season.
Ensure proper care and maintenance of program equipment, vehicles, and gear.
Maintain detailed program records and complete all required paperwork promptly.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental education, natural resource management, or a related field; OR equivalent professional experience.
Current certifications in Wilderness First Responder and CPR (required).
Experience
2-3 years of experience teaching science or based content to middle or high school students in formal or informal settings.
Proven outdoor leadership experience working with youth in remote or wilderness settings.
Field research experience in areas such as wildlife, botany, geology, or hydrology.
Demonstrated success working collaboratively in a small team and dynamic environment.
Strong camping skills with the ability to teach outdoor living skills to participants.
Physically fit, capable of lifting 50 pounds, hiking up to 5 miles daily, and performing tasks in variable weather conditions.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record (required).
Skills and Attributes
Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.
Effective mentorship and leadership skills to guide and inspire young participants.
Experience fostering inclusive and culturally responsive environments for diverse youth populations.
Excellent organizational and logistical management skills.
Positive, solution-oriented attitude with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Other Requirements
Must be at least 21 years old.
Legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive program environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Field research experience specific to the Bitterroot Valley or nearby regions.
Familiarity with the MPG Ranch.
Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator certification.
Curriculum development experience.
Employment Type: Other
Salary: $ 30.00 Per Hour
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Summer work, Local area, Remote work, Work from home, Monday to Thursday,