Environmental Education Fellowship

Dunes Learning Center is the nonprofit education partner of Indiana Dunes National Park and the leader of environmental education in the area. We serve a diverse community and seek a diverse workforce. Dunes Learning Center is an equal opportunity provider and does not discriminate. 

POSITION SUMMARY

Environmental Education Fellows are key members of the Dunes Learning Center team and are responsible for providing meaningful experiences for children and adults regarding the diversity of ecosystems and cultural history of the Indiana Dunes all year long. Fellows help students create connections, build confidence, and develop a sense of place by providing opportunities to explore, ask questions, reflect and work together as a team. 

The Fellowship program provides an opportunity for next generation leaders to receive training and coaching to develop their naturalist, outdoor education, and resource interpretation skills and techniques. Fellows often work in pairs during the summer to give each the opportunity to shadow peers and provide/receive feedback. During the school year, Fellows have opportunities to extend their professional development through workshops, in-services, and shadowing National Park Service staff. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Prepare for and lead educational/interpretative programs in natural and cultural history, inquiry-based science, and resource stewardship for a diverse community of students aged 6-17. 
• Maintain a Positive Mental Attitude and serve as a role model for responsible environmental behavior and literacy. 
• Ensure safety and well-being of program participants using sound judgment and applying appropriate decisions by following safety protocol and reporting incidents, near misses or possible hazards. 
• Attend program staff training workshops and regularly scheduled staff meetings. 
• Assist in the maintenance of all program supplies, equipment, and facilities. 
• Actively participate to support fundraising efforts. 
• Comply with all Dunes Learning Center policies and always represent DLC in a professional manner. 
• Perform all assigned duties critical to the operation of the Dunes Learning Center.
• Assist with other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS

To qualify for the Fellowship program, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty. Dunes Learning Center aims to make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. All Dunes Learning Center employees must submit to a background check and possible drug screening. 

REQUIRED

• Bachelor's degree preferred or some formal education with equivalent experience. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Commitment to equity and inclusion. 
• Physically able to perform duties outdoors, in all weather conditions, and hike several miles over dunes terrain while carrying a 25-lb backpack. 
• A willingness to be coached and to receive feedback. 
• Ability to work independently as well as on a team. 
• Ability to work dynamic hours, including evenings and weekends. Hours align with on-site education and event programming schedules and vary seasonally.
• Official government identification. 

DESIRABLE

• Experience with environmental education and/or interpretation.
• Knowledge of the natural history of the Calumet Region.
• Ability to speak Spanish.
• Lifeguard certification.
• Possess valid driver's license and have reliable transportation for local travel. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

Fellows are required to regularly stand for long periods of time and walk up to 5 miles per day on sandy dune terrain while carrying a 25-lb backpack in all weather conditions. Fellows must be able to verbally communicate and have visual abilities that allow them to deliver program safely. 

COMPENSATION 

• $900 bi-weekly stipend (average 40 hours per week). 
• Shared housing (private bedroom). 
• Professional development opportunities. 
• Meals and weekly s'mores when groups are in residence. 

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to Stephanie Husek, Onsite Program Manager at employment@duneslearningcenter.org