Full-Time AmeriCorps Member

AmeriCorps Member Essential Duties and Responsibilities: ALL AmeriCorps Members will:

• Facilitate interpretive programs for public visitors: including large groups, technology based Science on a Sphere, and outdoor programs (i.e. hikes, maple sugaring, ice fishing, and canoeing).
• Learn to handle live animals such as turtles, birds, and mammals for interpretive experiences.
• Teach school/afterschool programs to students in person and virtually, incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) activities and utilizing campus resources.
• Design, implement, and manage community science programming at the local library and schools. 
• Help maintain outdoor campus, opening and closing duties, trail sweeps, and gardening tasks.
• Assist with planning and coordinating festivals, trail programs, and the Youth Climate Summit.

Climate AmeriCorps Members: Above duties for ALL AmeriCorps Members and:

• Plan and implement climate education activities/workshops/presentations virtually and in-person.
• Spearhead Youth Climate Program communications by managing all social media accounts, compiling a monthly climate change education Newsflash, and promoting events.
• Assist with planning and implementation of our annual climate programs including the Educator Retreat, Youth Leadership Retreat, and the Adirondack Youth Climate Summit.
• Assist with mentoring local teens for the Youth Climate Leadership Retreat, Adirondack Youth Climate Summit planning, youth speaking engagements, and field trips.

Animal Care AmeriCorps Members: Above duties for ALL AmeriCorps Members and:

• Complete daily husbandry tasks for The Wild Center’s live animal collection including enclosure cleaning and servicing, diet preparation, and record keeping.
• Work closely with our animal ambassadors, including in direct contact with select animals, and develop a deeper understanding of animal behavior and natural history.
• Observe and participate in animal behavioral husbandry programs including environmental enrichment and animal training.
• Assist with medical treatments and procedures, under the direct supervision and instruction of Animal Care Staff.

Qualifications:

• Ability to commit to the full term 1700 hours, ~12 months of AmeriCorps service. 
• Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria.
• Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
• Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service.
• Interest in teaching natural history, climate science, and working outdoors throughout the year.
• Flexibility and adaptability - we work in a dynamic team setting with shifting duties.
• Self-motivated - you seek opportunities to learn and grow and can thrive independently.
• Positive attitude and a willingness to work with people - you must enjoy working and communicating with people, including members of our rural Adirondack community.
• Organization and time management skills - you will work on multiple tasks concurrently.
• Maturity and professionalism - you will represent The Wild Center and AmeriCorps.
• Detail and safety-oriented - working closely with wildlife requires a keen eye for details and will help you (and our animal ambassadors) thrive.
• Policies - be prepared to adhere to all Wild Center policies including Covid safety procedures and regulations. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination is required as a condition of employment.

Experience & Education:

• Have a high school diploma or its equivalent or not have dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and must agree to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
• A college degree is not required to apply for this position. We encourage current college students to apply, as well as non-traditional applicants not pursuing a degree.

Work Schedule:

• 40 hours per week, including weekends, special events, and occasional mornings and evenings, with two consecutive days off each week.
• Flexible start date, with AmeriCorps hours to be completed over the course of up to 12 months.
• Members will be required to attend AmeriCorps-specific service days throughout their term.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to traverse rolling trails and spend prolonged periods of time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, including extremely cold temperatures.
• Daily periods of standing, bending, and crouching. Physical ability to frequently lift, scrub, and climb. Regular exposure to dirt, dust, animal feces, and cleaning chemicals. (Animal Care specific)

To Apply:

Open our Full Time AmeriCorps Member Application or go to wildcenter.org/careers to access the job description and application link. Attach a resume within the application form. 

The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work.