At Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, we are known for our decades-long scientific research into ecology, human impacts on environments, and the way the natural world works. That’s not all though – we are also committed to building the next generation of scientists and teachers and are excited to offer a science education apprenticeship program! This intensive 12-month experiential training program will transform participants into well-rounded community leaders, educators and researchers.

Summary

Applications are open NOW for the next cohort of apprentices, who will serve from August 2026 – July 2027. Details, a full job description, and application are available online at https://z.umn.edu/cc_edapprenticeship . Questions? Contact Dr. Kara Baldwin, baldwink@umn.edu

About Cedar Creek

Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve is a large ecological research site in central Minnesota (East Bethel) with natural habitats that represent the entire state. There is no place of comparable biological diversity so close to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Cedar Creek is owned and operated by the University of Minnesota in cooperation with the Minnesota Academy of Science.

The people of Cedar Creek are dedicated to understanding our planet’s ecosystems and how they are changing under human pressures. Through research, conservation, and education, Cedar Creek will continue to bridge the gaps between science, community, and government.

Education at Cedar Creek involves learners of all ages; from elementary students through adult, public school through university, backyard gardeners through international scientists. With ecology now one of the essential applied sciences of our time, we are capitalizing on Cedar Creek’s scientific standing and embracing new roles at state and local levels. Through our K-12 programs, thousands of students come to Cedar Creek annually to learn ecology through hands-on field investigations, and teachers and educators benefit from on-site professional development workshops. The public can take advantage of tours of the many unique natural areas in Cedar Creek and the internationally-renowned research sites focusing on plant biodiversity and the effect of global change on plant communities, as well as participate directly in research through our participatory science projects. We work closely with partners in urban areas, Indigenous educators and knowledge keepers, and state and local agencies to ensure that our programs consider the pressing environmental issues of our times through a variety of lenses.

Summary of Position:

The Science Education Apprenticeship program supports recent college graduates in exploring environmental education, science education, ecological and education research, and community engagement techniques. The apprentices are hired, trained and supervised by the Education and Outreach Coordinator (EOC) at Cedar Creek. The program includes three broad areas for growth and development within the science education field, and connected to the research and mission of Cedar Creek:

33% K-12 Programs

Provide hands-on field ecology investigations to groups of students in grades K-12 who come to Cedar Creek on class field trips, and to classrooms of K-5 students offsite at local schools. Provide a safe, enjoyable learning environment for students and teachers. Demonstrate proper use of tools and equipment in investigations. Deliver accurate content.

33% Community Engagement

Create, implement, and assess community programs and outreach opportunities at Cedar Creek. Learn about the broader community and consider ways to connect through organizing and leading community events, guided hikes, family programs, and more. Coordinate and lead volunteer opportunities.

33% Education Research and Professional Development

Gain experience in education research and explore how to evaluate programs, understand community needs, and more. Attend national and state conferences and learn more about the world of environmental and science education, disciplinary-based education research, and more. Other certifications provided through the apprenticeship include First Aid and CPR Training and MN Master Naturalist. Position includes funding to attend other local professional development opportunities.

Essential Qualifications:

Able to commit to working August 10th, 2026 through July 31st, 2027
Reliable way to be physically present at Cedar Creek (East Bethel, MN) on a daily basis (access to transportation or ability to live onsite)
Interest in or experience working with youth in grades K-12
Interest in or experience delivering science content to the general public
Completion of at least 4 credit hours of natural science courses like biology, chemistry, ecology, natural resources, etc. by start date (please provide unofficial or official transcript)
Comfortable in water and able to lead groups on hikes of up to 3 miles
Comfort in outdoor settings for long periods of time in a variety of weather conditions and in proximity to insects, reptiles and other wildlife.
High level of self-motivation and enthusiasm
Willingness to try and learn new things
Willingness to work some evenings and weekends
Ability to pass a background check

Preferred Qualifications:

Background and/or degree in ecology, conservation biology, science education, or K-12 education
Experience leading and managing groups of up to 30 students indoors and outdoors, in inclement weather, and in sensitive research areas
Related experience as a naturalist, interpreter, camp counselor, trip leader, or other leadership roles
Public speaking experience
Ability to live onsite in shared housing
Valid US driver's license and/or reliable access to personal transportation

Compensation Information

Time and Compensation:

This program is designed as an apprenticeship or training position rather than as hourly work. Apprentices are expected to complete a minimum of 1,800 hours of work over the 12-month apprenticeship. There are many ways to structure these hours to allow for time off, flexibility in schedules, etc. (e.g., around 50 weeks at 36 hours/week, or around 45 weeks of 40 hours/week) while meeting this minimum.

The apprenticeship is paid as a monthly stipend (similar to other environmental training programs with other nature centers, state agencies, etc) with the option to either live onsite or receive the equivalent of onsite rent ($365/month) as a living subsidy.

$1,425/month stipend, paid monthly
Free housing onsite OR a $365/month living subsidy
Paid CPR and first aid training, discounts on outdoor gear and equipment, registration for at least one relevant local conference, and access to Cedar Creek’s canoes, bikes, snowshoes, and other equipment

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Science Education Apprenticeship Program