Intern - Mountains

Muddy Sneakers operates at the crossroads of outdoor science instruction, public education, and conservation to awaken in children a deeply felt connection to the natural world – one that inspires curiosity, stimulates learning, and brings new life to classroom performance. We envision a world where every child has the opportunity to form a connection to nature and benefit from the wellness it provides. We are committed to becoming a national model for closing the science literacy gap, ensuring diversity thrives in the outdoors, and instilling an understanding of one’s role in the greater ecosystem. In doing so, we cultivate healthier generations committed to the stewardship of our natural resources.

Muddy Sneakers shares place-based, experiential science learning and nature discovery with 5th grade students in our public schools. As part of a school partnership, Instructor teams guide learning expeditions onto nearby, protected lands, with the goal of introducing students to the wonders of the natural world through teaching science hands-on, outdoors, in small-group settings. Merging the energy of young students with the energy of these outdoor places sets the stage for rich experiences that bring personal meaning to the classroom science curriculum. Muddy Sneakers supports inquiry-based learning throughout the school year through other partnership elements, including a nature-based science curriculum for the schoolyard and virtual sessions with instructors. Muddy Sneakers strives to develop in children a life-long love of nature by unlocking academic achievement, inspiring the joy of learning, and planting an understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.

The position of Intern for Muddy Sneakers is a part-time (up to 2 days/ week) seasonal position. Interns are responsible for assisting in the delivery of high quality, science and nature programming in an outdoor setting while maintaining students’ safety and implementing respectful and positive behavior management techniques when necessary. Interns serve an important role within the organization. Their enthusiasm, knowledge, education & facilitation skills, sensitivity to the needs of the students, and overall commitment to the organization are essential for its success. Interns will report directly to their Muddy Sneakers Program Manager.

Essential Roles & Responsibilities

Strong candidates will be committed to the Muddy Sneaker mission and possess a degree of the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

Knowledge:

• Become well-versed in the organization and program curriculum
• Provide high quality field instruction
• Help to ensure exemplary field safety
• Keep up to date with state changes in End of Grade (EOG) evaluations, testing practices, and curriculum standards
• Assist in keeping the vehicles prepared for field use (cleaned, fueled, supplied, etc.)
• Report when resupply items are needed to Program Manager
• Work with research partners, as necessary, to assist with more comprehensive analysis of the Muddy Sneakers program

Skills:

• Effectively communicate in both verbal and written communications
• Read written documentation both on paper and on screen
• Make decisions in high-stress situations
• Recognize and respond positively to social cues of children and adults
• Utilize discretion when faced with sensitive issues
• Work in a team, perform interactive behaviors, and respect a chain of command
• Help to build and maintain close relationships with school partners

Abilities:

• Be comfortable and work effectively in an outdoor or natural setting
• Work with and have patience for children for up to 8 hours a day
• Hike up to five (5) miles each day
• Lift and carry up to fifty (50) pounds
• Assist with development/outreach events as necessary
• Staff periodic special events/booths throughout the year
• Attend staff meetings and one-on-one meetings

Term and Compensation

Term of Position

Intern positions are part time, seasonal positions with a weekly commitment of up to 2 days/week of work. The season runs from mid January through the end of May.

Compensation

Interns are paid at an hourly rate of $16/hour.