Our summer naturalist internship program is a training ground for young leaders, educators, and scientists who want to share their passion for nature. Naturalist Interns gain hands-on experience while working closely with our staff of experienced naturalists and museum professionals. Interns take the lead on planning and presenting a variety of programs for youth and adults. They also contribute to the diverse array of projects involved with running a small non-profit museum.

Summary

Start Date:

June 3, 2025

End Date:

August 16, 2025 (exact dates are flexible)

Hours:

40 hours/week

June 3 - 6 (Tuesday through Friday) training week;

June 9-14 (Monday through Saturday) Master Naturalist training;

Beginning June 17, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 8:30 - 4:30 occasional evenings

Compensation:

$290/week; housing provided

The Jackson Burke Staff House is 10 miles east of Cable on Lake Namakagon. Housing includes private bedroom/bathroom, shared living spaces, laundry, Wi-Fi, and all utilities.

Positions Available:

Responsibilities:

Design lesson plans and facilitate Junior Naturalist programs for children in grades K-6.
Assist docents in answering questions in the “Northwoods Story” exhibit.
Operate the Museum front desk and provide friendly visitor services.
Assist with basic care and display of museum collections.
Assist with a statewide community science project by hosting outreach events and contributing local biodiversity observation data to sites like iNaturalist.
Assist with special events, including fundraisers and the 4th of July activities.
Write natural history articles for local publications.
Design social media content for Facebook and Instagram.
Assist with a variety of natural history programs for visitors of all ages.

Interns will gain hands-on experience in:

Lesson planning and group management in an informal educational setting.
Teaching people of varying ages and backgrounds.
Basic care and interpretation of natural history museum specimens.
Interpretive writing for publications with the mentorship of a published author.
Management of marketing content on social media platforms.
General operating duties of a small non-profit organization.
Developing knowledge of Northwoods natural history, with expertise provided by local professionals.
Identifying and using informal educational resources from national organizations including the American Alliance of Museums, the Association of Science and Technology Centers, and the National Informal STEM Education Network.

Qualifications:

Have completed at least 2 years of college in natural sciences, education, or related field. Equivalent experience will also be considered.
Have a valid driver’s license and ability to provide personal transportation.

A successful candidate will:

Show enthusiasm for teaching and learning about the natural world.
Be comfortable with leading hikes of up to 4 miles long on varied terrain.
Have experience working with children, preferably in an outdoor setting.
Be effective in both self-directed and cooperative environments. Have strong oral and written communication skills.
Be interested in pursuing a career in environmental education, natural history interpretation, museum sciences, or a related field.
Be comfortable with the benefits and challenges of life in a rural area and small town.

About the Museum:

The Cable Natural History Museum has been a community hub for environmental education since 1967 and gained national accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums in 2016. The Museum serves rural audiences in northwest Wisconsin and seasonal visitors from across the country. Interactive exhibits, educational programs, natural history collections, and a natural play area promote the Museum’s mission of connecting people to Northwoods nature.

The Museum’s 2025 exhibit will explore the forested region known as The Northwoods, how it came to be, why it is special, and how humans have influenced the landscape throughout history.

Located near the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the small town of Cable is rich in opportunities for outdoor recreation. This includes an incredible network of hiking trails, mountain bike trails, a National Scenic Riverway, numerous lakes, and more. The Jackson Burke Staff House features easy trail and lake access with a kayak available for use.

To Apply:

Send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two professional references. Return application materials by mail or email by January 7, 2025 to:

Rich Jaworski

Cable Natural History Museum

P.O. Box 416

Cable, WI 54821

rich@cablemuseum.org

Compensation Information

$290/week; housing provided

The Jackson Burke Staff House is 10 miles east of Cable on Lake Namakagon. Housing includes private bedroom/bathroom, shared living spaces, laundry, Wi-Fi, and all utilities.