Naturalist Apprentice

Apprenticeship positions are designed for college graduates who desire a well-rounded experience with interpretive program planning and delivery, animal husbandry, special events, and facility operations at a nature center. The goals of the apprenticeship program are the following: (1) provide quality training and practical experience for individuals in a wide range of disciplines, (2) introduce apprentices to the operational procedures of a federal agency, and (3) provide experiences in environmental education and interpretation for the diverse customers who use Land Between the Lakes (LBL). 

Job Description: 

This is a full-time position, lasting 9 months to 1 year, at the Woodlands Nature Station within Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. A $300/week allowance and onsite government housing within LBL will be provided. 

Job duties include: 

• Developing and delivering interpretive natural history programming for the public 

• Providing daily care and husbandry for captive native wildlife 

• Conducting curriculum-based programs on-site and off-site for schools and other groups ages pre-K through adult 

• Leading (and co-leading) outdoor excursions including nature hikes, canoe/kayak 

trips, and wildlife-viewing van tours 

• Maintaining native plant gardens 

• Interacting with visitors on a daily basis through initiating informal contacts 

• Participating in day-to-day facility operations as needed, including scheduling groups and taking reservations for public programs 

• Other trainings that may be provided include: First Aid and CPR; NAI Certified Interpretive Guide Training (CIG); Defensive Driving; Canoeing; and cross-training at other interpretive facilities, including a living history farm, planetarium/observatory, and environmental education camp.

Qualifications: 

• 4-year college degree (B.A. or B.S.) 

• Willingness to work a varied schedule, including weekends, some evenings, and holidays 

• Willingness to work with and handle live animals on a daily basis, including raptors and reptiles 

• Enjoyment of working in a highly people-oriented job, especially including interacting with children 

• Participation as a team member with other Nature Station staff, including other naturalists, information clerks, gift shop clerks, and maintenance personnel. 

• Previous experience in environmental education or interpretation, teaching, camp counseling, animal husbandry, or outdoor leadership is a plus 

• Introductory knowledge of the area’s natural history and willingness to learn more 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Canva preferred 

• Ability and/or willingness to learn to drive a 10-passenger van