Environmental Education Summer Program Intern

Live and work in Alaska's Copper River Valley while helping youth learn, grow and get outside.  WISE is a locally based nonprofit organization, we present a wide diversity of programs for all ages.  Day Hikes, science camps and community programs in a variety of locations including Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.  Interns assist with all aspects of programs depending on their interests, including teaching, safety, photography, logistics, equipment, etc.

The intern will serve a small nonprofit organization in rural Alaska in developing, planning, and implementing outdoor education programs, and assist with scientific research projects.  Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment (WISE) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded locally in 2002, with the mission of providing science and environmental education for all ages, resources for learning, and support for scientific research.  The location is on the road system in the remote Copper River Valley, near Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.  Anchorage is over 200 miles away by road, and the total population of the area is about 2500 year-round residents.  The staff is small, so versatility, a can-do attitude and happy personality are essential.   The WISE office and staff housing are located 8 miles from the nearest store, so a vehicle is recommended.

WISE’s summer programs are designed to provide opportunities for learning, outdoor recreation, skill building, and connection to a sense of place. We seek to instill a stewardship ethic by sharing the wonders of the place we call home. In addition to learning about the local environment, youth are mentored in outdoor skills such as map and compass use, safety, and backcountry camping.

Job Responsibilities:

Shadowing, Co-Teaching, Teaching (25%): Shadow and co-teach (under the supervision of a supervisor) day and overnight programs; co-lead hikes; work with a mentor to evaluate teaching methods; solo lead or teach once approved by a supervisor. 

Citizen Science and Stewardship (25%): Shadow and co-teach (under the supervision of a supervisor): aid Willow Creek Research Project in stream surveys.

Curriculum Development (15%): Assist supervisor with the development of lesson plans that could be used with youth, family, and/or adult programs; assist with creation and maintenance of educational materials.

Logistics and Planning (25%): Aid WISE staff in planning, gear maintenance, and logistics for programs.

Training and Evaluation (5%): Attend summer staff training and intern-specific training. Participate in program debrief meetings, weekly check-ins with supervisor, end-of season debrief and exit interview; participate in peer observations and feedback.

Administration and Operations (5%):  Assist with facilities operations and administrative tasks.

 Qualifications:
Required:

• Enthusiasm for mission of Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment
• Keen interest or course work in environmental education, natural sciences, or outdoor studies
• Experience in camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation.
• Enthusiasm for working with youth
• Ability to hike four miles with a backpack
• American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certification
• Pass pre-employment background check
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office
• Valid drivers license  
   

Preferred:

• Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification
• Experience living in a rural community
• Experience teaching environmental or outdoor education programs
• Ability to complete the full term of the internship

To Apply:

Please send a letter of interest, resume, and the names of three references with current contact information to:

Robin Mayo, Executive Director

Email: robin@wise-edu.org

Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment

HC 60 Box 338A

Copper Center, AK 99573