Sierra Outdoor School invites passionate individuals seeking to immerse themselves in outdoor education to apply for our Naturalist Internship. This 10-month program offers a unique opportunity to develop teaching skills in a beautiful outdoor classroom nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California. Under the mentorship of experienced Naturalists and Program Coordinators, interns will undergo paid training and subsequently engage in hands-on teaching, challenge course facilitation, and raptor care.

To Apply: Fill out an application on EDJOIN using this link. 

Responsibilities:

• Teach NGSS-aligned curriculum in a variety of subjects including natural sciences and local history to primarily 4th and 6th grade students in an outdoor setting.

• Operate our challenge course, facilitate team-building initiatives, belay on our climbing wall, and facilitate our high ropes course and zipline.

• Assist in the care of raptors at our Raptor Center including feeding and handling, and utilize them as educational ambassadors.

• Lead small and large-group camp-style activities during evening programming.

• Receive mentorship and continuous learning through various training opportunities provided throughout the internship.

Our ideal applicant….

• Loves to play outside and is passionate about making the outdoors a safe, fun place for students to learn

• Is self-motivated, positive, energetic, and works well independently or on a team

• Possesses the social and emotional skills to build rapport and positive relationships with folks from all backgrounds, abilities, ages, cultures, orientations, identities and communities.

• Is able to communicate effectively to peers, supervisors, visiting students, teachers and parent chaperones.

• Is ready to challenge themselves and step outside their comfort zone

• Wants to learn and grow, and is open to feedback and coaching

• Is willing to live on-site in shared housing in a semi-remote setting

Qualifications:

• College degree in science, education, outdoor recreation, or related field preferred, however any combination of education and related experience will be considered

• Previous experience working with children preferred

• Valid driver’s license, clear fingerprints, background check, and negative TB test required.

• Ability to hike up to five miles per day in all weather conditions and lift between 10-50 pounds.

Compensation: $26,400 for the 10-month commitment 

Perks:

• Private bedroom in shared on-site housing with modern amenities.

• Meals provided during programs including salad bar.

• Weekly provision of food staples including eggs, pasta, quinoa, lentils, flour, sugar, etc.

• Wilderness First Aid, CPR, & AED training.

• $150 towards an outdoor education-related conference.

• A paid day to visit and observe another environmental education program.

• Pro-deals with select outfitters.

• Access to equipment including mountain bikes and kayaks during off-duty hour

Contact:

For inquiries, contact Emma Ervolina, Program Coordinator, at 209-532-3691 or emmaervolina@cusd.com. Visit the Sierra Outdoor School website at sos.cusd.com.