Individual Placement - Environmental Education Participant

Student Conservation Association • North Bend, WA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The SCA Internship Program at Waskowitz Outdoor School provides young leaders with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental education, mentorship, and outdoor leadership with youth. Two female and two male individual placements will take on responsibilities similar to High School Leaders but with enhanced training and professional development opportunities. They will mentor 5th-grade students and high school leaders in cabins, lead outdoor activities, and facilitate community-building experiences such as songs, skits, and storytelling. Throughout the program, the SCA placements will receive additional training in environmental education, leadership development, large group management, and risk management to prepare them for future roles in conservation and education. This internship is designed to foster personal and professional growth while creating meaningful outdoor experiences for students.

Requirements

• Interest in working with youth and developing leadership skills
• Enthusiasm for outdoor education, environmental stewardship, and experiential learning
• Ability to work as part of a team and build positive relationships with peers, students, and staff
• Willingness to learn and receive feedback in a structured, growth-oriented environment
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and supportive community for students and fellow leaders
• Strong communication skills and a positive attitude

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with children in any setting (camps, tutoring, babysitting, mentoring, etc.)
• Prior participation in outdoor education, conservation programs, or leadership training
• Experience leading songs, skits, games, or group activities
• Physical ability to hike 2-5 miles on uneven terrain while carrying a 10-20 lb pack in various weather conditions

Responsibilities

• Build a positive and inclusive cabin and class community by fostering friendships and guiding conflict resolution
• Lead and engage students in positive, educational activities, including skits, songs, and team-building exercises
• Act as a role model by demonstrating enthusiasm, stewardship, and responsible behavior
• Monitor and guide students in the dining hall, during transitions, and in group settings to ensure smooth program flow
• Prepare students for outdoor field experiences and guide them in safe outdoor explorations
• Encourage and serve as mentors to high school leaders, providing guidance and feedback to support their growth
• Communicate student or leader behavior or safety concerns to Waskowitz staff and teachers, exercising professional judgment and using provided behavior management tools
• Participate in regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and professional development opportunities
• Engage small groups of students on trails, hiking 2-5 miles with a 10-20 lb. pack in all weather conditions
• Act as a teaching assistant during field experiences, supporting student engagement with natural history and Washington’s temperate rainforest ecosystem
• Participate in camp songs, dances, skits, and activities to create a fun, energetic atmosphere
• Prepare program materials and assist with logistical support as needed
• Recognize and provide support for students experiencing homesickness, anxiety, or stress
• Adapt to student needs and changing circumstances while maintaining flexibility
• Cooperate with high school leaders, Waskowitz staff, teachers, and students as part of a supportive team
• Provide constructive feedback to high school leaders and students while receiving and implementing feedback for personal growth
• Host meals and facilitate leader meetings and check-ins
• Maintain and respect technological expectations around phone use

Benefits

• $650 RT Travel Allowance (Paid once)
• $500 Weekly Living Allowance (Paid Bi-Weekly)
• Housing on site provided
• AmeriCorps Eligible (Award valued at ~$1,956) at fulfillment of 450 service hours
• Interpretive Skills/Outdoor Teaching and Leadership Skills

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed