Intern - Naturalist (Summer)

the South Dakota State Government • Sioux Falls, SD

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Naturalist interns assist education staff with programming at Good Earth State Park, Lake Alvin Recreation Area, and Newton Hills State Park. Programs serve groups and community members, from preschool children to adults, and cover topics including South Dakota natural resources, local cultural history, and outdoor skills. Interns help deliver existing programs, develop future public programs, and staff the visitor center information desk to support programming and customer service. They also assist with the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the Good Earth State Park Visitor Center. Training is provided. The position runs during the summer, from May through August, and is based at Good Earth State Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Applicants must be current students taking at least six credit hours in the upcoming or immediately preceding semester, and must have completed one year (nine months) of their chosen program by the start of the internship. Preference may be given to junior- or senior-standing applicants, South Dakota residents, and students of South Dakota institutions. Positions may be filled before the closing date.

Requirements

• Be a current part-time or full-time student taking at least six credit hours in the upcoming or immediately preceding semester.
• Be enrolled at a college, university, or technical institute when applying.
• Have completed one year (nine months) of the chosen program by the start of the internship.
• Have working knowledge of South Dakota’s natural and cultural history.
• Be able to develop and present informational programs to diverse park users.
• Communicate effectively in a public setting and work as part of a team.
• Enjoy working with children and adults and spending time outdoors.

Nice To Haves

• Junior or senior standing.
• South Dakota residency.
• Enrollment at a South Dakota institution.

Responsibilities

• Assist education staff with programming at Good Earth State Park, Lake Alvin Recreation Area, and Newton Hills State Park.
• Assist with programs for groups and community members, ranging from preschool to adult classes.
• Develop future public programs.
• Staff the visitor center information desk to meet programming and customer service needs.
• Assist with day-to-day operation and maintenance duties at the Good Earth State Park Visitor Center.

What This Job Offers

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