Naturalist Internship

Job Overview

This is a position that will teach you how to teach. Our internship program is an ideal, supportive training ground for those who want to become outstanding outdoor educators! 

Our interns create rich and rewarding experiences for our visiting sixth grade students, teachers, and counselors. Interns will lead groups of students as they hike the trails, explore, and gain a greater connection to the natural world. Interns teach hands-on science curriculum in a fun, engaging way. Interns who complete our program are self-reflective teachers, effective environmental educators, and more knowledgeable about natural history. Interns receive training at the beginning of the internship that will continue throughout their stay.

Naturalist Interns, once comfortable, also play a large role in our high school counselor program; by providing suggestions and advice to our counselors on how our counselors can best assist Naturalists while out on the trail, and by providing guidance for how the counselors can best handle student behavior in the dorms. Interns will write formal evaluations for their counselors at the end of each week. 

Site Description

Owned by the Stanislaus County Department of Education, Foothill Horizons is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains surrounded by 143 acres of oak woodlands. The site offers varied terrain through beautiful forests of large ponderosa pines and oaks. We are located 5 miles east of the historic town of Sonora, California, at an elevation of 2,500 feet. 

Desired Qualifications

·    A strong desire to become an outstanding outdoor educator and the desire for feedback and growth in this area

·    Bachelor’s degree or 2 years of experience working with children in a professional setting

·    First Aid and CPR certifications required, must pass physical, TB Test, pre-hire drug test (marijuana excluded), and FBI fingerprint clearance. Must have a valid standard driver’s license to drive students in school vehicles

·    Ability and willingness to live on site for the duration of the internship

·    A love of the outdoors, and a desire to inspire children to connect with nature, each other, and themselves

·    Ability to hike up to 5 miles a day in all weather conditions

·    Spanish fluency strongly desired

·    We are searching for self-motivated, flexible, passionate people who work both well on their own and as part of a team

We serve a diverse population of students and strive towards having our staff team reflect those we serve. We recognize that role models and educators come from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about making a difference, we encourage you to apply even if you think you do not meet all the desired qualifications. 

Compensation & Perks  

·       $16.50/hour – most weeks are 5-day work weeks (~8 hour work days)

·       Private bedroom in shared housing for duration of internship

·       Option to eat food prepared for program during the week, and basic staples provided for weekends

·       $300 health stipend

·       Financial assistance towards tuition fees for an AEOE Conference (check out: aeoe.org)

To Apply:

·       Visit our website and complete our on-line application form: www.foothillhorizons.com 

·       Contact: Diann Rastetter            Office: 209-532-6673              Deadline to apply: Open until filled