Conservation Education Naturalist Intern

Join the International Crane Foundation (ICF) as a Conservation Education Naturalist Intern and become a vital part of our renowned conservation effort to save the world’s cranes and their habitats. In this role, you will actively engage with visitors, developing and delivering educational and interpretive programs to support our mission. You will be a valued member of the experienced team within our Conservation Education Department. Over the past 50 years, ICF has evolved from the dream of two college students into a global force for crane conservation.  

What is it like to work at ICF? At ICF, you will be part of a passionate and dedicated team committed to our mission. You will find dedication in all levels of the organization from staff and volunteers to our Board Members. You will play a critical role in fulfilling our mission across the U.S. and within our partner countries around the world. 

Position Summary: 

Share your passion and enthusiasm for nature and conservation as you engage with visitors at the International Crane Foundation. Each year, the Conservation Education Department (CED) staff annually interacts with over 25,000 guests through guided programs, outreach events, and virtual programs in support of the International Crane Foundation’s global mission. Our newly renovated Cranes of the World Exhibits highlight our guests experience where they learn about cranes and our work to save this endangered family of birds.  

Conservation Education Naturalist Interns are trained in program development, delivery, and evaluation. These programs cater to diverse audiences, from K-12 students to adults, with a specific focus on inspiring and instilling empathy for cranes and conservation, especially within the younger generation. You will sharpen your public speaking and presentation skills to effectively communicate with these audiences and achieve meaningful conservation impact.  

Each CED Intern creates a main project that is beneficial to ICF and an asset for the Intern’s portfolio. Recent projects have included videos, interpretive signage, interactive educational resources, and accessibility resources for guests.  

In addition, CED Interns attend burn school and will have opportunities to assist with prescribed burns and native habitat restoration. CED Interns will have some valuable opportunities to work with our habitat restoration and aviculture staff at the International Crane Foundation. This internship is a platform for professional growth through personal interpretive program development, as well as non-personal conservation resource development. 

This position spans from March to November 2024, offering a monthly compensation of $1,500 plus free housing at our on-site International Guest House in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Applicants available for the full term of the position will be given preference. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Develop and lead daily interpretive tours on our site for K-12 schools, community organizations, private groups, and the public. This involves planning, designing, and evaluating interpretive programs and written materials. Tours are given in all weather conditions.
• Assist in the completion of projects related to the goals, work plan, and objectives of the Conservation Education Department (e.g., help design and develop self-guided written or audio media; assist with writing, filming, and editing short films about ICF’s work; create, test, and evaluate interpretive programs; assist with ICF’s volunteer program; or research policy-related projects and initiatives, etc.)
• Assist with group tour scheduling using volunteer management software.
• Plan, organize, promote, and execute at least one onsite event (Mother’s Day, Endangered Species Day, Cranes of the World Festival, Good Neighbor Day, etc.).
• Provide outreach programs for local schools, civic groups, housing facilities, parks, and festivals.
• Conduct virtual outreach programming for groups.

Core Competencies: 

• Excellent verbal communication skills, including speaking clearly and persuasively to individuals and groups; listening effectively; responding well to questions.
• Ability to establish project plans, regularly monitor and track progress on work projects, and ensure appropriate communications with project partners.
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize work and to work with others to meet designated deadlines and desired results.
• Attention to detail and thoroughness.
• Work as a constructive member of a team, including the free sharing of information and technical expertise as needed.
• Demonstrate respect and sensitivity for others; inspire trust; and work with integrity and ethically.
• Quickly, effectively, and continually adapt to changes in work environment and duties, processes, and technologies.

Qualifications Required: 

• 2 years of college preferred but not required. Background in the fields of interpretation, environmental education, conservation biology, ornithology, education, digital marketing, graphic design, film/documentary production, and other related fields given preference.
• Excellent oral communication skills, including communicating conservation messages to various audiences, from individuals to lecture halls, and across online platforms.
• Attention to detail regarding the quality of their own and others’ work, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of large and small projects and products.
• A valid driver’s license (USA or International) and an acceptable driving record are required.
• All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States when they apply.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Background or strong interest relating to environmental education, interpretation, science communication, or wildlife conservation preferred.
• Previous outreach experience.
• Proficiency with basic Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and PowerPoint.
• Experience working with volunteers to achieve desired results; train and encourage skill development; access and provide feedback on individual performance.
• Exceptional public speaking skills and the ability to teach diverse audiences in a non-formal setting.

Physical Abilities and Work Environment: 

The physical abilities and work environment characteristics described below are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Ability to operate computer and phones.
• Ability to communicate with fellow staff and donors. Communication will include both one-to-one communication, small, and large group communication.
• Occasionally required to lift and move items up to 20 pounds.

Work Environment: 

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.