Environmental Educator AmeriCorps Member

Northern Arizona University’s Center for Service and Volunteerism is currently recruiting for two Environmental Educator AmeriCorps members to be placed at Camp Colton & The Nature Conservancy in the Flagstaff area for a late spring through summer (4/20 – 7/31) internship. The Environmental Literacy Corps (ELC) AmeriCorps program addresses environmental issues across Arizona and helps build resilience in communities throughout the state through education, outreach, and volunteer coordination projects. 

Camp Colton aims to cultivate exceptional outdoor learning experiences that instill the value of being self-sufficient young people and inspire growth and discovery. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) operates in 81 countries and all 50 states. At Hart Prairie Preserve these members will integrate with this global mission as they learn interpretative skills and lead nature programs.  

Position Title: Environmental Educator AmeriCorps Member (2 positions available)  

Slot Type:  300 total hours

                  20 hours per week for 16 total weeks

                  4/20/26 to 7/31/26

Reports To: Jackson Carranco & Bob Hoffa Location: Camp Colton & Hart Prairie Preserve 

While at Camp Colton, the primary purpose of this position will be to serve alongside science educators in support of the design and implementation of student-driven outdoor learning projects in and around Hart Prairie. By working together in the field, playing games, sharing meals, and having fun with campers, the AmeriCorps member will develop relationships that model positive adult mentor-mentee relationships for AZ youth.   

While working at Hart Prairie Preserve, members will develop all aspects of the nature walk program. Under the guidance of the preserve manager, members will become the preserve’s primary interpretive naturalists leading groups and individuals on programs they helped to design.  

Major Responsibilities and Duties:  

WHILE AT CAMP COLTON: 

• Collaborate with science teachers, stem experts, and Camp Colton staff to design and implement one research project with your research topic team.
  • There are four teams (hydrology, soil ecology, fire ecology, & native organisms).
• Collaborate with your team and camp admin regarding how best to make use of genuine data-collection tools and come up with strategies and locations that will best inform your team’s selected research focus.
• Navigate & drive FUSD vehicles (mini-buses or vans) to research areas in and around Hart Prairie.
• Ensure Camp Colton campers have an exceptional week by connecting with campers individually and meeting their needs (checking gear out to campers, assisting during mealtimes, being watchful and thoughtful during free times, introducing games and activities to campers and enjoying them together, etc.).
• Support the overall functionality of Camp Colton and contribute to a culture of mutual support, positivity, and quality outdoor educational experience for students, teachers, staff, and visitors.
• NOTE: in addition to training in advance in late April, environmental educators are expected to be at camp during the six programming weeks: May 4-8, 11-14, 18-21; June 21-26; July 6-10, 13-17 (typically Monday through Thursday, 7:30am – 4:30pm; some variance). Some flexibility is possible with TNC scheduling and with respect to individual needs.

WHILE AT HART PRAIRIE PRESERVE: Under the guidance of the preserve manager or other TNC staff, members will be responsible for: 

• Updating interpretive and training materials.
• Maintaining nature trails and signage.
• Leading weekly nature walks for groups and individuals.
• Training volunteers on leading nature walks.
• Assist with other public programming such as tours and guest speakers
• Work at the preserve is primarily Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings to lead interpretative walks with guests.

 Member Benefits:  

• ​​Bi-weekly pre-tax living stipend while in service: $600.00
• ​Segal AmeriCorps Education award after successfully completing service: $1,565.08
• ​Student loan forbearance and interest repayment for qualifying federal student loans
• ​Professional development opportunities and training
• ​This position will have access to occasional overnight stays in one of the Hart Prairie Preserve’s well maintained and cozy historic log cabins.
  • ​There is good cell phone coverage throughout the area and wi-fi is available at the main lodge that provides a beautiful workspace.
  • ​Commercial kitchen and other amenities that can be used when not occupied by guests
• ​Members will have the option to stay overnight at Camp Colton during programming weeks as desired.
• ​Meals and snacks, with any necessary dietary accommodation, are provided at Camp Colton when camp is in session.​

Qualifications: 

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 18 years of age or older
• Completion one or more years of study in a field of environmental science, resource management, education, or a related discipline
• Passion for science and the natural world
• Enjoy working with youth and adults in an outdoor setting
• Motivated, enthusiastic, flexible, team-oriented, and accountable
• Ability to independently complete tasks within given timelines
• Ability to hike three miles a day in variable weather conditions, on uneven ground, and in the hot summer sun at 8500’ elevation
• Ability to obtain current fingerprint clearance card (can obtain when hired)
• Ability to pass background checks
• Ability to complete TNC’s youth safety training
• Valid driver’s license and clean 3-year motor vehicle record

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Knowledge or special interest in hydrology, soil ecology, fire ecology, native organisms, or southwestern natural history
• Experience working with middle school students
• Experience writing or editing interpretive materials
• Experience using hand tools