Science Education Apprenticeship

Explore Minnesota’s Natural Diversity. Grow as a Science Educator. Gain Research Skills. As an inaugural Science Education Apprentice at one of the world’s most famous ecological research stations, you will have the chance to be a teacher, community leader, education researcher, and lifelong learner!

Overview

Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve is a University of Minnesota ecological research station in central Minnesota (East Bethel) with natural habitats that represent the entire state. There is no place of comparable biological diversity so close to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The people of Cedar Creek are dedicated to understanding our planet’s ecosystems and how they are changing under human pressures. Through research, conservation, and education, Cedar Creek bridges the gaps between science, community, and government. 

Education at Cedar Creek involves learners of all ages; from elementary students through adult, public school through university, backyard gardeners through international scientists. With ecology now one of the essential applied sciences of our time, we are capitalizing on Cedar Creek’s scientific standing and embracing new roles at state and local levels. Through our K-12 programs, thousands of students come to Cedar Creek annually to learn ecology through hands-on field investigations, and teachers and educators benefit from on-site professional development workshops. The public can take advantage of tours of the many unique natural areas in Cedar Creek and the internationally-renowned research sites focusing on plant biodiversity and the effect of global change on plant communities, as well as participate directly in research through our participatory science projects. We work closely with partners in urban areas, Indigenous educators and knowledge keepers, and state and local agencies to ensure that our programs consider the pressing environmental issues of our times through a variety of lenses.

Summary of Position:

The Science Education Apprenticeship program is a stipend-based training opporutnity that supports recent college graduates in exploring environmental education, science education, ecological and education research, and community engagement techniques. Details about the opportunity and answers to frequently asked questions are available on our website. The apprentices are hired, trained and supervised by the Education and Outreach Coordinator at Cedar Creek, and work as part of a team whose members include academic researchers, retired teachers, volunteers, and fellow early-career professionals. The program includes three broad areas for growth and development within the science education field, and connected to the research and mission of Cedar Creek: 

33%: K-12 Programs

Apprentices provide hands-on field ecology investigations to groups of students in grades K-12 who come to Cedar Creek on class field trips, and to classrooms of K-5 students offsite at local schools. They are trained to provide a safe, enjoyable learning environment for students and teachers, to demonstrate proper use of tools and equipment in investigations, and to deliver accurate and engaging content.

33%: Community Engagement 

Apprentices create, implement, and assess community programs and outreach opportunities at Cedar Creek. They learn about the broader community and consider ways to connect through organizing and leading community events, guided hikes, family programs, and more. They also work with other team members to coordinate and lead volunteer opportunities. 

33%: Education Research and Professional Development

Apprentices gain experience in education research and explore how to evaluate programs, understand community needs, and more. They have the opportunity to attend national and state conferences and learn more about the world of environmental and science education, disciplinary-based education research, and more. Other certifications provided through the apprenticeship include First Aid and CPR Training and MN Master Naturalist. 

Essential Qualifications: 

• Able to commit to working August 18th, 2025 through August 14th, 2026
• Reliable way to be physically present at Cedar Creek (East Bethel, MN) on a daily basis (access to transportation or ability to live onsite)
• Interest in or experience working with youth in grades K-12
• Interest in or experience delivering science content to the general public
• Completion of at least 4 credit hours of natural science courses like biology, chemistry, ecology, natural resources, etc. by start date (please provide unofficial or official transcript)
• Comfortable in water and able to lead groups on hikes of up to 3 miles
• Comfort in outdoor settings for long periods of time in a variety of weather conditions and in proximity to insects, reptiles and other wildlife.
• High level of self-motivation and enthusiasm
• Willingness to try and learn new things
• Willingness to work some evenings and weekends
• Ability to pass a background check

 Preferred Qualifications: 

• Background and/or degree in ecology, conservation biology, science education, or K-12 education
• Experience leading and managing groups of up to 30 students indoors and outdoors, in inclement weather, and in sensitive research areas
• Related experience as a naturalist, interpreter, camp counselor, trip leader, or other leadership roles
• Public speaking experience
• Ability to live onsite in shared housing
• Valid US driver’s license and/or reliable access to personal transportation

To apply, review the content on our website, then complete the application form (which includes a series of questions about your motivation, experience, and goals as well as a CV/resume, transcript, and three references).

Compensation Information

This program is designed as an apprenticeship or training position rather than as hourly work. Apprentices are expected to complete a minimum of 1,800 hours of work over the 12-month apprenticeship. There are many ways to structure these hours to allow for time off, flexibility in schedules, etc. (e.g., around 50 weeks at 36 hours/week, or around 45 weeks of 40 hours/week) while meeting this minimum.

The apprenticeship is paid as a monthly stipend (similar to other environmental training programs with other nature centers, state agencies, etc) with the option to either live onsite or receive the equivalent of onsite rent ($300/month) as a living subsidy. 

• $1,325/month stipend, paid monthly
• Free housing onsite OR a $300/month living subsidy
• Paid CPR and first aid training, discounts on outdoor gear and equipment, registration for at least one relevant local conference, and access to Cedar Creek’s canoes, bikes, snowshoes, and other equipment