Summer Naturalist

Summary

Wolf Ridge Summer Naturalists are a crucial part of running a meaningful summer by developing curriculum, facilitating outdoor learning, and building community for Wolf Ridge guests. Wolf Ridge naturalists also assist with various behind the scenes functions that make programs happen. Wolf Ridge Summer runs from June 16-August 18, 2024.

General Duties of a Summer Naturalist

• Serve as role model for students and peers: display maturity, responsibility, flexibility, enthusiasm, and sound judgment
• Work with the Wolf Ridge team to prepare, facilitate, and follow up on programming
• Teach Wolf Ridge classes to audiences of all ages and backgrounds
• Expectation is that classes are of high quality that require preparation time. Program topics follow an experiential learning model and cover a range of topics: adventure, sustainability, ecology, and cultural history.
• Serve as a liaison to visiting groups on behalf of Wolf Ridge by being available for questions and helping the group with their needs
• Assist in the organizational and structural support that help programs run smoothly i.e. food prep, farm tasks, driving, cleaning, and other duties as assigned
• Participate in staff training and orientation
• Be flexible to accommodate the needs of different programs

Critical Skills and Experiences

• Required:
• First Aid, CPR prior to employment start date
• Ability to work well on a team
• Ability to accept feedback gracefully and integrate it
• Strong communication skills and ability to navigate conflict
• Willingness to learn about the interconnected nature of the North Woods ecosystem
• Ability to think critically and reflect on teaching practices
• Comfort with running and assisting adventure high ropes courses and rock climbing
• Understand and adhere to all Wolf Ridge policies

Work Schedule

• Work week consists of 10-14 half days a week
• Half days may also include evening and weekend time slots
• Time off is scheduled during the work week
• for a total 3 days every two weeks

Compensation

• Lodging is provided
• Meals are available in the dining hall when open
• In addition to lodging and food, pay is $330/week