Summer Naturalist Intern 2026

Naturalist Interns conduct nature programs and elevate guest experience through nature interpretations. They also become primary caregivers of our animal ambassadors with supervision from the head and assistant naturalist. He or she must demonstrate excellent communication, follow-up and customer services skills. This internship is able to fulfill part of the graduation requirements of students currently enrolled in an accredited university (for credit hours). The position is full-time, seasonal and includes weekends and holidays.  

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Animal husbandry and exhibit maintenance:
• Interns are responsible for the daily/weekly/monthly animal care under the supervision of the head naturalist.
• Regular enclosure maintenance.
• Monitoring temperature and humidity levels.
• Feeding and handling snakes, turtles and alligators daily.
• Water quality testing and water changes.
• Lead resort guests and members on nature programs and answer all questions in a professional manner. Some of these programs include:
• Kayaking Tours, Birding, Gatorology, Beach Walks, etc.
• Naturalist Interns are expected to have a solid base of information about barrier island ecology, this foundation will be provided during training and is not required for employment.
• Naturalists and Recreation staff/interns both work out of the Nature Center.
• Naturalists will be expected to assist recreation staff with, special events, select recreation programs, and Camp Fripp programs.

Other 

• Responsible for educating guests and providing quality customer service including answering phone calls, taking reservations for programs and completing sales transactions.
• Communicate and cooperate with all customers, vendors, and owners in a professional, courteous manner
• Exhibit organizational skills and professional manners with fellow staff members, managers, and resort employees.
• Actively listen and appropriately respond to customer inquiries and complaints, always remaining composed and courteous showing genuine empathy and sincerity.
• Follow established policies and procedures by monitoring and ensuring compliance with organizational standards and operational processes.
• Practice proper safety techniques in accordance with resort, property, and departmental policies, procedures, and standards.
• Identify areas for improvement and offer suggestions to improve efficiency, profitability, and productivity.
• Perform other duties as assigned or as necessary.

Skills and Qualifications 

• In progress or completed bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries biology, conservation, zoology, environmental education or related major preferred.
• Customer service experience is preferred.
• Experience handling reptiles is a plus.
• CPR and First-Aid certified is preferred.
• Ability to organize, plan, prioritize and multi-task with integrity and a positive, team-work attitude.
• Shows a professional, cooperative demeanor with a good sense of humor.
• Aptitude in Microsoft Office programs, general computer use, and app skills recommended.
• Required to work a 40-hour week, flexible schedule that will include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• May effectively read, write, and speak English.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, personal smart phone, criminal background check, and drug screening required.

Physical Requirements 

• This position requires the ability to work in tight spaces, bend, sit and/or stand and to lift to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to perform simple grasping, fine manipulation, and repetitive hand & arm movements, squeezing and overhead reaching.
• Must be able to go up and down numerous steps, bend, push, stoop, lift objects, squat, crawl, kneel, push, pull, and walk on uneven surfaces.
• Must be able to walk and drive outside in a variety of weather conditions (rain, wind, heat, humidity).
• Must be able to swim.

Compensation & Benefits 

Compensation is $10.50 per hour.  Staff housing is provided on site with a $100.00 housing deposit due upfront and $100 housing payment deducted from pay each bi-weekly pay period.  Enjoy full access to resort amenities including restaurants, fitness center, pools, golf, tennis, volleyball, and basketball.  

Information 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, or efforts associated with this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship. 

Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or due to pregnancy.