Naturalist Teacher Internship

Position Description

Naturalist Interns teach elementary students about the natural sciences during multi‑day residential programs. Students are provided with experience‑based connections to nature while cultivating community and personal growth. Our curriculum is aligned with Ohio Education Standards and taught on the trails of Glen Helen Nature Preserve. Naturalist Interns have the freedom to develop lesson plans to support their individual teaching style and passions.

We are committed to fostering lifelong learning at the Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center, therefore ongoing training, professional development, and mentorship are provided. This internship provides real‑world experience in preparation for employment as a naturalist, educator, or science communicator of any kind. Interns are provided housing amidst the beautiful 1,000‑acre Glen Helen Nature Preserve, which is within walking distance of the vibrant Village of Yellow Springs.

Position Reports To
: OEC Education Manager

Location
:
Yellow Springs, Ohio

Start Date
:
August 19, 2026

End Date
:
May 7, 2027

Schedule
:
Full‑time, Monday‑Friday

NOTICE
:
Due to the nature of outdoor education, the Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center will be closed to all programming December 14, 2026 – January 8, 2027. Naturalist Teacher Interns will be furloughed for this duration but permitted to remain in staff housing.

• Design and deliver standards‑aligned environmental education experiences for a diverse population of students in our multi‑day residential and day programs
• Role model positive community engagement and environmentally conscious behaviors
• Ensure the safety and well‑being of program participants and OEC team members using sound judgment and applying safety protocols
• Assist in the maintenance of all program supplies, equipment, and facilities
• Comply with all Glen Helen Association policies and represent the OEC in a professional manner at all times
• Participate in regular trainings, workshops, and staff meetings
• Share in the general daily and weekly responsibilities at the OEC

• Minimum two years of undergraduate course work OR associate’s degree OR a combo of relevant experience
• Demonstrate a respect and affinity for children and a passion for the environment
• Commitment to equity and inclusion
• Willing to live in community and work closely as a team
• Willing to be mentored and receive feedback
• Applicants must be able to commit to the full duration of the program
• Regularly stand for long periods of time and walk up to 5 miles per day on uneven terrain, while carrying a 25‑lb backpack in all weather conditions
• Verbally communicate and have visual abilities to deliver programs safely
• Pass criminal background check and fingerprinting to be completed during training
• Applicants must successfully complete First Aid, CPR, and AED training before start date

To qualify for the Naturalist Internship program, an individual must be able to perform each primary responsibility. The Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center aims to make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform primary responsibilities. If you are interested in and passionate about our work, please do consider applying.

• $400 weekly stipend, paid bi‑weekly
• Training to handle and teach with a box turtle, snake, and raptor
• Continuous mentoring from OEC Lead Naturalist staff
• Ongoing professional development experiences include Project Learning Tree certification, learning natural science curriculum, lesson planning, pedagogy, teaching techniques, visiting local nature centers and parks, resume building, networking, and much more
• Housing (no fee): bedroom, shared bathroom, kitchen, common space, and laundry
• 10‑15 meals provided weekly, meeting dietary allergies and restrictions
• Complimentary membership at Antioch College Wellness Center
• Position may qualify for academic internship or co‑op credit