Intern - Naturalist (Summer)

About the role

Summer (May – August) Naturalist Intern with the Department of Game, Fish & Parks at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls. Reports to Hiring Manager Sandy Richter. This is a fun, fast‑paced position that provides valuable teaching experience in an informal setting, and training is provided.

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist education staff with outdoor skills programming (fishing, camping, hunting) and nature‑based South Dakota heritage programs.
• Serve community, school, and group programs ranging from preschool to adult classes.
• Assist with programs developed by program coordinators or volunteer instructors.
• Develop future programs for the public.
• Work at the information desk to meet programming and customer service needs.

Requirements

• Must be a current part‑time or full‑time student (minimum 6 credit hours) in the upcoming semester or the immediately preceding semester.
• Enrolled at a college, university, or technical institute at time of application.
• By the start of the internship, have completed one year (≈ nine months) of chosen program.

Qualifications

• Preference given to applicants with junior/senior standing, South Dakota residents, and students of South Dakota institutions.
• Applicants with fishing, hunting, and other outdoor skills and experience will be given preference.

Skills

• Enjoy working with people of all ages.
• Comfortable spending time outdoors.
• Ability to assist in teaching informal outdoor education programs.

Pay

Minimum salary: $19.09 per hour.

Schedule

Summer session (May – August).