Jobs and Careers

Seasonal Education Intern- Cradle of Forestry

Pisgah Forest, NC, United StatesinternshipVerifiedPosted 20 Feb 2025

About the role

About the Opportunity:

Seasonal Education Intern
Cradle of Forestry Pisgah Forest, NC
August 2025-October 2025*

FIND Outdoors is offering an exciting Seasonal Education Internship at the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah Forest, NC. This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental education, outdoor interpretation, and visitor engagement in a beautiful natural setting. You will work with the education team to deliver educational programs about forest ecology, conservation, natural history, and the legacy of the Cradle of Forestry. This role reports to the Chief Education Officer.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead and facilitate educational programs and interpretive activities for participants of all ages and group sizes, both indoors and outdoors.
Prepare and guide groups on trails, both paved and natural, using the surrounding forest as a classroom to achieve educational goals.
Facilitate lessons and activities in the Citizen Science Lab and maintain interactive exhibits and displays.
Assist with the maintenance and care of the Cradle's collections, gardens, and other educational materials.
Maintain and clean interactive exhibits, conduct data collection, and ensure displays are up to date in all program areas.
Utilize and distribute Natural Inquirer educational materials.
Provide general customer service and information to visitors, serving as a positive representative of FIND Outdoors.
Collaborate with the Cradle Seasonal Educator, Site Manager and volunteers to ensure effective communication and program execution.
Assist in hosting special events and/or activities at the Cradle.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Comfortable working with diverse groups of all ages and delivering engaging educational experiences.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to create lesson plans, lead public talks, and share program updates on social media.
Physical ability to walk up to four miles daily and lift up to 20 pounds.
Knowledge of ecosystems, forest ecology, and local wildlife is a plus.
Professional and friendly interaction with the public, ensuring a positive image for FIND Outdoors.
Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and varying hours, especially during special events such as the Blue Ghost Firefly Tours, which may require evening or weekend shifts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

A combination of academic studies and practical experience in environmental education, conservation, or related fields.
Experience in public speaking or leading groups, with a focus on education or interpretation.
Ability to collaborate effectively with other team members and work independently when required.
A passion for environmental education, community engagement, and outdoor recreation.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Gain valuable experience in designing, implementing, and facilitating educational programming.
Develop skills in public speaking, group management, and community outreach.
Deepen your knowledge of forest ecology, conservation, flora and fauna.
Experience working in a dynamic, team-oriented environment with the opportunity for hands-on learning and professional development.

INTERNSHIP STRUCTURE*:

Duration: August-October 2025*
Work Schedule: 20-40 hours/weekly, with some evening and weekend shifts required during special events. Typical schedule will be Friday through Sunday, with some flexibility depending on program needs.
Lodging: On-site lodging is available at the Cradle of Forestry for the duration of the internship if needed.