Educational Programs Intern-Delaware Seashore State Park

Spend your summer at the beach while connecting people to our incredible coastal heritage and environment! The Educational Programs Intern will assist with a variety of public, private, and school programs such as kayaking tours, lantern tours, crabbing, hiking, historical reenactments, and more. It is expected that the intern will be able to lead at least one of these programs by the end of the term of service. An ideal candidate enjoys sharing a love of nature with others, is creative, considerate, and willing to work with our team to provide the best possible experience for park visitors. This internship provides nature-based interpretive experience and public speaking practice as well as leadership skills, and is a great stepping-stone for those looking to work in parks, museums, or other educational institutions. The position requires working both indoors and outdoors, on weekends, and on some evenings.

Responsibilities

• Work as part of a team of naturalists to provide quality educational programs on cultural and natural resources 
• Be a front-line representative of Delaware State Parks - greet nature center guests, table at events, and rove throughout campground and/or park
• Interact and create a safe and enjoyable environment for all park visitors
• Abide by all Delaware State Parks safety regulations
• Coordinate with all park staff for use of equipment, planning of programs, and working special events
• Assist in developing, leading, and evaluating environmental education programs for a wide variety of audiences such as pre-school, elementary, middle, high school, youth groups, special needs groups, and the general public
• Work as a team to keep nature center and all equipment clean and presentable, following all cleaning safety protocols
• Other duties as assigned

Required Skills

• Appreciation and understanding of the natural environment
• Must be able to demonstrate responsibility, dependability, and good communication skills
• Must keep a positive attitude and have fun in a fast paced, sometimes hectic environment
• Preference given to candidates with a valid driver’s license, experience conducting canoeing, hiking or other outdoor activities, knowledge of surrounding environment/ecology
• Must be able to work in varied weather conditions for up to 8 hours
• Ability to create enjoyable hands-on activities and games for a variety of age groups
• Able to communicate effectively with a diverse public and speak publicly in front of groups or audiences
• Professional appearance and demeanor, responsible and trustworthy
• Pleasant and personable, enjoys people, good customer service skills
• Works well independently or as a cooperative, contributory team member
• Ability to present programs as instructed by Park Interpreter, Educator or Nature Center Manager
• Able to assist with both indoor and outdoor programs
• Comfortable working around boats/water; ability to pass a canoe/kayak safety course that includes a swim test - not applicable at all sites
• Performs duties in compliance with Division and Park Customer Service Guidelines and Safety Guidelines
• Ability to lift 50 pounds