The City of Richfield’s Wood Lake Nature Center is a 150-acre natural area dedicated to environmental education, wildlife conservation and observation, and outdoor recreation. This unique natural oasis is centrally located in the Twin Cities metro area. Visitors can experience three distinct habitats including a cattail marsh, mixed lowland forest, and a restored prairie along hiking trails and boardwalks. Wood Lake’s hands-on Interpretive Center includes educational exhibits, live animal displays, and a large auditorium for programming. Being the first municipal nature center in Minnesota, Wood Lake has a long-standing tradition for quality educational programs, opportunities for self-guided natural experiences, and recreational opportunities.

Naturalist Interns are offered the opportunity to learn and practice the skills required when pursuing a career in environmental education. You will become a part of a dynamic work environment receiving training from professional naturalists. There will be opportunities to learn teaching methods, assist in educational programs with students and the general public, help with animal care, resource management, special event planning, and aiding in ongoing projects. All interns will also complete a project of their interest that will be used at Wood Lake Nature Center.

Interns will receive quality training that will ready them for a career in environmental education. Opportunities exist to gain skills in teaching, animal care, and resource management. Academic credits are optional to college students. No intern housing is available. Position is unpaid.

Wood Lake Nature Center is looking for students that are currently enrolled in college or college graduates that are interested in pursuing a professional career in environmental education. Must have a strong desire to work with diverse audiences in an outdoor setting, general knowledge of natural history, possess good oral and written communication skills, interest in the environment and working with community based organizations, and be self-motivated. Hours average 20-30/week.

Winter/Spring semester starts in January and goes through mid-May. Exact start and end dates are flexible. Internships are offered year-round on a semester basis.

To apply:

Please send a cover letter and resume with 3 references to Amy Markle, Internship Coordinator, via email or postal mail. Please email or call with any questions.