Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Good parks, open space and program services contribute to economic development by fostering economic benefits and promoting tourism.

These eight core values guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community.
•Innovation   •Excellence   •Equity   •Inclusiveness   •Sustainability   •Accountability   •Safety   •Fun

The Tacoma Nature Center is dedicated to enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the natural world through education and recreation.

INTERN INFORMATION
As an Education Naturalist Intern you will gain experience and insight from tenured professionals with a range of backgrounds and experience. In this critical position, you will be provided opportunities to design, plan, and facilitate an integrative environmental education program with hands-on experience educating youth ages 6-12 on native Pacific Northwest plant and wildlife species.  Intern will learn about and promote conservation practices.  Intern will assist with day camp operations.

This internship is considered training for the benefit of the student. You will walk away with a tangible deliverable to showcase your professional experience at Metro Parks Tacoma.

Primary Projects
Projects include assisting in the planning and facilitation of environmental education day camp, leading hikes and activities focused in conservation and Pacific Northwest natural history, taking photos, preparing camp photo presentations, preparing camp materials, and other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Gain hands-on experience with environmental education curriculum design and facilitation
• Shadowing experiences with knowledgeable environmental educators
• Opportunity to gain knowledge about Pacific Northwest natural history
• Flexibility to tailor experience to personal/professional goals of intern

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing
• Able to work in an outdoor environment for extended periods of time; enjoy connecting with nature
• Enjoy working with children and youth
• Must be proficient in Microsoft software applications
• Currently enrolled in an accredited two or four-year college or university with course work in a related field.
• Previous environmental experience is desirable, but is not required.
• Must be at least 19 years of age and pass a background check.

Length of Internship
Minimum requirement of 320 hours and up to 360 hours available between June 28th and August 27th.

The internship will extend for the minimum length of time that is required by the educational institution to meet graduation standards. The student is not entitled to a job at the conclusion of the training period.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between Metro Parks Tacoma and intern and is subject to change by the District as the needs of the District and requirements of the job change.