Summer Camp Field Assistant Intern

~ Thorne Nature Experience, formerly the Thorne Ecological Institute, is a non-profit organization that is committed to building Earth stewardship by connecting youth to nature through joyful, hands-on, place-based environmental education experiences. ~

Thorne believes in discovery, exploration, and connection to the natural world. Founded in 1954, Thorne has a rich history and has reached more than 200,000 children and adults through its three programs: In-School Programs, Summer Camp Programs, and the BVSD 4th Grade Field Trip Program. 

Position Overview

Thorne is seeking enthusiastic and environmentally-aware Field Assistant Interns for a paid internship at its Summer Camp program in Boulder.

The Thorne Summer Camp Field Assistant Intern provides program support for Thorne Summer Camp Instructors and Thorne Staff, contributing to our mission of connecting youth to nature through joyful, hands-on, place-based environmental education experiences.

The Field Assistant will spend the majority of their time in the field, and act as the go-to person whenever support is needed. The Field Assistant also assists in overnight camps up to 4 times during the summer.

Responsibilities 

• Assist in the oversight of Thorne Summer Camp program in the field, ensuring safety of all participants, students, and teachers
• Support Thorne Summer Camp Instructors in the field with supplies, added supervision, and emergency transportation
• Act as a "go to" person for Instructors during their time in the field, circulating between and checking in with Thorne "Camp Experience" groups
• Participate in the drop off and pick up protocol for Thorne Summer Camp- assisting parents, Instructors, and Education Programs Director
• Act as a role model for all Instructors, participants, and Teaching Assistants, illustrating appropriate behavior and environmental ethics
• Encourage a joyful, safe, meaningful outdoor experience for participants.
• Attend Mandatory Thorne Summer Camp Instructor training on May 16, 2015 and site specific training on May 28, 2015- Intern must attend a total of 15 hours of professional development training as required by the Colorado Department of Social Services child care licensing standards (Thorne Instructor trainings are included)
• Complete all required forms and submit all required information needed by Thorne for compliance with Colorado Department of Social Services child care licensing standards
• Support Thorne Summer Camp Instructors in overnight camps up to 4 times in the summer - having a mid to high clearance vehicle is preferred 

Qualifications  

Desired Skills and Abilities: 

• Strong communication skills with adults and children
• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally
• Experience relating to and communicating with diverse audiences, especially Mexican
• American participants and families preferred
• People of Color encouraged to apply
• Bi-lingual in Spanish and English encouraged to apply

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Must be 18 or older
• A minimum of 480 hours of full time or equivalent part-time satisfactory and verifiable experience with school-age children is preferred
• Preference for those with or working on a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Education,
• Environmental Studies, Biology, Geology, Education, or related field
• Background check and fingerprints submitted and cleared by the Colorado Department of
• Human Services (Thorne helps and pays for this)
• Current CPR, First Aid, and Universal Precautions certifications (Thorne holds and pays for trainings)
• Medication Administration Certification and Delegation by Thorne's nurse (Thorne holds and pays for trainings) 

To Apply 

• First, click here to fill out an online application.
• Then click below: "Apply Now Online" to email a cover letter indicating preferred teaching site (Boulder or Littleton) and position title together with a resume.
• You can also mail to: 

Thorne Nature Experience Attn: Erin Saunders, Education Programs Director
P.O. Box 19107
Boulder, CO 80308 

• Please no phone inquiries. Additional information available at our website.
• Click here to ask Erin Saunders any questions regarding the position. You'll be  esponded to within 5 business days.