Environmental Education Intern at Hidden Oaks Nature Center

The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is seeking an Environmental Education Intern at Hidden Oaks Nature Center (HONC) to be a part of one of the most highly regarded park systems in the country. Hidden Oaks Nature Center is nestled inside the 52-acre Annandale District Park and provides programming for a diverse population. This summer we’ll be holding 26 individual camps with hundreds of young campers. 

Description: Develop your environmental education skills and gain practical experience in non-traditional, outdoor education: support Hidden Oaks Nature Center’s nature-based programming by providing assistance with summer camps and other programs. Under the supervision of the camp leader, the intern will assist with classroom management and the implementation of indoor and outdoor camp activities including lessons, nature exploration, science experiments, crafts, and games. The intern will have the opportunity to develop and implement environmental education activities related to specific weekly camp topics, using the resources of the nature center and surrounding park. The intern will also help prepare materials and supplies for upcoming camps and other programs. As Hidden Oaks is in the process of developing an Interpretive Plan, the intern may provide input including data and evaluation of program themes and park interpretive zones for the Plan.

Primary duties and responsibilities: 

• Help provide nature-based programming for campers preschool to age 12.
• Coordinate with camp leaders to develop and prepare activities (e.g., crafts, games, nature walks and exploration activities, experiments, etc.)
• Assist with other environmental education programs throughout the summer for families and various-age audiences.
• Provide input for HONC Interpretive Plan development.
• Write an article for FCPA social media and HONC newsletter describing the summer internship.

Skill development/learning outcomes: environmental education planning and implementation; nature-based interpretive programming; classroom management; volunteer management; customer service; exhibit animal handling; resume building.

Compensation: Interns will be temporary, part-time employees of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Compensation is $16.50- $20 per hour, depending on prior experience, for up to 440 hours. May through August. Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday with potentially some weekends and evenings (telework not an option.)

Start Date: May (No later than May 23). End Date: August (No later than September 4).

Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelors or master’s program in education, environmental education, environmental science, life sciences, or other related field. Strong organizational abilities and ability to work independently. Strong verbal and written communication skills in English. Microsoft Office skills including Word and Excel. Ability to do moderate lifting (up to 20lbs), walking and hiking on rough unpaved, or off-trail surfaces. Ability to stand or sit for long periods to conduct field work or to perform office tasks. Work location 7701 Royce Street, Annandale, VA. Must enjoy working with children!

Preferred Skills and Qualifications: Experience in working with diverse populations and within a diverse team. Experience in preschool or elementary school-age education and/or outdoor nature education. Multi-lingual. National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide certification or higher.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

To apply: Send your resume to FCPAInternships@fairfaxcounty.gov. 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

• The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.  

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.