Join a dedicated staff that is committed to providing both quality outdoor education for our guests as well as providing high quality training for our Naturalist Residents. As a Resident you will be mentored and trained to teach 4th-6th grade students in science concepts, cultural history, team building, low ropes elements, and learn how to facilitate our high ropes course. This position involves leading small and large groups of students in day classes, evening classes and field trips. (No overnight supervision of students is required.) All in a beautiful outdoor setting in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Training continues throughout the school year as you learn more of our classes, natural history, interpretation, group management and receive job search counseling. For those interested, there is the option to learn how to care for and handle non-releasable raptors at our Raptor Center. 

Qualifications

College degree in the field of science, education, outdoor recreation, or related field. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is acceptable. Previous experience working with children is preferred. Work with music or performance is beneficial. Valid driver’s license, clear fingerprints and background check, and negative TB test. First Aid Certification and CPR/AED Certification are required. WFA/WFR Certification beneficial, but not required. Ability to hike up to five miles per day in all weather conditions and lift between 10-50 pounds. Ability and willingness to live responsibly in shared housing in a remote setting.

Commitment:  August 7, 2023 - June 7, 2024

Compensation: $2,580/month stipend

Application:  To apply click here. 

Questions? Contact Brandy Lively at [email protected] or (209) 532-3691. 

PERKS

Staff Housing

While working as a Naturalist Resident you will live in on-site housing that was built in 2013. You will be provided with your own private bedroom and shared bathroom. The house has a common living room, kitchen with modern amenities, and a washer and dryer. This living arrangement provides you with the convenience of living on-site and the fun experience of sharing a house with fellow Naturalist Residents.

The house is fully furnished with all the basics you will need. Each bedroom comes equipped with a twin bed, lamp, desk, closet, and dresser. The kitchen has basic kitchenware and a dishwasher. The living room has a couch, coffee table, and a TV/DVD player.

Other Perks

      On-site Wilderness First Aid, CPR, & AED training, no charge to staff

      Pro-deals with select outfitters      

      Financial assistance for one outdoor education related conference      

      One paid day to visit and observe another environmental education program in the region

OFF THE CLOCK

Our campus may be remote, but that does not mean there is a lack of things to do. The local area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more! The nearby towns of Sonora, Twain Harte, and Columbia offer coffee shops, restaurants, museums, farmers markets, movie theater, and shopping. Past Naturalist Residents have brought a variety of recreational items such as instruments, soccer balls, craft supplies, movies, board games, books, and more to use during their free time. You can use most of our school’s facilities when not in use by our guests, such as the gym, weight room, mountain bikes, and basketball courts.

Driving Times to Local Attractions

We are about...

30 minutes from the town of Sonora and 20 minutes from Twain Harte or Columbia. There are many places to eat, hike, climb, shop, and explore in and around these town. 

1 hour from Murphys, Angels Camp, and Pinecrest Lake/Dodge Ridge ski resort. A little over an hour from Calaveras Big Trees Stat Park and Emigrant Wilderness Area. 

2 hours from Sacramento, Bear Valley ski resort, and Yosemite National Park.

3 hours from South Lake Tahoe, Fresno, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

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