The International Crane Foundation (ICF) is seeking to fill 4 Interpretive Naturalist Internship positions in 2015.
Background:
ICF is a leader in the conservation of the world's 15 crane species and is dedicated to providing experience,
knowledge, and inspiration to involve people in resolving threats to cranes and the ecosystems vital to their longterm survival. ICF's world headquarters is located in Baraboo, WI one hour north of Madison, WI. ICF is open to the
public every day from April 15th to October 31st each year and all of the world’s 15 crane species are on livedisplay at our facility. These cranes, our interpretive tours, interactive exhibits, multimedia theater, and nature trails
attract more than 25,000 visitors each season. In order to achieve our mission, the Communications and Education
Department disseminates ICF’s message as widely as possible, both on-site and through outreach work, using the
latest technologies available and by selling annual memberships to support ICF’s conservation initiatives. For more
information, please visit our website at www.savingcranes.org
Description:
Interpretive Naturalist Interns will gain valuable hands-on experience working with the ICF Communications and
Education Department and will:
 Develop and lead daily interpretive tours at ICF for visiting schools, community organizations, private
groups, families, and the general public.
 Interact and assist the general public with the sale of admission tickets, gift shop merchandise, annual
memberships, and overall ICF site orientation on a daily basis.
 Conduct duties associated with opening/closing the visitor center, exhibits, and gift shop on a daily basis.
 Achieve experience planning, designing, and evaluating interpretive programs and written materials.
 Learn about ICF project initiatives related to crane ecology, behavior, and husbandry; field conservation and
ecology; and ecosystem restoration techniques and processes.
 Have the opportunity to volunteer with other departments and participate in job shadow experiences at ICF.
 Gain exposure to wildlife conservation methods and endangered species management.
 Meet and work with a variety of international colleagues and professional staff at ICF.
 Educate and inspire people of all ages and walks of life about the world’s 15 crane species and the
ecosystems on which they depend.
 Assist in the completion of one or several projects related to the goals, work plan, and objectives of the ICF
Communications and Education Department (e.g. help design and develop self-guided written or audio
media; write, film and edit short films about ICF’s work; create, test, and evaluate interpretive programs;
design interpretive wayside panels; organize and implement on-site events; or research policy related
projects and initiatives, etc.)
The Interpretive Naturalist Internship begins March 2nd, 2015 and runs through November 20th, 2015. A $550/month
stipend and comfortable on-site housing accommodations are provided at no charge. Applicants should be prepared
to live in a co-ed communal living situation and be able to work outdoors everyday in all weather conditions found
in Wisconsin. Interpretive Naturalist Interns will work weekends and usually have two consecutive days off during
the work week. The ICF campus is located 10 miles from downtown Baraboo, WI. All applicants must be eligible to
work in the United States at the time they apply. Candidates without a work visa must obtain one before they will be
considered for an internship. ICF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Qualifications:
Two years of college or an equivalent practical experience; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability
to teach diverse audiences in a non-formal setting; aptitude to provide exceptional customer service; and be able to
work cohesively as a member of the ICF team. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest/background in the
fields of interpretation, environmental education, conservation biology, ornithology, education, graphic design,
film/documentary production, or other related fields.
Application Procedure:
Applicants should send a one page cover letter, resume (no more than two pages), and contact information for three
references to: Mr. Cully Shelton, Interpretive Programs Manager (cshelton@savingcranes.org).
Positions are open until filled.