Overview
Field instructors in the Ecology Project International (EPI) Yellowstone Program work in teams of three to teach five- to nine-day field ecology courses for middle and high school students in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Our programs introduce students to real-world scientific study, engage them in conservation service projects, and raise their cultural and ecological awareness.
During Yellowstone winter and summer courses, students work with research partners (e.g., National Park Service) to collect data for wildlife research projects. Participants in our summer program also engage in a hands-on conservation service project with partners like B Bar Ranch or National Parks Conservation Association. Additionally, there is time dedicated to observing wildlife and experiencing Yellowstone’s unique geology, playing in the snow (winter), and whitewater rafting (summer). Field instructors guide student exploration via relevant ecology and scientific process lessons while practicing responsible relationships to place.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental education, or related field; or equivalent experience
• Experience delivering science and ecology-based curriculum
• Outdoor leadership experience working with young adults in remote areas
• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and demonstrated ability to work with youth across a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences—including Indigenous youth, low-income youth, and rural and reservation populations
Required Skills:
• Experience camping in bear country; ability to teach camping skills to teens who may have little to no camping experience
• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR certifications
• Valid driver’s license with an insurable driving record
• Experience driving participants in programmatic vehicles in variable road conditions
Preferred Skills:
• 2-3 years of prior experience instructing middle to high school students in a formal or informal setting
• Wildlife biology research experience, especially with species of the Rocky Mountains
• Knowledge and familiarity with the Rocky Mountains, especially the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
• Experience working in field settings with teenage populations experiencing mental and emotional health challenges (i.e., wilderness therapy)
• Experience with winter activities such as snowshoeing
About Ecology Project International
EPI is an international non-profit dedicated to addressing critical conservation issues through field-based partnerships between local experts and middle/high school students. We engage adolescents from local communities and visiting youth from other regions in applied hands-on science and conservation as they learn about and help protect threatened species and habitats. EPI’s programs in the U.S. and Latin America inspire the next generation of environmental leaders to engage in conservation efforts at home and around the world. More information can be found at www.ecologyproject.org.
