Temporary Outdoor Education Intern

Overview

Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve is Carnegie Museum of Natural History's research station and environmental education center, located approximately one hour southeast of Pittsburgh in the Laurel Highlands region. Powdermill encompasses 2200 acres where scientists conduct an array of biological research and where the public can enjoy miles of hiking trails, exhibits, and camps and classes. Carnegie Museums is interested in candidates who, through their experience and collaborations, will contribute to diversity and excellence of the Carnegie Museums community.

Join Powdermill Nature Reserve’s education team and engage visitors with the natural history of the area. Powdermill Nature Reserve, Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s environmental research center, seeks outdoor educators to work both independently and collaboratively with Powdermill Education staff. Interacting with visitors of Powdermill will be the primary responsibility of this position, and enthusiasm for sharing a love of nature is key for success in this position.

Candidates possessing knowledge of the natural history of the Laurel Highlands or similar area and those currently enrolled in or recently graduated from undergraduate programs in science or education preferred.

This is a temporary position expected to run from May 25, 2026 through August 22, 2026.

Posted Friday, March 13, 2026 at 4:00 AM | Expires Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 3:59 AM

• Interact with visitors and lead instruction for Powdermill Education Programs, planning educational experiences based on lesson plans and resources provided by CMNH Education staff.
• Provide prompt, friendly, accurate responses to inquiries from program participants and Nature Center visitors.
• Lead and facilitate drop-in activities for all-ages nature exploration; collaborate with a team of educators and assistants to deliver engaging and safe learning experiences.
• Greet and orient visitors to available learning opportunities and trails; contribute to Nature Center operations as needed (e.g., staffing the gift shop, conducting visitor surveys).
• Spend time in the field with scientific staff to learn about Powdermill research.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, K-12 education, natural sciences, or related field, and 1 year of professional experience in a relevant field is preferred.
• For candidates with professional experience in education, knowledge of best practices in outdoor teaching, guiding student-directed inquiry, planning differentiated instruction, using authentic assessment, conducting learner-centered activities for large groups, experience with positive behavior support systems, and co-teaching is preferred.
• For candidates with professional experience in natural sciences or related fields, experience with hands-on learning and public engagement in outdoor settings is preferred.

Schedule

• On-site availability Tuesday to Friday, 9:45 am to 4:15 pm, is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Energetic and charismatic individuals who can help children experience nature in a welcoming, safe, and scientific learning environment.
• First aid and CPR certification is required or can be obtained through Carnegie Museums after hiring.

Physical Requirements

• Constant mobility around the Nature Center and outdoors on trails for several hours at a time.
• Occasional hiking, crossing cold streams, and carrying education supplies up to 50 lbs. over rough terrain, possibly in inclement weather.

Candidates will be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Greeting and orienting visitors to available learning opportunities and trails.
• Providing a welcoming and enjoyable experience at the Nature Center.
• Assisting with Nature Center operations such as staffing the gift shop and conducting visitor surveys.
• Facilitating drop-in activities for all-ages nature exploration.
• Spending time in the field with scientific staff to learn more about research at Powdermill.

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