Environmental Education Internship – Spring & Summer 2026

About Hartley

Hartley Nature Center (HNC) is a non-profit environmental learning center located in the heart of the 660+ acre Hartley Park in Duluth, Minnesota. Our mission is to inspire lifelong connections with nature through education, play, and exploration. Each year, HNC serves thousands of children and adults through diverse programming, from Hartley Nature Preschool (HNP) to school field trips, summer camps, and community programs. Our 12,000-square-foot nature center, a model of energy-efficient design, includes classrooms, exhibit spaces, and staff offices to support our programs. HNC is an inclusive and dedicated community, guided by a passionate board of directors, talented staff, and a network of volunteers who make our mission possible.

Position Overview

The Environmental Education Intern will serve as a lead instructor for HNC’s nature-based summer camp, guiding campers through hands-on outdoor learning and play. As an integral part of our summer camp team, interns facilitate memorable nature-based experiences for children aged 3-12 while also receiving valuable professional development in environmental education. Interns will gain real-world teaching experience, learn best practices in outdoor education, and receive support from a dedicated team focused on their growth as educators.

Status & Dates

• Full-time: 40 hrs/week, see note below
• Start dates: April 2026 or May 26, 2026
• End date: August 21, 2026 - can be flexible 

• Please note that full time hours are required May 24th-August 21st but part time hours with a prorated stipend are available April and May.

Compensation & Benefits

• Stipend: $1,000/month (prorated for part-time period)
• Extensive in-house training and professional development
• Access to outdoor gear pro-deals

Duties

• Teach and support environmental education programs in school year, including field trips, after-school activities, and in summer, nature-based day camps for preschool–middle-school ages
• Engage with the public and share naturalist knowledge
• Potential for monthly public-facing building shift (one Saturday per month)
• Participate in training on outdoor learning, lesson development, behavior support, and nature play
• Assist with nature center projects: native gardens, live animal and monarch exhibits, facility upkeep
• Support winter equipment rental and maintenance (skis, snowshoes, kicksleds) as needed
• Maintain educational materials and shared spaces
• Other duties as assigned
  
  

Qualifications

• Commitment to inclusive, equitable teaching
• Enthusiasm for working with children outdoors
• Pursuing or holding a degree in environmental studies, education, the sciences, or related fields—or equivalent experience
• Ability to teach and work outside in all weather conditions
• Experience in environmental education or outdoor recreation (experience with ages 3–12 preferred)
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Working Conditions

• Most programming occurs outdoors and requires comfort in varied and sometimes extreme weather
• Ability to hike 1–5 miles over uneven terrain while carrying a 5–20 lb backpack
• Ability to drive a 12-passenger van is preferred but not required