Seasonal Naturalist - Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)
Location: Portage, Alaska (Housing provided)
Full-time, 30-week seasonal position
Preferred Dates: Early April – October/November
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is seeking an enthusiastic Naturalist to support their educational and interpretive programs. As part of a small nonprofit team, this role offers an opportunity to engage with visitors, share knowledge about Alaskan wildlife, and contribute to the center's conservation efforts in Portage Valley. This is an ideal position for candidates seeking a career in education, interpretation, or wildlife conservation, particularly those looking to build experience in these fields. Preference will be given to applicants who may return for multiple seasons.
Key Responsibilities:
Interpretation and Education:
- Lead and assist with daily and impromptu tours, animal encounters, and educational events.
- Provide frontline interpretation to guests, ensuring positive interactions and managing guest behaviors.
- Represent AWCC at outreach events and assist with developing educational programming.
Sanctuary Presentability and Safety:
- Assist with garden maintenance (planting, weeding, harvesting) and ensure the sanctuary is clean and safe.
- Respond to guest incidents and ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.
Animal Care:
- Assist with the care of resident wildlife, including ambassador animals like ferrets.
- Contribute to daily animal care routines and other husbandry duties as assigned.
Research and Monitoring:
- Assist with the Alaska Beluga Monitoring Program by observing Cook Inlet beluga whales.
- Support interns in facilitating programming and offer guidance during senior staff absence.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Public speaking skills and the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Comfortable working outdoors in challenging weather conditions (wind, rain, cold).
- Ability to work long hours on your feet, walking long distances over uneven terrain.
- Physical ability to perform tasks such as lifting up to 40 pounds.
- Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record and eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Willingness to receive a tetanus vaccination by the date of hire.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends.
Preferred:
- Some college coursework or a degree in Education, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or related fields.
- Previous experience working with wildlife, animal care, or interpretation.
- Experience in identifying local flora and fauna (both native and invasive species).
- First Aid and CPR certification.
Area Specifics and Benefits:
- Housing: Provided on-site (dormitory style, shared amenities). $300 security deposit required.
- Transportation: AWCC vehicles available for occasional group grocery and supply runs (if you have a valid driver’s license).
- Location: Portage, Alaska, 45 miles southeast of Anchorage. Limited local amenities, with Anchorage being the nearest major city.
- Perks:
- Free admission to AWCC for friends and family.
- Discount at the Be Wild Gift Shop.
- Uniform provided (jackets, shirts, etc.).
How to Apply:
To apply, please submit:
- A resume (no more than 2 pages).
- A single-page cover letter detailing how this position aligns with your career goals and demonstrating an understanding of AWCC’s mission.
- Three professional references (with job titles and working relationships).
- Earliest start date and latest end date.
Apply soon – applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
