Company Description

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is striving to see the end of exotic animal exploitation and private ownership of big cats and bears within our lifetime. These magnificent animals deserve to enjoy life without fear, abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Through education, advocacy, and quality care, we are making strides in changing a nation’s mindset. TCWR accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, rescuing animals from dire situations, offering them a forever home, and providing the best animal care possible in captivity. We have created a place that these animals can finally get the attention and freedom that they deserve. With your help, we will expand our public educational outreach, education programming, advocacy work, and continue to rescue animals.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit, we rescue animals in need and provide them with lifetime care through our donors’ generosity. We are a strict hands-off facility, with absolutely no contact with our animal residents. As a true sanctuary, we do not buy, breed, sell, or trade animals in our care. Safety is our priority; we have strict safety guidelines that every team member must obey.

TCWR’s internship program began in 1997, more than 350 interns from all over the globe have completed the program. We provide a quality background for individuals in the animal care industry, but we also recruit team members for animal care and Education positions from our internship programs.

Internship Description

The Education Intern will research, develop, and present educational programming to the public and school/special groups following the National Association for Interpretation guidelines. Applicants must be self-motivated, with a high desire to spread awareness about all the species that call the Refuge home and educate the public on the negative impacts of the exotic pet trade. The ability to work in a team environment or independently is essential. A degree in Education, Zoology, Biology, Conservation, Education, or related field is preferred.

Job Description

Public Education– present programs each day to the general public, visitors, and special group tours, along with giving guided tours.

Special Programming– the education department is in charge of organizing programs for special animal holidays such as World Wildlife Day, Earth Day, Tiger Day, etc. The intern will assist in planning and presenting programs on special holidays.

Research– responsible for researching and developing programming according to the National Association for Interpretation guidelines (Education Coordinator will cover guidelines during training)

School Groups– assist with organizing/presenting during school groups at the Refuge and off-site, including setup of promotional material.

Advanced Training– multiple opportunities throughout internship for furthering education during the 6-month internship

Educational Writing-help the department write educational articles for the website, blog posts, and newsletter.

Wayside Exhibits– assist in research and planning for wayside exhibits and educational signage at the Refuge.

Child Camps– plan and help with all child activity days, including spring and summer camps, child fun days, and developing and presenting programs and activities.

Special Events– assisting with organizing and planning special events as needed.

Requirements:

• At least a Bachelor’s degree in Education or an animal-related field.
• The ability to stand for long periods.
• The ability to lift 25 lbs.
• The ability to live on-site for six months.
• The ability to speak before small and large crowds.
• Knowledge of Adobe Suite products.

COVID19: To keep our animal residents, keepers, and visitors safe, masks are currently required at all times while on property. Applicants will be updated accordingly to all necessary precautions for the internship program.

Training Provided:

Education interns do not work directly with the animals and aid the Education Department in developing advocacy campaigns and educational programming for visitors and off-site presentations.

Compensation

$50 weekly stipend for food. On-site housing (utilities, internet, washer & dryer, A/C & heat, and TV provided)

Important Dates

Deadline for Applications: April 1, 2021

The position lasts for six months with the option to extend.

Internship start and end dates: August 15-February 12

Location: Eureka Springs, Arkansas

To Apply

Email your cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation (required) to Beckie Moore Education Coordinator/ Wildlife Interpreter education@tcwr.org