Education & Outreach Internship – 2025

Oxbow Eco-Center

St. Lucie County - Environmental Resources Department

Organization Overview

The Oxbow Eco-Center is both a nature preserve and an environmental learning center in Port St. Lucie, Florida, situated on 225-acres along the North Fork of the St Lucie River.  It is the Environmental Education and Community Outreach Division of St. Lucie County’s Environmental Resources Department. Oxbow Eco-Center staff and volunteers provide environmental programming throughout the year to residents of all ages and backgrounds through school field trips, workshops, lectures, public events, and service-learning opportunities.  The Oxbow Eco-Center cultivates knowledge, nurtures a sense of wonder and inspires stewardship for the natural world through education, artistic expression, collaboration, volunteerism & celebration. The land is managed and preserved to sustain native plants and wildlife. Boardwalks, pedestrian trails and observation towers allow visitors to fully experience nature without disturbing it.

Internship Description

We are looking for a passionate educator and naturalist to join our small team. Interns will be involved in all organizational and operational activities, including but not limited to volunteer coordination, outreach events, event planning, community building, teaching, curriculum development, guided hikes, animal care and husbandry, data collection, social media, and occasional administrative work. 

Compensation

Interns will be paid to work 20 hours per week @ $16.31/hour.

Necessary Qualifications

• Applicants must be enrolled in a degree seeking program at an accredited college or university, preferably in environmental science, biological sciences, education, or similar field of study OR completion of degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in environmental science, biological sciences, education, or similar field within the last 2 years.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license
• Applicants must agree to a background check
• Applicants must be comfortable working in less-than-ideal conditions, including but not limited to extreme heat, humidity, sun exposure, and inclement weather
• Applicants must be able to stand for extended periods of time
• Applicants must have experience using presentation platforms (e.g., Microsoft Office including PowerPoint, Canva)
• Applicants must be passionate about education and working with children and adults
• Applicants will be required to work Saturdays and should be available for all special events
• Applicants must have excellent written and oral communication skills

Desired Qualifications

• Field experience relevant to South Florida’s ecosystems
• Ability to identify local flora and fauna
• Comfortable caring for and handling live animal ambassadors
• Social media experience
• Marketing/graphic design experience
• Teaching and/or outreach experience