Education Traineeships

(Opportunities for traineeships to extend consecutive seasons are available.)

Passionate about pursuing a career in conservation education or biological science education? Established through a major gift to the School in the Clouds campaign, the Education Traineeship is an investment in the next generation of conservation education leaders. Students participating in these internships have the opportunities to develop job skills at a world-class raptor conservation and education facility. Experience working hands-on with our collection of non-releasable raptors and learn more about animal husbandry, raptor enrichment, and have the opportunity to present our live education ambassadors in programs for the public. A primary focus of our Summer Traineeship is to work with our Summer Nature Camp program where you will gain experience developing and instructing experiential education programs with youth.

The objective of the Speers Conservation Education Traineeship is to train individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in conservation education or biological science education. A secondary goal is to maintain relationships with interns in order to build a growing network of conservation educators across the country, and in time, around the world. Trainees are selected from Pennsylvania, the United States, and abroad. 

Conservation Education Traineeship Details

• Live on-site for 4-6 months 
• Receive a monthly stipend
• Interact with research scientists and graduate students in the field, as well as visiting professionals.
• Work with our collection of non-releasable raptors. Gain skills in animal husbandry, feeding procedures, enrichment, raptor handling, and more!
• Meet and form partnerships with other trainees and interns from across the • nation and around the world.
• Network with other conservation organizations.
• Develop and implement new programs for the public that will grow in future years.
• Learn and facilitate on-site and off-site raptor conservation programs for public and school groups.
• Educate visitors about raptor conservation and Appalachian forest ecology.
• Become a mentor for future interns and volunteers.
• Obtain college credit as approved by student’s accredited university.
• Develop technological and social media skills.
• Vehicles available for work use

Eligibility Requirements:

• Students enrolled in an accredited college with coursework in conservation, education, or the biological sciences are eligible to apply. (Preference for internship placement is given to college graduates or senior students.)
• Background clearances- state and federal
• Valid driver’s license