Resident Naturalist Volunteer

Next available positions: December 1, 2012. Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Resident Naturalist interns at the University of Georgia’s Costa Rica campus (UGA CR) are dedicated, motivated individuals with a passion for natural history, teaching, and guiding. Resident Naturalists lead a variety of nature-based activities and academic programs for student groups and eco-tourists of all ages and educational backgrounds. Resident Naturalists have the opportunity to advance their training in the fields of tropical ecology, natural history, environmental education, sustainability, conservation, agriculture, Costa Rican culture and Spanish. Interaction with guests from around the world both formally and informally allows Resident Naturalist interns the opportunity to fine-tune their skills in public relations and public speaking. This is a high-energy position and requires excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, in addition to expertise in natural history and related fields. Interns spend days and evenings learning and teaching in a socially and environmentally unique atmosphere at the base of the magnificent Monteverde Cloud Forest. In addition to their primary duties as facilitators and guides, Resident Naturalists will have the opportunity to participate in on-going projects on and around UGA Costa Rica. Naturalists are also encouraged to develop their own individual projects within their areas of interest, which may include anything from community service activities to scientific research.