Join a staff of creative, energetic professionals who work together to help connect people with nature and history through educational, recreational and cultural experiences. Through historic farm tasks, demonstrations, and hands-on interpretation, the Historical Interpreter Intern welcomes people of all ages to connect with history.
Job Summary: CNC is in search of a Historical Interpretive intern with a passion for sharing the past in a relevant, engaging way with children and adults. Under supervision of the Historical Interpreter, the intern will be responsible for delivering public programming and educational activities at the late 1800s Homestead Farm and Log Schoolhouse. Optional: The intern may select a project that compliments their individual interests within the field. Projects may include an emphasis on exhibits, programming, collections management, historical research, or volunteer management.
Objective: To provide high quality history programs to visitors at the Chippewa Nature Center Homestead Farm and Log Schoolhouse.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop a working knowledge of 19th century Midland history, as well as CNC’s procedures, facilities and programs
- Lead activities and traditional skill demonstrations, such as rope making, corn grinding, woodworking, and fiber arts (Training provided)
- Assist in setting-up/cleaning-up self-guided activities
- Assist with volunteer sign-ins
- Select a project (optional) to be completed by end of internship, August 31, 2025
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Coursework or degree in public history, interpretation, environmental history, museum studies or related field
- Comfortable interacting with and serving all ages and audiences
- Demonstrated ability to write and speak effectively
- Physically able to lift 50 pounds
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of basic interpretive/teaching techniques
- Working knowledge of the cultural history of the region and its relationship to natural resources
- First aid and CPR certification (or willingness and ability to become certified)
Status: Part time, seasonal (10 hours/week for 15 weeks)
Reports to: Corrine Bloomfield, Historical Interpreter
Schedule: Sunday afternoons, 12-5:30 pm and select weekdays
Start Date: Week of May 18, 2026
End Date: August 30, 2026
Compensation & Benefits: $15/hr; staff uniform, CNC membership, 20% discount in Nature Center Store, 10% discount on registered program member fee
Application procedure: Send cover letter and resume to Corrine Bloomfield, Historical Interpreter at [email protected] or 400 S Badour Road, Midland, MI 48640
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Overview: CNC is a nonprofit, environmental education organization. Its mission is to connect all people to nature through educational, recreational and cultural experiences. The 1,500-acre property includes woodlands, fields, ponds and rivers. CNC’s facilities consist of a Visitor Center with a River Overlook, Ecosystem Gallery, Wildlife Viewing Area and more; an 1870s Homestead Farm complex; Nature Preschool; an arboretum and 19 miles of trails. Visit www.chippewanaturecenter.org for more information.
Chippewa Nature Center is committed to creating a workplace and visitor experience where all people feel valued for their unique attributes, characteristics, and perspectives. Staff, volunteers, program participants, visitors, and all those who engage with the nature center are invited to fully connect with CNC regardless of their race, color, age, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, marital status, political affiliation, or parental status. Through ongoing learning, training, and listening, CNC strives to welcome all people.
Equal Opportunity Employer: CNC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants on the basis of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, height, weight, handicap or disability, veteran status or any other status or condition protected by applicable state or federal laws.
