Description

Love wildlife, bears, and hands-on outdoor work? Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime internship at the only open classroom in the world where wild American black bears visit naturally.

This is a physically demanding, outdoor role—but incredibly rewarding. Expect long days, simple living, and unforgettable experiences.

You’ll help with:

Bear food prep, habitat cleanup & conservation projects
Observing, recording & photographing wild bears
Educating visitors & giving short talks
Assisting with visitor services and gift shop sales
What to expect:

Outdoor work in all weather (lifting up to 50 lbs)
Rustic housing & food provided (limited electricity, no water in cabins)
7–9 hour days, 1–2 days off/week (seasonal)
Remote, wildlife-rich setting
Stipend: $50–$75/week (8+ week commitment)
At the end of the day, you’ll be tired, dirty—and smiling—knowing you made a real difference for bears.

Requirements

The primary requirement is a sincere desire to help promote the welfare of bears and other natural resources through a personal contribution of long hours and hard work. Preference will be given to candidates who are enrolled in or have recently completed post-secondary education in programs such as wildlife management, wildlife biology & environmental education, natural resources. However, other applicants with a sincere desire to intern with us will be given serious consideration as well. All interns must read the ABA Volunteer Handbook and be willing to complete a liability waiver form. An applicant must be conscientious, have a good work ethic, and be a team player and self-starter. In addition he or she must be able to follow directions and have good social skills in working with the public. We are looking for individuals that can stay for at LEAST a month between May 1st and October 1st. Since space is limited, those able to stay longer will be given preference. We are looking for applicants who are:

Flexible regarding changes in schedule and work tasks
Comfortable being in close proximity to large wild animals such as bears
Able to work closely and cooperatively with other interns, staff, and volunteers
Able to work outside in temperatures ranging from the 30s to the 90s and in all weather conditions
Willing to endure the many biting insects that inhabit Northern Minnesota during the summer
Comfortable talking with the public about the untraditional nature of the VSWS. As a supplemental feeding site, with a 50-year history of feeding wild black bears, we often are controversial
YOU MUST BE OVER 18 YRS OLD TO HOLD AN INTERN POSITION WITH ABA