Internship Opportunities
Why Intern with Primitive Pursuits?
As a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County, Primitive Pursuits is part of two national not-for-profit organizations, in partnership with the federal government (USDA).
Primitive Pursuits is a leader in both the national wilderness awareness movement, as well as a regional effort to develop financially sustainable social enterprises; developing social change within the market place rather than relying on philanthropy and other traditional revenue streams.
Although we have been growing steadily for over ten years, we have maintained the quality of our organization with small staff to participant ratios and a high level of staff involvement in the leadership of the organization.
Working with Primitive Pursuits will provide invaluable experience on multiple levels; from small business development and project management to cutting edge wilderness education and service delivery practices.
Best of all you'll get the chance to be the person that every employer is looking for: a mission driven, systems thinking, independently motivated community visionary.
All internships are provided through Cornell Cooperative Extension and are unpaid unless interns have a summer FWS award.
Field Internships:
Our field Interns combine wilderness survival skill and bioregional knowledge with the most effective tools of mentoring and professional development. As part of a committed group that challenges, creates and leads together you will have many opportunities for personal growth and valuable workforce training. Available internships include:
- Wilderness Field Instructor
- Environmental Educator
- Assistant Program Director
- Wilderness Program Development
Field interships are generally 40 hrs per week, involve 1 week of training (June 18th - 23rd) and several weeks of field teaching. Environmental Educator & Wilderness Field Interns who complete 5 weeks of teaching are eligible to receive a Wilderness Skills Instructor Certification. Limited camping facilities are also available.
Administrative Internships
Our administrative interns offer an opportunity to be part of a cutting edge social enterprise while testing your knowledge and abilities in the marketplace of the real world. You'll receive support and guidance from a team of entrepreneurial minded program leaders dedicated to building financially successful models of lasting social change. Available internships include:
- Marketing Strategist
- Business Associate
- Graphic Design Artist
- Non-Profit Administration
Administrative internships are generally 20 or more hours per week. Qualifications include ability to: understand and incorporate teaching philosophy into program delivery; maintain a positive, professional and inclusive environment; collaborate effectively with others and engage youth; promote the Primitive Pursuits nature education mission; keep effective records; and demonstrate commitment to your own professional growth. Expect a great deal of learning opportunities and a friendly, innovative work environment.
