Outdoor Recreation Field Intern

About The Wild Way

The Wild Way is a nonprofit with the mission of providing outdoor, expedition-based experiences to girls to boost their confidence, resilience, and curiosity. We serve girls ages 9 to 14 throughout the Roanoke Valley.

Position Summary

The Field Intern is a hands-on, immersive summer position for college students interested in outdoor recreation, youth development, and nonprofit management. Interns will work closely with Wild Way staff to plan, organize, and lead summer programming, including our week-long Paddlesports Camps and overnight outdoor trips. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about the outdoors, enjoys working with youth, and feels deeply connected to The Wild Way’s mission of building young girls’ confidence.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist Wild Way staff with the facilitation of summer events and programming, which may include, but are not limited to, events related to stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing, biking, hiking, and camping.
• Support The Wild Way’s week-long Paddlesports Camps, including daily program set-up, equipment management, activity facilitation, and participant supervision.
• Assist with overnight trips as needed, including camping logistics, gear management, and group support.
• The intern will be present at all summer events, which are typically scheduled on weekdays during the summer months, although there may be some weekend days required. Events are NOT every day; we average 2 events per week, with the exception of our three week-long day camps which are 5 days per week.
• Help create a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment for participants.
• Assist with administrative or planning tasks as needed to support summer operations.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in outdoor recreation, youth development, or nonprofit work.
• High-energy and capable of actively engaging in outdoor sports, such as hiking, camping, paddling, and swimming. Outdoor expertise is not required; however, confidence, adaptability, and willingness to learn are essential to effectively support participants.
• Passion for working with youth and supporting confidence-building experiences.
• Ability to work as part of a team and take direction in dynamic outdoor settings.
• Reliable, responsible, and adaptable.
• Previous experience working with youth or outdoor programs is preferred but not required.
• Valid driver’s license required and willingness to travel for events.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check and driving record check required.