Naturalist helps young guest explore life in Greenleaf Pond.

Do you play well with Otters? The Wild Center welcomes members to our team of creative, adventurous people who are dedicated to sharing the stories of the natural world. We are located in the heart of the Adirondacks, and find our inspiration within the abundance of nature surrounding us. We invite you to discover the story of the Adirondacks.

In addition to our full time positions, there are seasonal openings and internships each summer. You are urged to check back to this page as positions will be posted here as they become available.

Open Positions

Click/tap the arrow on the right for more information.

The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work.

  • Event Staff and Bartenders (temporary)

    The Wild Center (TWC) is looking for new team members who enjoy working with others and have strong interpersonal skills. An event staff employee will be supervised by an event manager who will assign roles such as: a ticket receptionist, guest greeter, table and chair set up, dishwashing, and other duties required by the venue. 

    In addition to job roles, event staff will likely be on their feet for the duration of an event and need a certain level of energy and enthusiasm to succeed.

    Essential Duties & Responsibilities for Event Staff: 

    • Setting up necessary chairs and stages for events
    • Effectively operating cash register systems
    • Being assigned various tasks by the event manager
    • Facilitating the proper organization and cleanliness of venues
    • Upholding any necessary safety precautions
    • Providing high levels of customer service
    • Welcoming guests to the venue and receiving tickets
    • Helping to set up and take down decorations
    • Serving food and drinks to attendees
    • Providing relevant information to event attendees
    • Checking equipment into an inventory system and inspecting for potential damage
    • Aiding in event packing after the event

    Essential Duties & Responsibilities for Bartender: 

    • Follow all state and local laws for serving alcohol responsibly (e.g., last call times).
    • Prepare drink orders for guests according to specified recipes using measuring systems.
    • Maintain cleanliness and condition of bar, bar unit, tables, and other tools, following all set-up guidelines.
    • Set up and take down a temporary bar.
    • Prepare fresh garnishes for drinks.
    • Document and communicate any incidents/accidents immediately to management during shift or event.
    • Stock ice, glassware, and paper supplies.
    • Requisition all necessary supplies, specifically bottle-for-bottle liquor restock, transporting supplies from storeroom to bar set-up area as required.
    • Remove soiled wares from the bar top and tables and place in the designated area.
    • Anticipate and communicate replenishment needs promptly, ensuring no shortages throughout scheduled function time.
    • Clear and wash glassware

    Qualifications: 

    • High level of attention to detail
    • Strong organizational skills
    • A positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills
    • Strong verbal and written communication
    • High energy and stamina
    • Excellent critical thinking abilities
    • Performing well under pressure
    • Ability to efficiently multitask
    • Tips certified a plus, but not required for bartender

    Compensation:

    • Pay Range: $15-$18/hour

    To Apply

    Open our Employment Application or go to www.wildcenter.org/careers to access the job description and application link.   

    The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work. For technical issues email careers@wildcenter.org.

  • Jeanne Hutchins Youth Climate Coordinator

    Based at The Wild Center, a natural history museum in New York’s Adirondack Park, the Youth Climate Program (YCP) is a global initiative that empowers students to develop and implement climate action plans in their schools and communities. The Wild Center is seeking a highly motivated and organized Youth Climate Coordinator to lead and organize the annual Adirondack Youth Climate Summit, directly supporting high school students with climate action plans, coordinating youth field trips, and assisting with communications. A core component of this position is mentoring and supporting high school youth through the lens of positive youth development.  

    The Youth Climate Program works to embody the following values through all programming, resources and interactions: youth-driven, place-based, action-oriented, solutions-focused, hopeful and equitable. 

     

    Position Responsibilities

    • Lead on planning the annual Adirondack Youth Climate Summit; a 2-day climate change conference for over 200 high school students and teachers. This includes managing agenda development, speaker outreach, student registration, marketing, and on-site logistics for a large hybrid event
    • Support weekly summit planning sessions with 15-20 teens for 2 months leading up to the summit
    • Mentor high school students on implementing climate action plans in their schools and communities, with a focus on supporting youth-driven ideas
    • Manage a mini-grant program for youth climate action projects
    • Lead on planning a summer 4-day Youth Climate Leadership Retreat and other youth leadership programming
    • Support, track and build the youth climate alumni network
    • Organize and chaperone youth field trips to Youth Climate Summits, regional sites and other climate education events, including preparing students to lead presentations and workshops for various audiences
    • Work directly with regional teachers and youth organizations to support school environmental clubs/initiatives 
    • Communicate clearly and professionally with youth, parents, teachers, organizational partners, internal staff and the public
    • Assist with Youth Climate Program communications, including taking photos, writing copy, creating social media posts, and sourcing youth-generated content
    • In collaboration with the center’s education department, develop and teach climate change educational and interpretive public programming across The Wild Center LEED campus, including use of the Science on a Sphere and Climate Solutions exhibition
    • Lead virtual and in-person workshops for climate change education outreach and engagement events and other speaking opportunities 
    • Maintain a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion across all areas of work

     

    Qualifications

    • Outstanding in-person and virtual communication and relational skills, with an emphasis on public speaking, facilitating educational experiences, and one-on-one conversations
    • Direct experience working with high school students with a focus on positive youth development
    • Experience with coordinating events, organizing field trips and doing community outreach
    • A desire to help young people find their passions, overcome challenges, and become leaders
    • Strong writing skills
    • Exceptional organizational and time management skills
    • Has an understanding of and passion for topics central to the Youth Climate Program, including climate change solutions, positive youth development, intersectional environmental issues, and dismantling systems of oppression
    • Comfort with navigating complexity, balancing competing priorities and maintaining focus in a fast-paced work environment
    • Confidence as an outward-facing representative of The Wild Center in various professional settings
    • Willingness to travel occasionally to other Youth Climate Summits, speaking engagements, and tabling events with regional youth
    • Competent with Google Suite, Zoom, and social media platforms
    • Policies – be prepared to adhere to all Wild Center policies including Covid safety procedures and regulations. Full Covid 19 vaccination status is required as a condition of employment.

     

    Compensation & Benefits

    • Pay range $38,000-$42,000
    • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, basic life insurance plan, health savings account, SIMPLE IRA retirement, employee assistance program and optional dental plan 
    • Paid vacation, sick/personal time, and holidays 
    • Position is based in Tupper Lake, NY and is currently a combination of remote and on-site work. Flexible scheduling and remote work dependant upon organization and department needs
    • The opportunity to work in a LEED certified state of the art facility on a 115 acre site on the Raquette River featuring over 50 species of live exhibit animals
    • Professional networking opportunities with leaders in the climate education field
    • Employee reciprocal program with other local attractions 
    • The Wild Center strives to create an environment where our team thrives both personally and professionally. While life on the job can move at a fast pace, we appreciate the times we can slow down. Whether it’s sharing stories over a staff potluck, being wowed by cool science facts, or taking a break during a meeting to view a cute animal – we make time to grow together as a community.

     

    To Apply

     

    The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work. For technical issues email careers@wildcenter.org.

  • Visitor Services Attendant

    Do you play well with Otters? If so, come join our team. The Wild Center (TWC) is looking to hire and train a number of Visitor Service Attendants. Whether this is your first job, tenth job, or just a fun summer job during retirement, we want you to join our team!

    Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

    • Wild Supply Retail Attendant 
    • Admission/Ticketing Attendant
    • Waterside Cafe Attendant 
    • Phone Receptionist 
    • Be a part of an excellent customer service team

    Qualifications: 

    • Working papers for those under 18 years of age
    • Friendly and positive attitude
    • Must work effectively with visitors and co-workers in a pleasant and courteous manner
    • Full COVID-19 vaccination status 
    • Availability to work on weekends and holidays 

    Compensation & Benefits

    • Pay: $14.25/hr
    • Reciprocal program with various regional attractions
    • Complementary family membership to TWC while employed
    • The opportunity to work in a LEED-certified state of the art facility on a 115 acre site on the Raquette River featuring over 50 species of live exhibit animals
    • The Wild Center strives to create an environment where our team thrives both personally and professionally. While life on the job can move at a fast pace, we appreciate the times we can slow down. Whether it’s sharing stories over a staff potluck, being wowed by cool science facts, or taking a break during a meeting to view a cute animal – we make time to grow together as a community.

     

    To Apply

    Open our Employment Application or go to www.wildcenter.org/careers to access the job description and application link.

  • Volunteer

    To learn more about volunteer opportunities at The Wild Center, visit our Volunteers section.

  • Full Time AmeriCorps Member (1700 hours or 12 months)

    The Wild Center (TWC) is seeking highly motivated AmeriCorps members for a 1700 hour (12 month) term at a natural history museum in the heart of New York State’s Adirondack region. Members are a key part of TWC’s visitor experience and will receive a broad range of interpretive experiences and opportunities. This position promotes leadership skills, development of local natural history knowledge, and best practices in customer service. Members will engage with visitors of all ages and backgrounds on our campus and throughout our community. We are looking for passionate, curious, and motivated people to join our team this year. All AmeriCorps members will share core duties related to visitor experience and community engagement with the option for additional responsibilities being offered to applicants with a particular interest in Climate Change or Animal Care.

     

    AmeriCorps Member Essential Duties and Responsibilities: ALL AmeriCorps Members will:

    • Facilitate interpretive programs for public visitors: including large groups, technology based Science on a Sphere, and outdoor programs (i.e. hikes, maple sugaring, ice fishing, and canoeing).
    • Learn to handle live animals such as turtles, birds, and mammals for interpretive experiences.
    • Teach school/afterschool programs to students in person and virtually, incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) activities and utilizing campus resources.
    • Design, implement, and manage community science programming at the local library and schools. 
    • Help maintain outdoor campus, opening and closing duties, trail sweeps, and gardening tasks.
    • Assist with planning and coordinating festivals, trail programs, and the Youth Climate Summit.

    Climate AmeriCorps Members: Above duties for ALL AmeriCorps Members and:

    • Plan and implement climate education activities/workshops/presentations virtually and in-person.
    • Spearhead Youth Climate Program communications by managing all social media accounts, compiling a monthly climate change education Newsflash, and promoting events.
    • Assist with planning and implementation of our annual climate programs including the Educator Retreat, Youth Leadership Retreat, and the Adirondack Youth Climate Summit.
    • Assist with mentoring local teens for the Youth Climate Leadership Retreat, Adirondack Youth Climate Summit planning, youth speaking engagements, and field trips.

    Animal Care AmeriCorps Members: Above duties for ALL AmeriCorps Members and:

    • Complete daily husbandry tasks for The Wild Center’s live animal collection including enclosure cleaning and servicing, diet preparation, and record keeping.
    • Work closely with our animal ambassadors, including in direct contact with select animals, and develop a deeper understanding of animal behavior and natural history.
    • Observe and participate in animal behavioral husbandry programs including environmental enrichment and animal training.
    • Assist with medical treatments and procedures, under the direct supervision and instruction of Animal Care Staff.

     

    Qualifications:

    • Ability to commit to the full term 1700 hours, ~12 months of AmeriCorps service. 
    • Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria.
    • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
    • Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service.
    • Interest in teaching natural history, climate science, and working outdoors throughout the year.
    • Flexibility and adaptability – we work in a dynamic team setting with shifting duties.
    • Self-motivated – you seek opportunities to learn and grow and can thrive independently.
    • Positive attitude and a willingness to work with people – you must enjoy working and communicating with people, including members of our rural Adirondack community.
    • Organization and time management skills – you will work on multiple tasks concurrently.
    • Maturity and professionalism – you will represent The Wild Center and AmeriCorps.
    • Detail and safety-oriented – working closely with wildlife requires a keen eye for details and will help you (and our animal ambassadors) thrive.
    • Policies – be prepared to adhere to all Wild Center policies including Covid safety procedures and regulations. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination is required as a condition of employment.

     

    Experience & Education:

    • Have a high school diploma or its equivalent or not have dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and must agree to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
    • A college degree is not required to apply for this position. We encourage current college students to apply, as well as non-traditional applicants not pursuing a degree.

     

    Work Schedule:

    • 40 hours per week, including weekends, special events, and occasional mornings and evenings, with two consecutive days off each week.
    • Flexible start date, with AmeriCorps hours to be completed over the course of up to 12 months.
    • Members will be required to attend AmeriCorps-specific service days throughout their term.

     

    Physical Demands:

    • Ability to traverse rolling trails and spend prolonged periods of time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, including extremely cold temperatures.
    • Daily periods of standing, bending, and crouching. Physical ability to frequently lift, scrub, and climb. Regular exposure to dirt, dust, animal feces, and cleaning chemicals. (Animal Care specific)

     

    Compensation & Benefits:

    • Approximately $376/week living allowance, paid bi-monthly.
    • $6,495 Segal Americorps Education award after 1700 hours of service.
    • Option for health insurance coverage.
    • Shared, fully equipped housing less than 1 mile from The Wild Center, with all utilities included. Housing may be shared with up to 8 other AmeriCorps members.
    • May be eligible for federal student loan forbearance during service term.
    • Flexibility with school schedules for students working toward college credit.
    • Professional training: team building, teaching skills, project management, science content knowledge, health and safety, accessibility, customer service, group management, and social emotional health.
    • Training/certifications: CPR & First Aid, Certified Interpretive Guide, Visual Thinking Strategies.
    • Optional water safety and canoe training plus use of canoes, kayaks, and SUP’s outside of work.
    • The Wild Center strives to create an environment where our team thrives both personally and professionally. While life on the job can move at a fast pace, we appreciate the times we can slow down. Whether it’s sharing stories over a staff potluck, being wowed by cool science facts, or taking a break during a meeting to view a cute animal – we make time to grow together as a community.

     

    To Apply:

    Open our Full Time AmeriCorps Member Application

     

    The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work.

  • Half Time AmeriCorps Member (900 hours or 6-12 months)

    The Wild Center (TWC) is seeking highly motivated AmeriCorps members for a 900 hour (~6 month) term, at a natural history museum in the heart of New York State’s Adirondack region. Members are a key part of TWC’s visitor experience and will receive a broad range of interpretive experiences and opportunities. This position promotes leadership skills, development of local natural history knowledge, and best practices in customer service. Members will engage with visitors of all ages and backgrounds on our campus and throughout our community. We are looking for passionate, curious, and motivated people to join our team this year. All AmeriCorps members will share core duties related to visitor experience and community engagement with the option for additional responsibilities being offered to applicants with a particular interest in Climate Change.

     

    AmeriCorps Member Essential Duties and Responsibilities: ALL AmeriCorps Members will:

    • Facilitate interpretive programs for public visitors: including large groups, technology based Science on a Sphere, and outdoor programs (i.e. hikes, canoeing, insect catching).
    • Teach school/afterschool programs to students in person and virtually, incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) activities and utilizing campus resources.
    • Design, implement, and manage community science programming at the local library and schools. 
    • Help maintain outdoor campus, opening and closing duties, trail sweeps, and gardening tasks.
    • Assist with planning and coordinating festivals, trail programs, and the Youth Climate Summit.

    Climate AmeriCorps Members: Above duties for ALL AmeriCorps Members and:

    • Plan and implement climate education activities/workshops/presentations virtually and in-person.
    • Assist with planning and implementation of our annual climate programs including the Educator Retreat, Youth Leadership Retreat, and the Adirondack Youth Climate Summit.

     

    Qualifications:

    • Ability to commit to the half term (900 hours, 6-12 months) of AmeriCorps service. 
    • Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria.
    • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
    • Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service
    • Flexibility and adaptability – we work in a dynamic team setting with shifting duties.
    • Interest in teaching natural history, climate science, and working outdoors throughout the year.
    • Self-motivated – you seek opportunities to learn and grow and can thrive independently.
    • Positive attitude and a willingness to work with people – you must enjoy working and communicating with people, including members of our rural Adirondack community.
    • Organization and time management skills – you will work on multiple tasks concurrently.
    • Maturity and professionalism – you will represent The Wild Center and AmeriCorps.
    • Policies – be prepared to adhere to all Wild Center policies including Covid safety procedure. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination is required as a condition of employment.

     

    Experience & Education:

    • Have a high school diploma or its equivalent or not have dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and must agree to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
    • A college degree is not required to apply for this position. We encourage current college students to apply, as well as non-traditional applicants not pursuing a degree.

     

    Work Schedule:

    • 40 hours per week, including weekends, special events, and occasional mornings and evenings, with two consecutive days off each week.
    • Flexible start date, with AmeriCorps hours to be completed over the course of up to 12 months.
    • Members will be required to attend AmeriCorps-specific service days throughout their term.

     

    Physical Demands:

    • Ability to traverse rolling trails and spend prolonged periods of time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, including extremely cold temperatures.

     

    Compensation & Benefits:

    • Approximately $398/week living allowance, paid bi-monthy for a 6 month term. 
    • $3247.50 Segal Americorps Education award after 900 hours of service.
    • Shared, seasonal housing on The Wild Center property, with all utilities included. Housing may be shared with up to 4 other AmeriCorps members. Housing available from May through November. 
    • May be eligible for federal student loan forbearance during service term.
    • Flexibility with school schedules for students working toward college credit.
    • Professional training: team building, teaching skills, project management, science content knowledge, health and safety, accessibility, customer service, group management, and social emotional health.
    • Training/certifications: CPR & First Aid, Certified Interpretive Guide, Visual Thinking Strategies.
    • Optional water safety and canoe training plus use of canoes, kayaks, and SUP’s outside of work.
    • The Wild Center strives to create an environment where our team thrives both personally and professionally. While life on the job can move at a fast pace, we appreciate the times we can slow down. Whether it’s sharing stories over a staff potluck, being wowed by cool science facts, or taking a break during a meeting to view a cute animal – we make time to grow together as a community.

     

    To Apply:

    Open our Half Time AmeriCorps Member Application

     

    The Wild Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We have a strong dedication to diversity in our community and in the people and groups with which we work.

Welcome to Our Community

Our quaint downtown communities are nestled among the forests with mountain views, endless waterways and encompassed by fresh air. Offering four seasons of outdoor fun and activities for your family and friends is what we are about. From secluded backcountry hiking to winter Olympic facilities and everything in between, you can find it here in Tupper Lake and the surrounding Tri-Lakes communities.

Love Where You Work

I love working at The Wild Center because I get to do something different every day. From teaching visitors about the importance of milkweed for monarchs to creating experiences that will make memories for families, I not only get to pursue my passion for nature, but I also get to share it.

Leanne Favreau, Wild Center Naturalist