Fellowships at NOLS

NOLS works to create and foster an inclusive environment that embraces and leverages the various dimensions of diversity of our staff. We believe every person, regardless of race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, or multiple other facets of diversity, should have access and the opportunity to work for NOLS.

The school desires to remain relevant and adaptable to diverse populations and committed to their inclusion in the outdoor industry. Fellowships at NOLS are opportunities for promising young grads of color who are interested in working in the outdoor field to gain valuable experience working for NOLS. This program builds a bridge for these students between graduating from NOLS and pursuing a career at NOLS or in the field of outdoor education.

Open locations:

• NOLS Southwest: September to mid-December

Contact: Interested individuals should send a resume and cover letter to NOLS Diversity and Inclusion Manager Aparna Rajagopal-Durbin at aparna@nols.edu.

Application Deadline: April 30, 2013

Position Description: Gain a broad understanding of NOLS’ operations by assisting in a variety of support services positions at a NOLS location within the U.S. (NOLS Pacific Northwest, NOLS Alaska, NOLS Southwest, NOLS Teton Valley, NOLS Rocky Mountain, the NOLS Rocky Mountain River Base, and NOLS Headquarters).

Requirements:

• At least 21 years old, with some exceptions on a case-by-case basis
• NOLS graduate
• Clean driving record
• U.S. citizen
• Ethnically American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, or multiracial (categories defined by the EEOC, U.S. Census Bureau).
• High level of initiative, attention to detail, flexibility, self-motivation, sense of humor and tolerance.
• Punctual, dependable and excellent "expedition behavior" in a communal living environment.
• Competence with Apple computers as well as MS Word and Excel.
• Excellent critical thinking and communication skills
• Ability to work well in a dynamic environment and adjust priorities quickly
• Understanding and passion for the NOLS mission
• Physically able to bend, stoop, crouch, lift (up to 40 lbs.), frequent walk, and stand for extended periods of time.

Compensation: $320/week

Food and Lodging: Housing and most food is provided at NOLS Pacific Northwest, NOLS Alaska, and the NOLS Rocky Mountain River Base. Housing and some food (season depending) is provided at NOLS Teton Valley, and NOLS Southwest. Housing is not provided at NOLS Rocky Mountain, but meals may be provided depending on course schedules.

Duration: 3 months during fall, spring/winter, or summer season. Dates are above but there is some flexibility.

Expectations: Depending upon locations, fellows may:

• Plan, bag, and box student rations; create spice kits
• Issue and de-issue student gear for courses; prepare and repair gear
• Update off-trail guides and map inventory.
• Assist with location-specific initiatives such as lowering pack weights and environmental sustainability efforts
• Assist in planning and preparing in-town meals
• Act as liaison between NOLS Diversity & Inclusion and Gateway Partner scholarship students who come through the branch.
• Other projects and duties as assigned

Fellows interested in in-town employment with NOLS are expected to proactively work toward obtaining employment. Employment opportunities may include working as part of a domestic location’s support staff in operations, logistics, transportation, rations, outfitting, or other administrative capacities.

These jobs are of limited availability but can be excellent ways to become familiar with the school and an operating location, even for Fellows interested in becoming NOLS field instructors. Although the supervisor will send Fellows job announcements as appropriate, the Fellows are expected to respond accordingly if they are interested in a job.

Skill Development / Special Opportunities May Include:

• Defensive driving training
• Evacuation driving
• Riding on horseback to a re-ration or to evacuate a student
• Participating in NOLS school meetings and trainings (as availability allows)
• Exposure to a variety of skills and expertise needed to operate a wilderness-based experiential education school
• Outdoor trips with other interns and NOLS employees to develop technical skills

Post Fellowship: Fellows must be willing to serve as a NOLS ambassador for a minimum of one year following their fellowship, specifically working with NOLS to help with outreach and marketing efforts. In addition, Fellows will serve on a student advisory council working with the NOLS Diversity and Inclusion Manager to help further the school’s strategic goals.

Criminal Background Check: A criminal background check is required for all NOLS employees.

Contact: Interested individuals should send a resume and cover letter to NOLS Diversity and Inclusion Manager Aparna Rajagopal-Durbin at aparna@nols.edu.