Employment at the VSWS
Thank you for considering employment opportunities with the American Bear Association. We are currently hiring for an Education Coordinator position.
Educational Coordinator (Seasonal)
Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary | Orr, Minnesota
May-mid-October
Do you believe education can change the future for wildlife? Are you passionate about bears, conservation, and inspiring others through real-world experiences?
We are seeking a seasonal Educational Coordinator to lead and expand our education programs at the world-famous Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary (VSWS)—the only open classroom on Earth where wild American black bears visit naturally and display true wild behaviors.
This role blends hands-on wildlife work, public education, leadership, and program development in a truly unique setting deep in Minnesota’s North Woods.
About the Sanctuary
More than 50 years ago, Vince Shute chose compassion over conflict, forever changing how people understand black bears. Today, generations of bears still visit his former homestead, now protected as the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary. Through education, observation, and experience, the VSWS works to foster tolerance, respect, and appreciation for black bears.
Position Overview
The Educational Coordinator plays a central role in delivering high-quality educational experiences to the public while training and mentoring interns and volunteers. This position works closely with the Director and Board to shape current and future education programs and outreach initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Education & Public Programs
- Lead and deliver engaging educational talks for visitors on black bear behavior, biology, ecology, and conservation
- Oversee and approve intern-led educational talks; content accuracy, and public speaking
- Coordinate and support on-site programs and special events (e.g., Breakfast with the Bears, photo workshops, group visits)
Intern & Volunteer Leadership
- Train, supervise, and mentor 20+ interns and volunteers daily
- Lead onboarding, bear safety training, check-ins, and exit interviews
- Foster a positive, professional, safety-focused learning environment
Content & Communication
- Create educational photos, videos, and written content for social media, newsletters, Bear Adoptions, and publications
- Ensure educational messaging is accurate, engaging, and consistent across platforms
Sanctuary Operations (Shared Team Responsibilities)
- Assist with bear feeding preparation, cleanup, and food logs
- Participate in physical work including lifting supplies (up to 50 lbs) and maintaining feeding areas
Schedule, Housing & Compensation
- Seasonal position, May through early October
- 40–55 hours per week (hours vary based on bear behavior; weekends and evenings required)
- Salaried position
- Lodging and all meals provided
- Sanctuary vehicle provided for work use only
- Remote setting with limited electricity, water & phone service
Qualifications
- Minimum 1 year of relevant field, education, or leadership experience preferred
- Strong interest in wildlife education, conservation, and public engagement
- Excellent communication, organization, and leadership skills
- Physically fit and comfortable with demanding outdoor work
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-changing environment
- Positive attitude, adaptability, and strong safety awareness required
How to Apply
Submit one MS Word document containing:
- A cover letter explaining why you want to work with bears and conservation education
- Your resume
- Contact information for three professional references
Send applications to: Steph Horner
📧 bears@americanbear.org
We are currently hiring for interns and volunteers for the 2026 season! Stipends apply to those who qualify, meals and lodging included. Please check out our volunteer or internship programs if you’re interested in getting involved.
We are also looking to add a board member to our board of directors. We are specifically looking to add someone that has skills in fundraising, financial advising, advertising and/or grant writing/researching. Please e-mail us at bears@americanbear.org if you think you would be a great fit to our team!
