Ecology Apprenticeship at The Wilds (2026)

Overview

The Wilds is one of the largest and most innovative conservation centers in the world, offering diverse training programs for early career professionals. The Wilds has nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed mineland and remnant forest patches that present multiple opportunities for field research in habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring. Additionally, Ecology facilities include a Hellbender Conservation Center, American Burying Beetle breeding center, and the Conservation Science Training Center which includes a population genetics laboratory. Restoration activities include prairie, wetland, stream, lake, forest, and forest understory management and research.

Ecology Apprentices can focus on either restoration or wildlife research from a list of focal projects. Apprentices gain hands-on experience and receive field training. If time allows, apprentices may have opportunities to participate in projects beyond their specific research focus.

Past apprentices have gone on to careers in wildlife conservation, ecological research, and graduate programs.

Application Requests: When applying, please submit your resume with references and a cover letter. Please outline your interest in the position, what you would hope to gain from it, and how your prior experience makes you an ideal candidate. Please be sure to specify which focal priority (restoration or wildlife) you are most interested in and whether you are applying for the 6 month or summer apprenticeship.

Responsibilities

• Potential Trainings: Field methods (species identification, survey protocols, research methodology), laboratory methods (genetic techniques, microscope work), GPS & GIS applications/map making, biological monitoring and application of wildlife research techniques and/or land management and restoration techniques.
• Apprentices will conduct an independent scientific research project from an approved list and will communicate their findings to Wilds and Columbus Zoo employees at the end of their term.
• Apprentices may work on several learning activities or project components and will receive guidance on how to prioritize them.
• In 2026 we are offering  
  • 3 6-month apprenticeships (May-Oct)
  • 2 Summer apprenticeships (May-July)
• Please indicate in your cover letter which apprenticeship (wildlife or restoration) and timeline (6 months or summer) you are applying for.

Qualifications

• Second Year College Student or recent graduate (2 years or less) in Ecology, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Restoration, Wildlife Management, or related field.
• Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing.
• Scheduled operational hours can be within Monday-Friday 8 am-4:30 pm.
• Apprentices will follow established safety protocols and program guidelines and will receive guidance and feedback throughout their apprenticeship.
• Strong time‑management and organizational skills.
• Position requires hiking and some physically demanding tasks, including outdoor work throughout the seasons. This may include hot, buggy, cold or otherwise challenging conditions. Participants should be prepared with appropriate field gear and footwear.
• Candidates should be eager for learning opportunities, open to practicing new skills, and comfortable working in a dynamic field environment.
• Able to lift and move up to 10lbs. constantly, 30lbs. frequently, and 50lbs. occasionally.
• Possession of a valid current state issued motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required.
• Ability to provide reliable transportation to and from The Wilds.
• The Wilds is a large, multi‑site conservation facility. Interns may need to travel short distances between learning sites on property. Interns may be asked to use their personal vehicle for this purpose. All driving is aligned with educational activities, and a safety orientation is provided. Reasonable accommodations may be available if needed.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple learning activities effectively.
• Apprentices must follow organizational policies related to safety, conduct, and a drug‑free workplace.
• Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check.

This apprenticeship is designed to provide structured, hands‑on training and professional development for individuals interested in conservation science.

Apprentices receive structured training and work under close supervision. Their work complements, but does not replace, the work performed by paid staff.

Apprentices do not receive monetary compensation; however, the position allows participants to customize their apprenticeship to gain and enhance skills that will be most beneficial for their future careers and is particularly well suited to prepare participants for graduate school or work in a conservation organization. Opportunities for school credit are available.

All apprenticeships at the Wilds are competitive and we value placing individuals in programs that suit their career goals.

Housing: On-site shared housing is available and costs $250.00 per month. This includes all utilities, internet, and laundry facilities.

Transportation: Students must provide their own transportation.

Insurance: Students must provide their own health and driving insurance.

Expenses: Students are responsible for all expenses.

Start and End Dates: 6-month apprenticeships run May 1st to October 31st; Summer apprenticeships run May 1st to July 31st. There is flexibility in start and end dates depending on school schedules if applicable.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.