Interpretation Member - Niobrara National Scenic River

EPIC • Valentine, NE

10d

About The Position

As an ACE Interpretation & Education Intern, you will play a hands‑on role in connecting visitors, youth, and local communities with the natural resources of the Niobrara National Scenic River. Interns assist with planning, preparing, and delivering our monthly public fishing clinics, helping introduce participants of all ages to safe, responsible, and enjoyable angling on the Niobrara. Duties may include setting up clinic stations, engaging visitors, helping manage gear, supporting partner‑led activities, and contributing creative ideas to enhance program outreach. Interns will also help develop and present birding‑themed interpretive talks and activities, supporting our site's growing suite of wildlife education opportunities. This may include crafting short presentations, guided walks, or youth‑centered bird programs that inspire curiosity and strengthen public connection to the river's diverse bird species. This position is ideal for applicants interested in conservation education, community engagement, and hands‑on field programming. Interns gain practical interpretive experience, build partnerships alongside staff and volunteers, and help deliver high‑quality public programs that support the mission of the Niobrara National Scenic River. This individual placement is meant to facilitate professional development and promotes exposure to land management agencies and networking with professionals. This could include gaining experience in different conservation fields and shadowing different work groups.

Requirements

• Members must be authorized to work in the United States. ACE does not provide sponsorship for employment visas.
• Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner.
• Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group.
• A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request).
• Members must be 21+ to drive due to ACE's insurance and liability requirements.
• Willing to undergo and must pass the required criminal history checks
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation.
• Member may not participate in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.

Nice To Haves

• Competitive applicants for this position can hold or be pursuing a science, outdoor recreation, or similar degree and/or have relevant experience in subject areas such as geology, interpretation, public speaking, or history.
• Knowledge of canoeing or kayaking (optional).
• Ability and willingness to teach people.
• Deep interest in geology, birds, fish, water, history or something similar.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning, preparing, and delivering monthly public fishing clinics.
• Set up clinic stations and engage visitors.
• Help manage gear and support partner-led activities.
• Contribute creative ideas to enhance program outreach.
• Develop and present birding-themed interpretive talks and activities.
• Craft short presentations, guided walks, or youth-centered bird programs.

Benefits

• Living Allowance: The ACE Member is expected to contribute ~40 hours/week and will receive a living allowance of $625/week to offset the costs of food and incidental expenses, dispersed bi-weekly.
• AmeriCorps Education Award Program: This position may be eligible for an 450-hour AmeriCorps Education Award while serving under the EAP 2025/26 grant year program, valued up to $1,956.35 upon successful completion of a complete service term and 450hrs.
• Loan Forbearance: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for federal loan forbearance. Additional enrollment steps are required.
• Qualifying Child Care Coverage: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for qualifying child care coverage. Additional enrollment steps are required.
• Public Land Corps Hiring Authority: Members may be eligible for a federal hiring authority upon completion of their term of service and 640 hours of service.
• Housing : ACE members will be accommodated in provided housing!
• Reimbursable Housing Allowance : ACE members will have access to up to $300 monthly to be used towards housing costs. Not to exceed $1,200.
• Relocation Allowance: ACE members will have access to up to $250 to be used for eligible relocation expenses.
• Provided Training/Orientation: ACE members will receive position specific training and an orientation outlining ACE policies and procedures, clear guidance on prohibited activities, and networks for support.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed