Individual Placement - Interpretation Participant

Student Conservation Association•Alamogordo, NM

8h•$450•Onsite

About The Position

The primary focus of this position within the Division of Interpretation, Visitor Services, and Outreach at White Sands National Park is to provide exceptional interpretive and front-line visitor services. You will provide orientation, information, and informal interpretation at the visitor center desk, provide interpretive programming, and represent the park at outreach events. Your internship project will be developing interpretive programs and products about the ice age era human and mammal fossilized footprints found in the park that date back between 21,000 – 23,000 years ago. We are seeking an individual who is looking to grow their interpretive skillset, learn more about operations at a busy national park site, and gain knowledge on a variety of topics including geology, biology, paleontology, archeology, indigenous history, and military history. Park staff will provide formal and informal training and mentorship for the intern participating in the SCA project throughout the year.

Requirements

Customer service experience
Willingness to speak in front of large groups of people
Ability to work as a part of a team
Ability to communicate effectively
Willingness to learn
A valid driver’s license and a personal vehicle are required
The selectee will be required to pass a National Park Service background check.

Responsibilities

Staff the visitor center front desk where they will provide orientation, safety information, and informal interpretation.
Research, craft, and present formal and informal interpretive programs.
Research and develop interpretive programs and products about the park’s fossilized footprints.
Provide roving interpretation on topics ranging from safety to sand to wildlife to paleo-archeology.
Assist with special events and represent the park at community outreach events.