Night Sky Interpretation Intern - ONSITE - Canyonlands National Park

Environment for the Americas • Moab, UT

2d • $688 - $688 • Onsite

About The Position

This internship supports Canyonlands National Park’s night sky interpretation program. The intern will work with experienced night sky educators and the park’s lead ranger to develop and deliver interpretive programs, assist with astronomy events, enhance community outreach, and contribute long-term educational resources. The role offers training in science communication, public speaking, interpretive design, curriculum development, and partnership-based environmental education.

Requirements

• Interest in astronomy, natural sciences, cultural heritage, environmental education, or science communication (no previous astronomy coursework required).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to connect with diverse audiences.
• Comfort with public speaking or willingness to improve interpretive presentation skills.
• Ability to work outdoors at night in remote desert conditions with careful attention to safety.
• Basic research, writing, and interpretive content-development skills.
• Professionalism, reliability, and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with park staff, partner organizations, volunteers, and youth groups.
• Commitment to inclusion, community engagement, and equitable access to science and public lands.
• Valid driver's license.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Be between the ages of 18–30, or up to 35 if a veteran
• Be willing to undergo a background check upon hiring
• Have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record
• A personal vehicle is required for this position.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and orient visitors at the front desk, assist with trip planning, and provide general park information.
• Develop two 20-minute ranger talks (one on Canyonlands geology and one on a topic of choice) and expand these into a 45-minute night sky program incorporating constellation storytelling, cultural perspectives, and dark sky preservation.
• Present interpretive programs to the public throughout the internship.
• Support major astronomy events such as AstroFest, the Perseids meteor shower, and night sky photography programs through logistics, visitor engagement, and interpretive contributions.
• Shadow experienced rangers to build night sky interpretation skills and provide peer coaching to seasonal staff as confidence increases.
• Participate in youth and community outreach events, including Community Arts & Agriculture Day, the Summer Lunch Program, Youth Garden Project, and the Moab Science Festival.

What This Job Offers

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