Research Permit Office Assistant

National Park Service • Yellowstone National Park, WY

23d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Permit Office Assistant is an unpaid, project-based student volunteer position supporting Federal missions at Yellowstone National Park. The assignment is in office or at the work site in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, for a 90-day term during Spring 2027, between mid-January and mid-June. The schedule is flexible, with volunteers expected to commit 8–20 hours per week. One position is available.

The volunteer will support the Research Permit Office by digitizing records, helping researchers in the field, sharing information about ongoing research with visitors, maintaining files and supporting documentation, entering data into mapping systems, and assisting with special projects. Participants gain practical experience in Federal operations, receive supervision and Federal mentorship, and develop skills through meaningful project work. Volunteers are not Federal employees and receive no compensation, stipend, hiring preference, leave accrual, or other employee benefits. Coverage includes the Federal Tort Claims Act and workers’ compensation for service-related injuries.

Requirements

• Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national studying in the United States or abroad.
• Be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited educational institution beyond high school throughout the 90-day opportunity; qualifying institutions must be located in the United States.
• Be in good academic standing as defined by the educational institution.
• Not graduate before May 1, 2027.
• Commit to volunteering 8–20 hours per week for a minimum of 90 days.
• Complete required onboarding documentation assigned by the Department of the Interior and the academic institution.
• Agree to volunteer without compensation; volunteers are not Federal employees.
• Not be a current Federal employee.
• Be able to address groups of various sizes.
• Be able to speak with the public about basic scientific concepts.
• Attach a copy of transcripts for verification.
• Provide a school official’s signed Semester of Service approval form confirming at least half-time enrollment and good academic standing.

Responsibilities

• Digitize Research Permit Office records.
• Accompany researchers on fieldwork.
• Provide outreach to visitors about research being conducted.
• Establish and maintain office files.
• Organize supporting documentation.
• Enter data into mapping systems.
• Provide administrative assistance on special projects.

Benefits

• Hands-on experience and career-ready skills through meaningful project work.
• Regular supervision and Federal mentorship.
• Practical application of academic knowledge in Federal operations.
• Exposure to Federal missions, workplace culture, and potential career pathways.
• Federal Tort Claims Act coverage and workers’ compensation for service-related injuries.
• Structured onboarding and ongoing supervision.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed