United States Department of the Interior

Program: United States Department of the Interior - National Park Service - First State National Historical Park

Program Description

This position is located at First State National Historical Park in Delaware within the Interpretation, Education and Volunteer division. The position will help to inform visitors about park facilities and resources through formal or informal programs, casual conversations, or through digital media. Duties are performed on or off-site at locations designated by the position supervisor (e.g. visitor centers, historical sites, auditoriums, schools, universities, etc). As assigned, the position may also assist with other duties, e.g. gathering routine information for reports, compilation of statistical data, trail work, etc. The work requires some physical exertion and can involve extensive periods of standing and walking, in some cases over rough surfaces or inclines outdoors, and carrying backpacks, tools, or other loads.The work can include moderate risks or discomforts that require safety precautions (e.g. exposure to extreme temperatures, climates, rough terrain, wild animals, pests, and/or insects). The incumbent may be required to use protective clothing or gear, such as masks, boots, gloves.

Job Description

This internship sits under the Division of Interpterion, Education, & Volunteers and will involve engaging with the public. To do so, the internship will involve daily or weekly tasks that fall under the following categories, in no particularorder:Visitor Services and Facility Operations: Perform the routine activities of a visitor facility and/or information desk and aid in coordinating day-to-day operations. Ensure that visitor information materials are in supply. Operate a variety of audiovisual and other equipment used in connection with visitor facilities, visitor centers, museums, etc. Periodically inspect the physical and operational condition of visitor facility assets. Report damage and/or malfunctions. Respond to electronic, telephone, or written inquiries from the public. Orient, educate, and inform visitors regarding access and opportunities to participate in and contribute to memorable experiences. Resource Monitoring & Resource Protection: Review existing park policies, standards, methods, controls, and procedures. Rove Park areas and explain regulations to park visitors and provide information and advice on park activities and cultural, historical, and/or natural resources. May patrol park areas and identify and report resource and/or visitor compliance problems to higher level Park Rangers, specialists, and/or supervisor.Training: Participate in the development and/or deployment of standardized training activities. Mentor and/or coach interpretive programs and products conducted by fellow interpreters through peer review. Participate in the onboarding and the orientation of new employees, volunteers, interns, and other partners. Support an inclusive and collaborative environment. May develop portions of specific lesson plans, training sessions, developmental opportunities, and courses of curriculum that meet specific training objectives. May make logistical arrangements to support training and coaching activities (e.g., scheduling instructors, arranging venues, preparing materials and marketing, and maintaining records).Interpretation & Communication: Develop and present formal and informal audience and learner-centered interpretive experiences using well-established and commonly known interpretive skills, techniques, and tools delivered in-person and through interpretive media and technology. Conduct basic research on specific topics and synthesize the knowledge gained from research to develop interpretive experiences that are clearly consistent with the strategic goals and objectives of park interpretation. Compile scientific and/or historical research from a variety of sources, while acknowledging the potential impact of the interpreter’s bias. Select and organize material to be presented to fit the purposes of the interpretive program and the type of group for which it is intended.Engage the public through presenting a series of formal structured programs (e.g., walks, talks, tours, presentations, demonstrations, events, virtual interactions) of limited complexity and/or recurring nature, and through informal contacts/conversations with the public. Facilitate and support opportunities for audiences to understand national significance and personal relevance through intellectual and emotional connections to resource meanings and their current context. Use informal and formal contacts with the public to learn about audiences and their knowledge and interest in park resources, themes, and related topics.Connect with various audiences through digital content (e.g., the web, social media, mobile technology, live broadcast or distance programming, podcasts, virtual tours) to introduce, inform, engage, and strengthen relationships between the public and their national parks. Contribute engaging and quality content that requires minimal research and study. Write basic interpretive and informational content that: meets accessibility standards; uses images that communicate story or intent; is clear, engaging, and to the point; incorporates basic design principles; and follows all established NPS graphic identity and content standards. Contribute to the publishing and maintenance of current, time-sensitive information for the safety, health, and knowledge of visitors.Work collaboratively within a team environment for cross-divisional coordination, unified messaging, internal communication, and quality control.Project Coordination: Coordinate specific phases or limited components of special projects (e.g., special events, youth initiatives, teacher workshops, regional or national committees). Collect and/or review data for inclusion in project plans. Aid in resolving recurring problems.

Eligibility

Current Service member preparing to be released from Active DutyMust possess a valid Commercial Driver's License Class ABasic computer skillsNo housing is provided. Must be withing local commuting distance or willing to relocate.Must be able to commit to at least 12 weeks.Ability to commute to and from park sites.Willingness to speak in public to effectively express ideas and concepts to a wide range of audiences.Successfully pass a background check.Ability to speak Spanish is helpful but not required.