A major focus of this internship is to rewrite and redesign the park Junior Ranger booklet, incorporating a consistent style of artwork, new resource themes (such as climate change, soundscapes and dark night skies), executing layout and design, and producing a product for publication. Formal interpretation will consist of learning and presenting established programs for mixed audiences (mostly children and their families) at the park nature center, at the visitor center and at cultural sites, and an evening presentation for campground users.  The Intern may also research, develop and present original programs. Informal interpretation will consist of staffing the nature center (two days/week), historic schoolhouse and visitor center; and providing accurate information to park visitors about safety, regulations, park and area features, resources, facilities, and recreational and educational opportunities. The Intern will support the existing Junior Ranger Program at the nature center, evaluating its effectiveness, and working with park staff to identify improvements and execute redesign.

This work requires graphic arts skills (for redesign of Junior Ranger booklet), the ability to evaluate an existing product, the capacity to learn information quickly, strong visitor service skills, strong communication skills, and teamwork. People who enjoy working with the public (particularly with youth), who have motivated and creative personalities, and who can work independently to meet deadlines will be excellent candidates for this position.  Orientation and training will be provided by Great Basin Institute and Capital Reef National Park. The Interpretation Intern will gain first-hand experience in producing a publication, including research, design development, and product evaluation; learn appropriate methods for assessing visitors’ needs and providing superior customer service; and gain experience in public speaking.

Compensation

Living Allowance: $17,245.40 (allocated biweekly)
Education Award: $5,775 (May be used for past, present or future educational expenses, including payment of qualifying federal student loans.)
Health and dental benefits

Housing: The park will provide housing in a 5-6-bedroom dormitory. The intern will have a private room with a shared bath, shared kitchen and common areas. The dormitory includes all appliances, coin-operated washer and dryer, some kitchen pots, pans and dishes.  Internet service may be provided. Heat, electricity and water are included. A phone is available in each dorm and long distance calls can be made with a calling card. Housing is located approximately a 5 minute walk from the duty station.

Timeline

February to December 2017(46-week appointment)

Location

Capitol Reef National Park is located near Torrey, UT. The location is remote. The nearest gas station is 10 miles away and the nearest grocery store is approximately 35 miles away. A personal vehicle is required for travel/transport outside of work. There is currently no cell service in housing or near the duty station and it is spotty in other locations. Reliable cellular service is usually only found when nearing Torrey. The intern should find living in a remote location desirable. Located in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef NP is filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges. In addition to unique geological resources, the park also has a rich cultural history.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree – or coursework and relevant experience – in Environmental Education or field related to the position description;
Experience developing and presenting interpretive programs for a diverse audience;
Experience with youth programs;
Comfortable interacting with the public and public speaking;
Familiarity with the cultural and natural resources of the Colorado Plateau or Four-Corners Region strongly preferred;
Experience with desktop publishing (familiarity with Adobe InDesign preferred), and with Microsoft Office, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint;
Graphic arts (layout and design) and art production (research and procure artwork) skills;
Willingness to work as part of a team and independently to accomplish the goals and mission of NPS and GBI;
Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards), (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and federal criminal background checks, (4) adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and (5) not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.