Hello U.S. Military Veterans! Are you wanting to start a career in a natural resource field? Continue reading to find out more about Vets Work; a paid internship program specifically for veterans who are interested in starting a career with agencies like the National Park Service. Position Title - Interpretive Park Guide Partner Organization - Badlands National Park Partner Website - www.nps.gov/badl Project Location - 25216 Ben Reifel Rd., Interior, South Dakota, 57750 Service Dates - March 17, 2025, to January 23, 2026 (45 week, 1700-hour position) Position Summary - In partnership with the Mt. Adams Institute (MAI), Badlands National Park will sponsor a Vets Work Ameri Corps Intern to serve as an Interpretive Park Guide. The Intern will work in the primary visitor center for the North Unit of Badlands National Park and is responsible for daily visitor center operations, including providing visitors with accurate information on park resources and cultural history, safety, as well as access information for the surrounding region. The Intern will serve as a front-line representative providing informal interpretive opportunities and programs such as walks, talks, and demonstrations. Programs are prepared and developed to showcase the rugged beauty of the Badlands while highlighting one of the world’s richest fossil beds. This position could expose the individual to many divisions/jobs in the National Park Service. During the peak season (May-September), duties will be focused in the Interpretation division while off-peak months typically offer more opportunities to work with other divisions. Additional experience may include working with/performing Search & Rescue operations with park SAR team, maintaining/repairing historical structures and resources with maintenance personnel, and participating in the annual park “Bison Roundup” with park scientists. Efforts will be made to match duties with interests and/or education. The supervisor has the flexibility to change the intern’s schedule as opportunities arise. Benefits -
Monthly living allowance
Education award
Free, government housing available
Student loan forbearance
Professional development, training and networking opportunities
Vets Work is an apprenticeship program approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Labor. Members with G.I. Bill benefits may be able to dual enroll as an apprentice and access their Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) of up to approximately $2,400 per month. Actual benefits vary by individuals’ qualified benefits.
Essential Functions - to include, but not limited to:
Prepare and present formal programs highlighting geology, paleontology, history, astronomy, and park resources that meet NPS standards for professional interpretation.
Assist Education staff by creating conservation programs to engage local youth.
Ensure informal contacts appropriately meet the needs of the visitor and move to interpretation as opportunities are recognized.
Staff the visitor center desk, greet and engage visitors while responding to individual needs, providing accurate and appropriate information, orientation, and interpretation.
Assist with special events and community outreach programs.
Create written interpretive content for use on park social media platforms and website.
Possible cross-training opportunities with various park divisions including Law Enforcement, Resource Management, Maintenance and other parks including Buffalo Gap National Grassland and Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.
Position Requirements - to include, but not limited:
Must have a valid driver's license, clean driving record, and ability to provide documentation when requested.
Comfortable with public speaking in front of both large and small groups.
Be a team player and be willing to assist with all tasks in positive manner.
Have a keen interest in learning interpretive and conservation education delivery techniques.
Interested in learning/educating about the resources of Badlands National Park.
Strong customer service skills and enjoys helping people of all ages and levels of understanding.
Ability to hike 5-7 miles.
Safety conscious for yourself and others.
Willing to work various schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Must have served in the Uniformed Services of the United States, including Guard and Reserves and have a DD214 with an honorable discharge.
At least 21 years of age at beginning of service term.
U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
Ability to commit to the full 45-week term of service.
Selection, placement, and retention are contingent upon passing the National Sex Offender Public Registry, state of service and state of residence criminal history check, and a national FBI check.
Must follow all health and safety policies and procedures, including any changes that are implemented throughout the course of the program. Accepting a position means accepting the current requirements and any updates to those requirements while enrolled in the program.
Visit https://mtadamsinstitute.org/vetswork to review:
The full position description
A Vets Work Program Overview and FAQ
Additional open Vets Work opportunities and locations
Application steps
Contact erica@mtadamsinstitute.org, Recruitment Coordinator, for further information or if you have questions about the Vets Work program. Job Types: Full-time, Internship Pay: $2,000.00 - $2,500.00 per month Benefits:
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Application Question(s):
Are you able to commit to the full 45 weeks of the internship program?
Why are you interested in this internship position? Applicants will not be considered if the question is not answered.
Do you live within 1 hour of Interior, SD or are you willing to relocate for the duration of the program?