The primary focus of this position within the Division of Interpretation, Visitor Services, and Outreach at White Sands National Park is to provide exceptional interpretive and front-line visitor services. You will provide orientation, information, and informal interpretation at the visitor center desk, provide interpretive programming, and represent the park at outreach events. Your internship project will be developing interpretive programs and products about the ice age era human and mammal fossilized footprints found in the park that date back between 21,000 – 23,000 years ago. We are seeking an individual who is looking to grow their interpretive skillset, learn more about operations at a busy national park site, and gain knowledge on a variety of topics including geology, biology, paleontology, archeology, indigenous history, and military history. Park staff will provide formal and informal training and mentorship for the intern participating in the SCA project throughout the year.
Location
White Sands National Park, NM
Schedule
November 2, 2026 - January 22, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The intern will staff the visitor center front desk where they will provide orientation, safety information, and informal interpretation. They will research, craft, and present formal and informal interpretive programs. The intern will also research and develop interpretive programs and products about the park’s fossilized footprints.
Marginal Duties
The intern will also provide roving interpretation on topic ranging from safety to sand to wildlife to paleo-archeology. They will also assist with special events and represent the park at community outreach events.
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
N/A
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Park housing is not available for this position. The selectee will be provided with a housing allowance. Affordable housing can be found in the nearby communities of Alamogordo (20 minutes from the park) and Las Cruces (45 minutes to an hour from the park).
Compensation
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Additional Benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country.
After working with the SCA, our members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
As America’s most effective youth conservation service organization, the SCA transforms lives by empowering young people of all backgrounds to plan, act, and lead while they protect and restore our natural and cultural resources.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders while inspiring lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
SCA's mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
