Stephen F. Austin State University

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work as a park ranger? Are you eager to enhance your abilities as an interpreter? If so, Theodore Roosevelt National Park could offer the ideal experience.

About the Park

When Theodore Roosevelt came to Dakota Territory to hunt bison in 1883, he was a skinny, young, spectacled dude from New York. He could not have imagined how his adventure in this remote and unfamiliar place would forever alter the course of the nation. The rugged landscape and strenuous life that TR experienced here would help shape a conservation policy that we still benefit from today.

About the Position

Park interpreters are the public face of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Interns, with support from experienced rangers, are responsible for researching, preparing, and presenting a range of interpretive programs, including guided hikes and interpretive talks on the park’s interpretive themes (e.g., wildlife, geology, ecology, and human history). These programs are given in a variety of park locations such as campgrounds, trails, visitor centers, and Roosevelt’s cabin. In addition, interns assist in visitor centers providing information and orientation to visitors.

Interns receive 80 hours of formal training including: how to conduct an interpretive programs, customer service, safety, park resources and operations. Additional training and professional development opportunities are also available within other departments (e.g., resource management, visitor resource protection and administration).

If you love learning, sharing what you’ve learned with others, and working hard in a team environment, these positions prove to be incredibly rewarding.

Schedule

Summer interns work a full-time schedule, 40 hour a week, over the course of 12 – 16 weeks, from May 12, 2025 to September 30, 2025. Working on weekends and holidays may be required.

Living Expenses & Housing

Interns are reimbursed for living expenses at the rate of $210 a week. A travel allowance will be provided. The park provides shared housing, name tags, and uniform shirts.

Apply by February 7, 2025 to guarantee consideration for this summer internship