Individual Placement - Interpretation Participant

Position Summary 

This individual placement is designed to expand interpretive operations at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park and support research that aligns with NPS goals for improved visitor experiences. Individuals will help gather new primary and secondary information that highlights park themes and stories, contributing to future interpretive products such as the rehabilitation of visitor experiences and building an immersive digital NPS app. Throughout the position, participants will engage in daily interpretive services including visitor center operations, guided and informal talks, program development, Junior Ranger activities, and general park support. They will also conduct foundational research to broaden the park’s narrative in accordance with the park’s Long Range Interpretive Plan. Ultimately, the project aims to develop individual's professional skills while fostering meaningful visitor connections to the Creek War battlefield for a broader understanding of the impact of this historic site.

Hosting Organization

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Location 

Daviston, AL

Schedule 

June 22, 2026 - June 18, 2027

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The individual’s primary duties will be staffing the visitor center desk and conducting interpretive programming for; the public. The Individual will work closely with volunteers, NPS, staff members, and park partners to provide information and informal interpretation in the visitor center settings. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for a variety of traditional ranger programs including interpretive tours, museum talks, guided hikes, educational programs for school groups, and aiding in specially scheduled tours of the battlefield. There is a strong emphasis on incorporating audience-centered techniques into programs and ensuring that all programs meet the new standards set forth in the Foundations of 21st Century Interpretation and TORE: Making a Difference on Purpose. There is a renewed focus to reach new audiences, explore contemporary meanings of the battlefield, and further our efforts to engage the local community, as well as our robust visiting public.

Marginal Duties 

• Collateral duties may include helping with social media platforms, historic weapons demonstrations, audio-visual maintenance, interpretive writing, clerical duties, and other duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications 

• Interns must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident
• Willing and able to represent SCA in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner
• Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group
• Possess a valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request)
• Willing to undergo and must pass the required two-part criminal history check
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation

Preferred Qualifications 

• Competitive applicants for this position can hold or be pursuing any collegiate degree program and/or have relevant experience in subject areas such as History, American history, World history, Military history, the War of 1812, and the Creek War
• Knowledge of the causes of the Creek War is preferred
• Ability and willingness to be present and active in learning and development, understanding the field of interpretation skill sets, and attentive to assigned duties
• Deep interest in being part of a strong team that is rebuilding the interpretation division and participating in accomplishing the goal for broader perspectives told here.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Hours 

• 40 per week

Living Accommodations 

• The park has shared housing available.

Compensation  

• Living allowance $600 a week

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

• Recommended

Additional Benefits 

• Defensive Driving Training
• Interpretive Skills
• Off-Road Vehicle Safety
• AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.

Salary : $600