Interpretation, Education, and Visitor Services - Research and Projects Enhancement Intern

Overview

Position Title: Interpretation, Education, and Visitor Services - Research and Projects Enhancement Intern

Program Dates: May 11, 2026 - July 31, 2026

Location: Nicholasville, KY

Compensation: $17.20/hour | 40 hours per week

The Greening Youth Foundation (GYF) is proud to partner with the National Park Service (NPS) through the InternXL Internship Program, offering impactful internship experiences for students and recent graduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This initiative is part of our ongoing mission to build pathways for young Black professionals in public service and conservation careers.

We are currently recruiting 10 InternXL interns to serve at culturally and historically significant NPS sites, where they will support interpretation, education, descendant and community engagement, and preservation work.

Camp Nelson National Monument is a newly created unit of the National Park Service. This internship will provide opportunities to work within and learn about how the NPS interprets and provides visitor services at a Civil War to Civil Rights site. This internship will also be a unique opportunity to be involved with building the Interpretive and Education division and the visitor services at a new NPS site.

Additionally, this internship will also be a chance to conduct research needed to advance the understanding and interpretation of Camp Nelson National Monument.

• Orientation to the NPS Mission and how that mission is achieved at Camp Nelson NM and other units of the NPS.
• Orientation and training on visitor services operations at the park Visitor Center and Reconstructed Barracks as well as creating and conducting guided programs on the grounds.
• Conducting research on US Colored Troops, Freedom Seekers, and Refugees in Kentucky especially those who were at Camp Nelson during the Civil War.
• Assisting in content creation for the park website, social media and podcast.
• Engaging with visitors during special events, field trips, tours, outreach events and more!
• Develop STEM focused education materials and programs in a historical context

It is our intent that the intern would learn or enhance from this experience – active listening, organization, brainstorming, documentation, communication skills, public speaking, networking, and a general understanding of the NPS. The intern will take part in a comprehensive new employee training led by NPS staff at the start of their program. NPS staff will schedule weekly meetings and check-ups with the intern during the summer.

The Supervisor will provide a written performance review at the conclusion of the internship.

This partnership aims to inspire the next generation of leaders by promoting diversity within the National Park Service, showcasing the achievements of leaders from varied backgrounds to encourage and inspire scholars. It also creates a passion for conservation by immersing interns in hands-on efforts that build a deep appreciation for environmental stewardship and sustainability. With a focus on STEM careers, the partnership equips students with critical knowledge and skills to address the increasing demand for professionals in technology, engineering, mathematics, and science fields.

Interns gain valuable research experience, developing transferable skills like data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication that prepare them for academic and professional success.

• Must be a senior or recent graduate of an HBCU (within the past 2 years)
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Must be able to commit to a 12-week, full-time internship

This paid opportunity provides hands-on experience, professional development, and a chance to make a lasting impact on how history is preserved and shared through our national parks.

If this sounds like you — apply now and be a part of the 2026 InternXL cohort!