Interpretation and Visitor Services Participant

Conservation Begins Here

Interpretation and Visitor Services Participant

Position Summary 

With provided training, you will research, prepare, and present formal and informal interpretive programs including talks and guided tours. These programs will focus on the environmental resources of the area, including the vital role the Saugus River has played to human and wildlife. These programs will be suitable for all ages, but special attention will be paid to providing content for school aged children, including organized groups (camps, classes) and families. The ideal candidate for this position will help connect visitors of all ages to the historical and natural significance of the Saugus River.

Location 

Saugus, MA

Schedule 

August 4, 2025 - December 20, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Develop and present formal interpretive programs (50%); Staff visitor center (25%); Provide roving interpretation to on-site visitors (25%). The work week will be 5 days including weekends and holidays, 8 hours per day. Conditions may require working outside in hot, windy, or wet weather and long periods of standing each day. This position is ideal for outgoing individuals or those looking to obtain the skills needed for a career in the visitor services sector. While stationed at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a majority of the internship, this intern will also report to Salem Maritime National Historic Site later in the season. These two NPS units are roughly 9 miles apart from each other.

Marginal Duties 

While the main focus of the internship is to deliver interpretive programs, you also will also be an integral member of the Visitor Experience and Community Engagement (VECE) team and given the opportunity to develop the skills of an Interpretive Park Ranger. You will do this by staffing the visitor center, designing and presenting formal interpretive programs, and providing roving (outdoor) informal interpretation. This professional experience might lead to future career opportunities with the National Park Service and/or other federal land management agencies.

Required Qualifications 

• Highly qualified applicants should have good public speaking, writing, and research skills
• A desire to work with children of all ages
• Have a friendly and cheerful personality to work well with the public
• You must have the ability to receive instructions and work independently

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.

Preferred Qualifications 

Positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Housing is not provided for this position.

Compensation  

• Living Allowance - $750/week
• Commuting Allowance - $35/week

Note: this position does not offer a To/From Travel Grant.

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits 

• Introduction to interpretation training
• Audience-centered experience (ACE) training

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.