State of Washington ยท 1 month ago
Interpretive Naturalist Intern (Mount St. Helen's Visitor Center)
The State of Washington is offering a 2026 Spring Internship at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center. The role involves assisting with educational programming, visitor services, and interpretive services while gaining hands-on experience in environmental education.
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Responsibilities
Assist at the front desk: welcoming visitors/schools/tour groups, disseminating information about the local area, directions to nearby attractions, recreational recommendations, and answering questions about Mount St. Helens
Assist in the expansion of Interpretive services throughout the Upper Cowlitz Area: helping with the development of youth program supplies, self-guided educational materials to connect people to parks, and volunteer support resources in preparation for summer
Assist with school field trips: spring is a busy season with students, and educational nature programs are offered at the State Park visitor center/nearby day-use sites, the USFS Science and Learning Center, and in the field with MSHI
Assist with daily maintenance of the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center: light cleaning of the building, janitorial services, landscape beautification, and trail work
Qualification
Required
Must be a recent graduate or currently enrolled in a local college and completing a degree in Natural Resource Sciences, Geology, Ecology, History, Education or a related field
Good customer service skills and the ability to speak clearly to large groups of varying age and background
Ability to communicate with fellow staff and follow guidance
Must have a valid driver's license and the ability to provide their own transportation. May be asked to drive parks' vehicles between parks and visitor center sites
Preferred
Interest in interpretation or teaching and expanding communication skills
Has the ability to meet visitor needs efficiently and effectively in a busy Visitor Center and park
Positive attitude and ability to work well with others; being a team player
Good organizational skills and follow-through. Motivated self-starter
Open to sharing ideas and accepting possible peer-review and input
Ability to use Microsoft Office and/or PowerPoint and familiarity with digital platforms
Comfortable and confident using a computer, camera/tripod, and basic office equipment
Arrive on time daily and perform duties in a timely manner
Willingness to work a flexible schedule as needed, required to work most weekends