My time as a Historical Interpreter Intern at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park has been some of the most fulfilling months of my life. Unsure that a career in the National Park Service was right for me, I quickly discovered my love for interpretation and sharing the stories of such important places in our country's narrative. The incredible staff made interns feel nothing but welcomed, encouraged us where needed, but were also super receptive to all our interests and comfort levels. The friendships I've made this summer will undoubtedly last a lifetime. Not to mention the important skills I've gained and developed this summer - from research and public speaking, to confidence and empathy, to critical thinking and asking the tough questions - I will take all of these with me as I move forward with my career in the NPS. I highly recommend this experience for anyone remotely interested in a career with the NPS or public history - or anyone who's looking for an exciting, meaningful way to spend their summer.
Shannon Doherty, Interpretation Intern, Summer/Fall 2021
An internship with Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park provides an unforgettable, invaluable experience.
While we offer a variety of internships, the most plentiful position is in the Branch of Interpretation and Eduction. Summer interns can expect to work 5 days a week. Spring and fall interns work 2-5 days per week. Weekend work may be required. Other internships are offered as available, depending on workloads and available projects.
Interns share park housing with seasonal employees and other volunteers, and must participate in housecleaning assignments. Interns can expect to have their own rooms. Park housing include kitchen and laundry facilities. A stipend providing meals and mileage reimbursement is offered to residential interns.
If you are looking to apply for seasonal employment, the check online at USAJobs to see which parks are hiring.
Interpretation and Education Internships
The Spring Interpretation Internship at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in historical interpretation and public history. Park staff will work with interns to create a part-time schedule that works for students around other coursework, with a target of completing at least 120 hours of work between January and May. This internship may be completed for course credit.
Description: Interns will be stationed in front line positions under the guidance of park staff and will provide orientation and interpretation to the public at large. Interns should be comfortable having conversations with members of the public about topics such as the Lost Cause and slavery. Interns will work at visitor centers and will be expected to practice skills associated with developing and presenting interpretive programs. Park staff will provide training and collaborate with the intern to lay out specific goals for their internship experience. Interns will also be responsible for completing other interpretive projects as assigned by park staff.
Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP)
We are not currently accepting applications for the TTAP program.
