Alaska State Parks Volunteer Program and Volunteer Internship Positions
Natural History Interpreter
Note: Please be sure to check the general information page for instructions on how to apply! Click here to return to the list of position types.
NATURAL HISTORY INTERPRETER (1 position)
Park/Area: KETCHIKAN AREA STATE PARKS - TOTEM BIGHT SHP, SETTLERS COVE SRS, REFUGE COVE SRS.
Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest is a unique part of Alaska. A group of 10,000 islands in the Alexander Archipelago snuggle up to a narrow strip of mainland on the west side of the Coast Mountains, also known as the "Inside Passage." Ketchikan, an island community, has a population of 14,500. It is noted for its rich Alaska Native Culture and totem poles, extreme geography, diverse and lush vegetation, abundant land and marine wildlife, fishing, and of course lots of water! Other popular recreation activities include hiking, sea kayaking, sailing and scuba diving. The diversity of state parks in the Ketchikan area includes: a Native cultural/historic site, 2 recreation sites, and 2 remote marine parks, one with a public use cabin. The primary emphasis for the interpreter will be accomplished at Totem Bight State Historical Parks and Settlers Cove State Recreation Sites.
Main Tasks: Arrange and organize for speakers, or present interpretive programs highlighting the historic and natural resource values of the area parks. Coordinate the junior park ranger program for youth ages 8-12. Conduct weekly guided tours of the historic park for all age groups. Develop interpretive and informational displays for bulletin boards. May assist in the visitor information center.
Special Projects: Varied depending on skills and personal interests.
Required Skills: Field experience in natural history interpretation or outdoor education; enthusiasm for the outdoors, good communication and public speaking skills. Must work independently.
Desired Skills: Two years of undergraduate study in natural resources, environmental studies or interpretation. Computer skills beyond basic knowledge.
Internship:Will assist volunteer in internship requirements but preference given for field experience.
Allowance/Housing: Monthly food subsistence payment. Vehicle and housing needs are the responsibility of the volunteer.
Time Commitment: As long as desired between May 15 - September 15.
Send Application to: Ranger Aaron Ostby
Alaska State Parks - Southeast |
phone: (907) 247-8574 |
SUMMER RESIDENT VOLUNTEER (Up to 2 positions)
Park/Area: CHUGACH STATE PARK - EAGLE RIVER NATURE CENTER
The half million acres that make up Chugach State Park are filled with rugged mountains, ice caps, and sweeping glaciers. Wildlife abounds, including brown and black bears, Dall sheep, mountain goats, moose, wolves, bald and golden eagles, and all five species of salmon. The Nature Center is operated by a non-profit Friends group in cooperation with Chugach State Park. The purpose of the Nature Center is to provide a safe environment in which park visitors can receive timely and accurate information and learn about the natural environment. Our priorities are friendliness, safety, and quality.
Main Tasks: Live at the Eagle River Nature Center and perform daily maintenance of the facility and latrines in the area. Provide indoor information services (in person and over the phone, Wednesday-Sunday); operate cash register for snack/gift, and membership sales; lead short nature hikes for small groups. Light maintenance, including watering flowers, letter pickup, cleaning restrooms/latrines, emptying trash and vacuuming.
Special Projects: Varies with the individual but could include leading summer recreational or naturalist programs if interested.
Desired Skills: Good communication skills; interest in natural history interpretation; basic first aid skills; ability to work with people and share tight communal living spaces (kitchen, bathroom); general office skills (basic computer familiarity; operation of cash register); ability to work independently; initiative; and a good sense of humor.
Requirements: Must be available at least 3.5 days a week, days varying, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm to work inside the center.
Internship: Will assist volunteer in internship requirements and paperwork.
Allowance/Housing: Subsistence stipend available. Housing provided in a small cabin with gas heat (no electricity) approximately 1 minute walk from the Nature Center Maintenance Building; phone (and wifi), modern kitchen, bathroom located inside the Maintenance Building shared with other volunteers and staff; shared vehicle use for running errands to Eagle River only. Must be flexible and adaptable to living conditions because several other staff and local volunteers will be in and out of the building at various times of the day. Sorry, no pets allowed.
Time Commitment: May 1-Mid July or Mid July-September 30. Exceptions may be made for those wishing to stay May 1-September 30.
Note: Additional information about the Nature Center is located at www.ernc.org For specific questions contact Asta Spurgis, Director at info@ernc.org (please include "Volunteer Inquiry" in the subject). You may send applications up to one year in advance. We prefer to follow-up on preliminary applications by e-mail.
Application requirements: A completed Alaska State Parks application must be submitted (https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/vip/vipappcurrent.pdf). A short cover letter and resume limited to one page may also be mailed or emailed to Betsy Ward, Manager ERNC. Please do not send any additional information.
Send Application to: Betsy Ward, Manager
Eagle River Nature Center |
phone: (907) 694-2108 |
