The Battle of Lake Erie Interpretation Intern will gain experience in both office and field settings while working closely with park staff to develop educational programming and support daily park operations. Office work will take place at the Ranger Operations Center (ROC), located less than one mile from park housing, where the intern will collaborate with park staff on research, project planning, and program development.
Fieldwork includes assisting with visitor services, presenting interpretive programs, participating in historic weapons demonstrations, and supporting public events throughout the park. The position requires standing for extended periods, walking on paved and uneven surfaces, moving light equipment, and working outdoors in changing weather conditions. Throughout the summer, the intern will work alongside park staff and other interns in a collaborative learning environment.
The Battle of Lake Erie Interpretation Intern will research, develop, and present educational programming that highlights African American participation during the Battle of Lake Erie and the War of 1812. Through historical research and interpretation, the intern will help expand visitor understanding of this important chapter in American history while creating educational resources that can be used by park staff long after the internship concludes.
Working closely with National Park Service historians and interpreters, the intern will research primary and secondary historical sources, develop interpretive materials, and create engaging public programs that connect visitors with the stories of African American military service during the War of 1812.
In addition to project work, the intern will gain hands-on experience in daily National Park Service operations by assisting with visitor services, interpretive programming, and historic weapons demonstrations at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.
Primary responsibilities include:
Based on the intern’s interests, additional opportunities may include museum collections work, digital media projects, social media content creation, and special event coordination.
The internship provides practical experience in historical research, interpretation, public speaking, educational programming, and visitor engagement. Throughout the summer, the intern will learn how research is transformed into meaningful interpretive experiences that help visitors better understand America’s history.
The intern will also gain firsthand experience with National Park Service operations by participating in daily ranger activities, interpretive programming, and historic weapons demonstrations. Additional opportunities may include exposure to museum collections management, digital communications, and special event planning.
By the conclusion of the internship, the intern will have developed skills in historical research, audience-centered interpretation, public communication, project planning, and collaborative teamwork while contributing a lasting educational resource to the park.
The Battle of Lake Erie Interpretation Intern will receive structured mentorship from experienced National Park Service staff throughout the internship.
The experience begins with an orientation introducing park operations, staff responsibilities, safety procedures, and the history and significance of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. Throughout the internship, supervisors will provide regular guidance, project oversight, and constructive feedback while helping the intern establish achievable goals and milestones.
Working alongside park rangers and interpreters, the intern will receive coaching in historical research, interpretive planning, visitor engagement, and public speaking. As confidence and experience grow, the intern will assume greater responsibility for program development and delivery while continuing to receive support from mentors across multiple park disciplines.
Preferred applicants should demonstrate:
Applicants should enjoy working with the public and be interested in sharing history through engaging educational experiences.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie, during the War of 1812, and to celebrate the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada and the U.S. The Memorial, a Doric column, rising 352 feet over Lake Erie is situated 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world.
Stipend: $17.20/Hour
Duration: 11 Weeks (Full-Time)
Location: 95 Delaware Avenue, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, within the Village of Put-in-Bay, Ohio. The park sits in a scenic island community known for its historical significance, outdoor recreation, and seasonal tourism. Park housing, offices, and the memorial are all within walking distance, creating a close-knit and immersive internship experience.
Interns will have convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, recreational facilities, and other essential services located throughout the village. Transportation to and from the mainland is available through seasonal ferry service and year-round regional air service, weather permitting. Summers are generally warm and humid, with lake breezes providing comfortable outdoor conditions, while the island’s unique setting offers opportunities to explore Lake Erie, nearby state parks, research facilities, and one of the National Park Service’s most recognizable memorials.
Yes, park housing is available.
A personal vehicle and valid driver’s license are required.
