The Historic Interpretation Outreach Intern will work in a combination of visitor services, office, historic site, community outreach, and public programming environments. The position is based in the Baltimore area and supports interpretation and engagement connected to the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
The intern may assist with visitor programs, guided tours, interpretive talks, outreach activities, special events, and the development of original educational content. Some work may take place outdoors at historic locations and during community programs, requiring the ability to stand, walk, interact with the public, and work in varying seasonal weather conditions.
Because the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail connects multiple historic places and communities throughout the Chesapeake region, the internship may also provide opportunities to engage with National Park Service staff, partner organizations, community groups, and visitors at locations associated with the trail’s history.
The Historic Interpretation Outreach Intern will work alongside National Park Service staff to help visitors and communities explore the people, places, and events connected to the War of 1812 and the history of the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
The trail connects historic sites throughout the Chesapeake region associated with the Chesapeake Campaign of the War of 1812, including the events that culminated in the defense of Baltimore and inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the United States national anthem. Through public interpretation, educational programming, and outreach, the intern will help make these nationally significant stories accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences.
The intern will gain hands-on experience in public history by assisting with tours, interpretive talks, visitor services, community programs, and original program development. Working with National Park Service interpretive staff and leadership, the intern will have opportunities to research historical topics and transform that information into meaningful experiences for visitors and community audiences.
Primary responsibilities may include:
Through these experiences, the intern will contribute to the National Park Service’s efforts to connect visitors with the people, places, and events that shaped this important chapter of American history.
Throughout the internship, the intern will develop practical skills in historical interpretation, public speaking, visitor engagement, community outreach, educational programming, and historical research.
By working directly with National Park Service staff and the public, the intern will learn how historical research is transformed into tours, interpretive talks, educational activities, and community programs. The intern will strengthen their ability to communicate complex historical information clearly and effectively to audiences of different ages and backgrounds.
The internship will also provide experience in developing original interpretive programming, supporting public events, collaborating with community partners, and understanding the daily operations of a National Park Service program.
By the conclusion of the internship, the intern will have strengthened skills applicable to careers in public history, education, museums, historic preservation, communications, public service, law, cultural institutions, and the National Park Service.
The Historic Interpretation Outreach Intern will work directly with National Park Service interpretive staff and leadership throughout the internship. Staff will provide guidance in historical research, interpretive techniques, public speaking, visitor engagement, program development, and community outreach.
The intern will receive hands-on coaching while observing and participating in tours, visitor programs, outreach activities, and special events. As the intern gains knowledge and confidence, they may assume greater responsibility for developing and presenting original interpretive programming.
Mentorship may also include exposure to different areas of National Park Service operations and opportunities to interact with park professionals, historians, educators, preservation specialists, community partners, and others whose work supports historic sites and public programs throughout the region.
This combination of direct supervision, practical experience, and professional networking will help the intern develop confidence, strengthen professional skills, and explore potential career pathways in public history and public service.
Preferred applicants should demonstrate:
Preferred fields of study include History, African American History, Historic Preservation, Museum Studies, Education, Communications, Anthropology, Art History, or related disciplines.
Preference will be given to students and recent graduates currently residing in the Washington, D.C.–Maryland–Virginia region who are able to commute to Baltimore.
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is a collection of sites impacted by the War of 1812. These local, historic sites tell the story of the Chesapeake Campaign, culminating in the writing of our National Anthem. In addition to their historic significance, many of the sites along the trail are fantastic places to go for a walk, explore the outdoors, and access local waterways.
Stipend: $17.20/Hour + gas stipend
Duration: 11 Weeks (Full-Time)
Location: 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail connects historic places throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia associated with the Chesapeake Campaign of the War of 1812. The trail links battlefields, historic communities, waterways, museums, parks, and other locations that help tell the story of the events leading to the defense of Baltimore and the writing of what became the national anthem.
The internship is based in the Baltimore area, providing access to a major metropolitan region with extensive historical, cultural, educational, and recreational resources. Baltimore offers grocery stores, restaurants, healthcare facilities, museums, libraries, cultural institutions, and public transportation options throughout the region.
Because this position is intended primarily for local candidates who can commute to the internship location, preference is given to applicants currently living in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia region.
Park housing is not provided. Preference is given to students or recent graduates currently living in the Washington, D.C.–Maryland–Virginia region who can commute to the Baltimore area.
A personal vehicle and valid driver’s license are required.
