https://www.nps.gov/bost/index.htm | Boston African American National Historic Site – https://www.nps.gov/boaf/index.htm/
The Visitor Engagement Intern will work in a combination of office, visitor services, and outdoor settings throughout Boston African American National Historic Site and the National Parks of Boston. Office work includes responding to visitor inquiries, coordinating programs, and supporting daily operations, while fieldwork involves welcoming visitors, leading interpretive activities, and assisting with programs along the Black Heritage Trail.
Summer programming takes place throughout the week during peak visitation. Most work occurs outdoors while interacting with visitors, walking between historic sites, and supporting partner-led activities. Staff monitor weather conditions closely, and outdoor programs are adjusted during unsafe conditions such as extreme heat, thunderstorms, or tropical storms. The position requires the ability to walk moderate distances and navigate historic urban landscapes.
The Visitor Engagement Intern will play an important role in strengthening visitor experiences at Boston African American National Historic Site while supporting the National Park Service’s partnership with the Museum of African American History. Because the National Park Service does not own all of the historic buildings associated with the site, visitor engagement plays an essential role in helping guests understand the significance of the Black Heritage Trail and the National Park Service’s stewardship of these nationally significant places.
Working alongside park staff and community partners, the intern will welcome visitors, provide orientation to the Black Heritage Trail, answer questions, and assist with interpretive programming that connects visitors with Boston’s rich history. As the internship progresses, the intern will gain experience leading interpretive talks, guided tours, and interactive educational activities while helping visitors connect historical stories to the places they explore.
The intern will also have opportunities to develop original visitor engagement activities, participate in living history programs, assist with special events, and collaborate with volunteers, youth teams, and partner organizations. Through these experiences, the intern will contribute directly to expanding public access and engagement while helping create a welcoming and informative experience for visitors from around the world.
During the internship, the intern will develop practical experience in interpretation, visitor engagement, and public history while working alongside National Park Service professionals and community partners. They will strengthen their public speaking, communication, and audience engagement skills through guided tours, educational programs, and daily visitor interactions.
The internship also provides experience working within collaborative partnerships by supporting programming with the Museum of African American History and other organizations. The intern will learn how multiple organizations work together to deliver high-quality visitor experiences while developing skills in project coordination, teamwork, and program planning.
Throughout the summer, the intern will build confidence managing responsibilities, balancing multiple assignments, and contributing ideas that enhance visitor experiences. By the conclusion of the internship, they will have gained valuable professional experience in interpretation, partnership collaboration, visitor services, and public engagement.
The Visitor Engagement Intern will receive structured mentorship from National Park Service staff throughout the internship. Beginning with a comprehensive orientation, the intern will become familiar with park operations, interpretive themes, visitor services, and the collaborative relationship between the National Park Service and the Museum of African American History.
Regular meetings with supervisors will provide guidance, project feedback, and opportunities for professional growth. As the intern gains experience, they will gradually assume greater responsibility in leading programs, coordinating activities, and supporting daily operations while continuing to receive coaching from experienced staff.
The intern will also have opportunities to shadow employees working in interpretation, visitor services, education, and partnership coordination. Participation in staff meetings, planning sessions, and community programs will provide insight into the many career paths available within the National Park Service and public history professions.
Preferred applicants should demonstrate an interest in one or more of the following areas:
Centered on the north slope of Beacon Hill, the African American community of 1800s Boston led the city and the nation in the fight against slavery and injustice. These remarkable men and women, together with their allies, were leaders in the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the early struggle for equal rights and education.
Stipend: $17.20/Hour
Duration: 11 Weeks (Full-Time)
Location: 21 Second Avenue, Charlestown, MA 02129
National Parks of Boston is located within the historic neighborhoods of Boston and Charlestown, providing interns with the opportunity to work in one of America’s most significant urban historical landscapes. Summer weather is typically warm and occasionally humid, with most travel between park locations accomplished by walking, public transportation, ferry, or park vehicles when appropriate.
The surrounding area offers convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, museums, and cultural attractions. Nearby neighborhoods—including Charlestown, Downtown Boston, Roxbury, Dorchester, Hyde Park, and East Boston—reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and provide opportunities to engage with vibrant local communities. Interns may also have opportunities to visit Boston Harbor Islands and other National Park Service sites throughout the Greater Boston area as part of their professional development.
No, park housing is not available.
A personal vehicle is not required. Public transportation, walking, and ferry service provide convenient access between park locations.
