SkillBridge Visitor Services Intern

Main Goals for Position:

The DOD Skillbridge program allows Service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during their last 180 days of their service. For more information on the DOD Skillbridge program, visit DOD SkillBridge (osd.mil).

Description:

The SkillBridge intern will have a chance to learn and gain experience and knowledge, skills and abilities associated with working at a national park. Duties will include staffing the visitor center information desk, ensuring quality customer service, providing information to visitors, answering phone calls, operating a cash register, and assisting park rangers and staff during tours, programs and events. Additional duties may include supporting operations in either of the park’s two units at the Birthplace Visitor Center and the Knob Creek Visitor Center, which include museum and educational exhibits, theater and bookstore/souvenir shop.

Position Duties:

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park (ABLI) seeks a Skillbridge intern to work with the Visitor Services team. The SkillBridge intern will have a chance to learn and gain experience and knowledge, skills and abilities associated with working at a national park. Duties will include staffing the visitor center information desk, ensuring quality customer service, providing information to visitors, answering phone calls, operating a cash register, and assisting park rangers and staff during tours, programs and events. Additional duties may include supporting operations in either of the park’s two units at the Birthplace Visitor Center and the Knob Creek Visitor Center, which include museum and educational exhibits, theater and bookstore/souvenir shop. 

As a uniformed volunteer with the National Park Service, the volunteer serves as a front-line representative of the agency working at the park visitor center (either at the birthplace unit or Knob Creek unit) and the Memorial Building. The volunteer will greet park visitors, provide information about the park, orientation, directions, park programs, events, and activities to do. They will provide information about the visitor center and exhibit area and start the park film. Additionally, the volunteer will provide accurate information on the park history as well as the early years and life of Abraham Lincoln. Duties may also include stocking brochure displays, answering inquiries, operating office equipment, recording visitor statistics, opening/closing of building, and operating a cash register for the park store. 

Working Environment and Safety Considerations:

Working Environment: 

• Natural Settings: Volunteers have the opportunity to engage with diverse landscapes, including wooded areas, meadows, and historical sites.  
• Indoor and Outdoor Options: Depending on the volunteer's role, they may work in designated indoor spaces or outdoors, aligning with their interests and activities. 

Climate: 

• Seasonal Variations: The climate in Kentucky features four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow. 
• Rainfall: The region experiences moderate rainfall, particularly in spring and early summer, which may affect outdoor activities and planning. 
• Weather Preparedness: Volunteers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, with appropriate gear for both hot and cold weather. 

Physical Demands: 

• Mobility: Volunteers may need to walk or hike to different locations within the park, which can involve uneven terrain. 
• Manual Labor: Depending on their role, volunteers may encounter physical demands such as lifting materials, setting up materials, or carrying equipment. 
• Endurance: Working outdoors for extended periods can require stamina, especially during warmer months or while participating in community events. 
• Adaptability: Volunteers must be flexible in adapting to both environmental and community dynamics, responding to visitors and weather changes as they carry out their activities.