The Magic “I” Word: Internships

  • According to employers, one of the most valuable types of experiences you can have.
  • Organizations hire many full-time employees from summer or academic year interns.
  • Kansas Micro-internship Program

The National Association of Colleges and Employers defines an internship this way:

An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.   

To ensure that an experience—whether it is a traditional internship or one conducted remotely or virtually—is educational, and thus eligible to be considered a legitimate internship by the NACE definition, all the following criteria must be met: 

  • The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or be the work that a regular employee would routinely perform.
  • The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
  • The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
  • There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework. 
  • There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
  • There is routine feedback by the experienced supervisor.  
  • There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals. 
If these criteria are followed, it is the opinion of NACE that the experience can be considered a legitimate internship

Benefits/Advantages of Internships

While many students wait until their junior or senior year to complete an internship, completing an internship while you are still undecided allows you to explore career paths before you commit to a major. Juniors and seniors can use an internship to experience the variety of specialties within their chosen field and determine the best fit for individual skills, abilities, and interests.
Employers frequently cite the work experience gained by internships as important in their hiring decisions for college graduates. An internship is a great way to gain experience in your career field and can help to put you ahead of other candidates in the job search.
The process for finding an internship is, in many cases, identical to finding full-time employment. Finding job openings, contacting employers, developing your resume and cover letter, interviewing, and evaluating offers are all skills that you will practice during your internship search.
An internship will put you in contact with professionals in your field of interest - a perfect networking opportunity.
Employers frequently mention new graduates’ lack of “professionalism” in the workplace. The best way to learn how to fit into the professional workplace is through practice. An internship is your orientation to the world of work!
Employers like to hire interns into full-time positions after graduation. During an internship, employers are able to observe your daily behavior, work ethic, and ability to fit in with their organization. Think of an internship as an extended interview.

Types of Internships

Internships can be either paid or unpaid depending on the career field and employer resources.  Internships in business fields (accounting, marketing, finance) are more likely to be paid than those in social science careers (social work, education, history).  Consider whether or not your personal financial situation will allow you to accept an unpaid internship. An unpaid position can be a great experience and has the same networking opportunities and professional benefits of a paid internship. When considering an unpaid position, it is important to weigh the long-term benefit of your experience against the short-term financial gain.
If you will receive college credit for your internship you need to contact your academic department to arrange this.  Internships that are for college credit will require you to enroll in an internship course and have a faculty advisor. Each department handles internship credit differently so be sure to check with your advisor before accepting or beginning an internship.  Internships for which you do not receive college credit are still valuable experiences.
The length of internships varies; however, students commonly complete internships over the summer or during a semester while taking classes. Summer internships are more frequently full-time, while internships completed during the semester tend to be fewer hours per week to allow students to continue to take classes. In the early stages of your internship search, consider which option fits into your schedule. Location of an internship also is a factor; summer internships can be found nationwide, or even internationally, while semester internships may have to be local.
During your internship search you may run across the term co-op. A co-op, or cooperative education, experience is typically a semester of full-time employment. Students in a traditional co-op setting do not take college courses during the co-op. Employers may use the term internship and co-op interchangeably, so be sure to ask about the employment time frame and expectations.
Micro-Internships are short-term, paid, professional assignments that are similar to those given to new hires or interns. These projects enable Career Launchers to demonstrate skills, explore career paths, and build their networks as they seek the right full-time role. Through Micro-Internships, students can demonstrate their skills, explore career paths, and develop their professional networks. These paid opportunities typically range from 5 to 40 hours of work, and students can be selected for multiple Micro-Internships.

For more information, and to get started looking at available opportunities, visit the Parker Dewey micro internships for Washburn website.

Each employer has unique internship parameters, so be sure to ask lots of questions during the selection process to ensure that the experience is what you are seeking. Your accomplishments and tasks completed during your internship are more important than simply having the word “Intern” on your resume.

At the start of your internship, meet with your supervisor to discuss your interest areas and internship goals. While you may not be able to tailor your entire experience, showing initiative and ownership of your experience will demonstrate professionalism and dedication to the position.  Make your specific areas of interest and experience known to your internship supervisor.

Treat your internship as a job interview. Since many employers hire full-time employees from recent interns, your performance during the internship can determine whether or not you are offered a position.  During your internship, act as you would if you were a full-time employee.  Following the dress code, arriving on time, staying on task, and completing work within deadlines will impress your supervisor.  Even if your company does not have a position open, a positive reference from your internship will be very helpful during your job search.

 

Available internships from Handshake

This list is updated directly from the Handshake website. View all openings (handshake website)
Link: Web Design Intern at Advisors Excel
Date: Mon, 9 Mar 2026 9:43 AM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 04/09/2026 Position: Web Design InternDepartment: Creative ServicesReporting to: Web Design Art DirectorTime: Part Time, 15-25 hours/weekOverview:Are you looking for a fast-paced role with an incredible team to develop your web design skills? This internship will assist the web team with maintaining client websites, processing request tickets, and using problem-solving skills in ongoing web projects. If you’re passionate about web design and development, this might be the role for you! This is an ongoing internship opportunity (not summer-only) and is an on-site position in our Topeka, KS office. What you’ll do: Update and maintain live client websitesMake revisions on new client websites that are in productionUpdate and edit corporate email designs to prepare for sending.Collect statistics regarding website success and performanceResolving client requests through ticketing dashboardContribute creatively in meetings, to develop new concepts and approachesOther duties and responsibilities as assigned by managementExperience you’ll bring:Strong eye for designAbility to use Photoshop and other Adobe Creative productsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsStrong knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OutlookInterest in web design and developmentDetail oriented approach when completing website revisions and requestsStrong organizational, time management and problem solving skills and the ability to work accurately and meet deadlines with frequent interruptionsDemonstrated ability to work effectively as a part of a teamAbility to coordinate project activities with diverse groups and individualsBonus Points:Experience with HTML and CSSExperience with WordPressDesign portfolioWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café and gymContinuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee sponsored events…and more!Who We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Link: Copy Editor Intern at Advisors Excel
Date: Thu, 5 Mar 2026 8:53 AM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 04/05/2026 Position: Copy Editor InternDepartment: Creative ServicesReporting to: Senior Strategic Communications Team Member  Location: Topeka, KS (on-site position)Overview: We are looking for a talented and motivated Copy Editor Intern to join our Strategic Communications team. You’ll proof and edit content for our corporate and consumer-facing marketing initiatives for independent financial advisors and their clients. If you have a sharp eye for detail, enjoy the art of great grammar and are interested in financial services, we’d love to work with you.What you’ll do: Proof and edit communication and marketing materials before distribution to ensure accuracy and that all materials are free of any typos and/or grammatical errorsHelp with final reviews on e-blasts before distribution to ensure they are error-freeLeverage AI copyediting and proofreading tools to identify errors, ensure style consistency and support quality control across all assetsContinuously refine prompts and AI outputs. Apply editorial judgment to fact-check, maintain brand voice and ensure compliance across all contentOccasionally assist in generating copy for corporate and/or client marketing projectsWork with in-house and third-party compliance personnel to revise copy as needed to update sources and maintain compliant content at all timesWork with other copywriter(s), editors and the Strategic Communications director to brainstorm, edit and organize libraries of relevant content for use by advisors with clients and prospectsHelp organize archives and coordinate thank-you gifts for AE’s quarterly magazine, as well as other recordkeeping to keep the team running smoothlyOther duties as assignedExperience you’ll bring: College-level coursework in advertising, mass communications/journalism, marketing or EnglishStrong written and verbal communication skills and attention to detailExperience with or willingness to learn about AI writing and editing tools, showing an ability to embrace new technology in the editing processFamiliarity with AP styleAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyWork well independently and as part of a teamBonus Points: Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.)Experience with project management software (we use Workfront)What you’ll get: Flexibility around class schedules and finalsAccess to an on-site café and gymContinuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee-sponsored events … and much more!Who We Are: Advisors Excel is a fast-paced, innovative company that serves independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions, to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here — as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Link: Digital Marketing Intern at Advisors Excel
Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:08 AM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 04/18/2026 Position: Digital Marketing InternDepartment: Media Solutions Reporting to: Director of Digital Marketing  Location: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Our Digital Marketing team is looking for a Digital Marketing Intern to join the team! This position will assist the AE Digital team with digital marketing campaigns and projects for Advisors Excel and its clients. This individual will be actively helping with the required day-to-day requirements of paid digital marketing management, as well as performing various duties associated with ongoing digital projects and programs. If you have an eye for advertising and design and a passion for marketing, this could be the internship for you!This internship is ongoing, not a seasonal or summer internship. It is on-site in our Topeka, KS office and not open to remote work.What you’ll do:Assist in answering advisor’s digital marketing questionsHelp build out digital marketing campaigns and campaign assetsImplement measurement and tracking tools on various web platformsPull performance metrics and leads to upload them to various databasesAssist in digital marketing program advisor qualification processParticipate in program onboarding, helping to create initial ad designsCall advisor offices to collect event attendance and appointment informationUpload assets to compliance and ensure they are completedUpdate and maintain live client websites and landing pagesContribute creatively to meetings to develop new concepts and approachesResearch and stay current with market trends in digital marketingPropose new ideas to promote the company and its clients through web and digital mediaOther duties and responsibilities as assigned by managementExperience you’ll bring:High School DiplomaAbility to use Photoshop and other Adobe Creative productsStrong organizational, time management and problem-solving skills and the ability to work accurately and meet deadlines with frequent interruptionsAbility to coordinate project activities with diverse groups and individualsDemonstrated ability to work effectively as a part of a teamBonus Points:Interest in digital marketing and measurementPortfolio of design workWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café and gymContinuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee sponsored events…and more!Who We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Link: Solar Outreach Intern at Ambia Solar
Date: Tue, 24 Feb 2026 7:21 PM
Employer: Ambia Solar Expires: 04/20/2026 Solar Outreach Internship – Summer 2026 | Ambia Energy Seeking a structured summer role where you can gain professional experience, strengthen communication skills, and earn performance-based income? Ambia Energy is hiring Solar Outreach Interns to support homeowner education efforts and coordinate complimentary in-home solar consultations. This is a field-based position with paid training, daily mentorship, and clearly defined performance goals. Position overviewAs a Solar Outreach Intern, you will represent Ambia in local neighborhoods, speak with homeowners about the advantages of residential solar, and schedule appointments for consultations with our solar specialists.Primary responsibilitiesConduct in-person outreach with homeowners in assigned areasShare accurate, easy-to-understand information about solar energy benefitsSchedule appointments for free in-home consultationsMaintain a professional, respectful presence in the communityProfessional developmentThis internship is designed to provide practical, transferable experience, including:Confident, professional communication in face-to-face settingsHandling questions and objections with composureUnderstanding performance metrics and goal trackingFoundational knowledge of the residential solar industryCompensation and supportPerformance-based earnings with bonus opportunitiesHigh performers may earn up to $100,000 over the summerFlexible scheduling optionsPaid training and consistent field coachingDocumented performance metrics suitable for resumes and future interviewsIdeal candidate profileYou may be a good fit if you:Are reliable, coachable, and comfortable speaking with new peopleValue measurable performance and personal growthWant a role where effort and consistency directly impact resultsRequirements18 years of age or olderReliable transportationWillingness to work outdoors in a field settingStart your summer with Ambia Energy and gain practical experience, professional skills, and meaningful earning potential while contributing to clean energy awareness.
Link: Solar Sales Sunpower Internship at Ambia Solar
Date: Mon, 2 Feb 2026 3:09 PM
Employer: Ambia Solar Expires: 05/04/2026 Ready to make a real impact — and earn BIG this semester?Ambia Energy Solutions is one of the fastest-growing solar energy companies, helping homeowners cut electric bills and take control of their power with renewable, money-saving solar systems.We’re looking for motivated and ambitious college students to join our team as Solar Sales Interns (Field Service Coordinators) — the first step in helping families switch to clean energy.Ambia operates in 45 states nationwide. Our Philadelphia market is our primary focus this season, and housing is provided for reps working there. If relocation isn’t a fit, we can often accommodate local or nearby markets as well.What You’ll DoEngage with homeowners in your local area through direct outreachEducate them on how solar can reduce utility costs and increase home valueSet appointments for free in-home consultations with our solar expertsRepresent Ambia professionally and deliver an excellent customer experienceWhy This Internship Rocks💰 Earn up to $25,000 over the semester⏰ Flexible hours that fit around your class schedule🧠 Hands-on training in communication, solar knowledge, and leadership🚀 Boost your résumé with real-world experience in one of the fastest-growing industries🔥 Fun, high-energy culture and a team that wins togetherWhy Solar — Why NowThe solar industry is booming. Homeowners everywhere are switching to solar to save money and gain independence from rising electric rates.With Ambia’s proven systems and industry-leading training, you’ll gain skills and experience that pay off for life — both financially and professionally.What We’re Looking ForOutgoing, self-driven students who enjoy talking to peopleInterest in renewable energy, sustainability, or technologyStrong communication skills and a positive, coachable attitudeA desire to learn, grow, and challenge yourself Apply today and start your Solar Sales Internship with Ambia Energy Solutions.Learn, earn, and make an impact this semester. 
Link: Business Development Intern - Sunpower at Ambia Solar
Date: Mon, 9 Mar 2026 10:45 PM
Employer: Ambia Solar Expires: 04/09/2026 We are looking for a motivated intern to support our residential solar sales through customer outreach and lead generation for homeowners interested in clean energy. Gain hands-on experience in sales, communication, and business development while working with seasoned solar experts. Ideal for students or recent graduates seeking real-world skills in sales, marketing, and renewables, with competitive pay.ResponsibilitiesPerform door-to-door outreach to introduce solar solutions to homeownersQualify leads and book appointments for senior consultantsEducate on energy costs and solar incentivesTrack leads and activities accuratelyRepresent the company professionally in neighborhoodsWork with sales leaders to refine strategiesParticipate in team trainingsRequired Skills and QualificationsExcellent verbal and interpersonal skillsConfidence in face-to-face homeowner interactionsSelf-motivated with strong work ethicResilience to handle rejection positivelyOpen to coaching and feedbackReliable transportationFull-time summer availabilityPreferred QualificationsExperience in sales, customer service, or outreachInterest in renewable energy or businessGoal-oriented background (e.g., sports, leadership)What You'll GainPractical sales and development experienceMentorship from solar prosResume-boosting roleStrong earning potentialPotential for full-time post-graduationThis field-based internship teaches real business skills like communication, persistence, and execution—perfect for future sales, entrepreneurship, or leadership careers. Top performers excel!
Link: Solar Sales Field Outreach Intern at Ambia Solar
Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2026 4:39 PM
Employer: Ambia Solar Expires: 05/01/2026 Solar Sales Intern – Summer 2026 (Ambia Energy Solutions) Ready to make real money this summer while building legit sales + communication skills? Ambia Energy is one of the nation's fastest-growing solar companies helping homeowners lower electric bills and gain control over their energy. We’re hiring Solar Sales Interns (Field Service Coordinators) to generate interest and set appointments for free in-home solar consultations. What you’ll do   •    Talk with homeowners in nearby neighborhoods through in-person outreach   •    Explain how solar can help reduce utility costs and increase home value   •    Set appointments for a free consultation with one of our solar specialists   •    Represent Ambia professionally and create a great first impression What you’ll learn (skills that transfer everywhere)   •    Real-world communication and confidence   •    How to handle objections and stay calm under pressure   •    Professional sales fundamentals, leadership habits, and goal-setting   •    Energy/solar basics you can actually explain clearly Pay + perks   •    Performance-based pay with bonuses (earnings vary by hours and performance)   •    Top performers can earn up to $100,000 over the summer   •    Flexible schedule around classes    •    Paid training + coaching + daily support in the field   •    Resume builder: measurable outcomes (appointments set, conversations, conversion rates) You’re a fit if you…   •    Like talking to people and want to improve fast   •    Are competitive, coachable, and don’t fold after a “no”   •    Want a role where effort directly impacts earnings   •    Can be consistent each week (this is how people win) Good to know   •    This is an in-person field role    •    No experience required, we train you from day 1   •    Must be 18+ and have reliable transportation  Apply today to join Ambia this summer. Learn real skills, earn real money, and make an impact.
Link: Solar Outreach Intern at Ambia Solar
Date: Sun, 22 Mar 2026 11:23 PM
Employer: Ambia Solar Expires: 04/22/2026 Solar Outreach Internship – Summer 2026 | Ambia Energy Seeking a structured summer role where you can gain professional experience, strengthen communication skills, and earn performance-based income? Ambia Energy is hiring Solar Outreach Interns to support homeowner education efforts and coordinate complimentary in-home solar consultations. This is a field-based position with paid training, daily mentorship, and clearly defined performance goals. Position overviewAs a Solar Outreach Intern, you will represent Ambia in local neighborhoods, speak with homeowners about the advantages of residential solar, and schedule appointments for consultations with our solar specialists.Primary responsibilitiesConduct in-person outreach with homeowners in assigned areasShare accurate, easy-to-understand information about solar energy benefitsSchedule appointments for free in-home consultationsMaintain a professional, respectful presence in the communityProfessional developmentThis internship is designed to provide practical, transferable experience, including:Confident, professional communication in face-to-face settingsHandling questions and objections with composureUnderstanding performance metrics and goal trackingFoundational knowledge of the residential solar industryCompensation and supportPerformance-based earnings with bonus opportunitiesAverage sales rep earned $25,000 over the summerTop reps, and high performers can earn up to $75,000 over the summerFlexible scheduling optionsDaily training and consistent field coachingDocumented performance metrics suitable for resumes and future interviewsIdeal candidate profileYou may be a good fit if you:Are reliable, coachable, and comfortable speaking with new peopleValue measurable performance and personal growthWant a role where effort and consistency directly impact resultsRequirements18 years of age or olderReliable transportationWillingness to work outdoors in a field settingStart your summer with Ambia Energy and gain practical experience, professional skills, and meaningful earning potential while contributing to clean energy awareness. 
Link: Plastics Manufacturing Process Intern at Amcor
Date: Fri, 6 Mar 2026 3:56 PM
Employer: Amcor - Amcor Rigid Packaging Expires: 04/06/2026 About the RoleAs an intern at Amcor, you'll meet and learn from leaders across the organization, work on meaningful projects, and build the skills, knowledge and network that will propel your career forward. Amcor's Summer Internship Program is designed to encourage practical application of classroom concepts in an advanced industrial manufacturing environment. Amcor's interns are dependable, curious, and not afraid to fail forward. They embrace the grind, take initiative, and proactively manage their resources amongst assigned projects, daily responsibilities, and impromptu tasks, ensuring their work meets expectations for safety, quality, and timeliness. The Plastics Manufacturing Process Intern is a hands-on, apprentice-style position providing basic technical support to the 1st shift Thermoform Process Team. The Intern will be paired with a certified trainer for the duration of the 10-week program, learning to oversee the operations of an assigned Thermoform production line with a strong focus on personal safety, product quality, and process efficiency. The ideal candidate for this role is a reliable, organized, and hardworking critical thinker with career aspirations in the field(s) of industrial automation, maintenance technology, process or manufacturing engineering, materials science, or electromechanical systems. ResponsibilitiesDemonstrate reliability, punctuality, initiative, and follow-through from Day 1.Observe and ask questions of the trainer(s), check in regularly with the Supervisor, and proactively report on progress and challenges, collaborating with team members to creatively resolve problems.Perform responsibilities safely and ensure cleanliness of assigned work area, following all applicable policies, procedures and good manufacturing practices (GMPs).Optimize production and maximize run times by diagnosing and addressing core process issues, managing identified symptoms, performing minor repairs, and troubleshooting basic mechanical failures.Ensure the line, extruder, former, and trim press are running efficiently and producing quality parts by frequently checking finished product for defects and making corrections accordingly.Embrace a team player mentality by approaching all assigned responsibilities with an open mind and enthusiasm, regardless of scope.Communicate with colleagues in person, via email, and using Microsoft Teams, immediately notifying the Supervisor/nearest leader of any safety concerns, observed Code of Conduct violations, or other emergencies.Participate in required internship programming, attending optional activities when possible, prioritizing the production schedule and assigned job duties. QualificationsCurrently enrolled college student pursuing a degree in Industrial Manufacturing, Automation, Materials Science, Process Engineering, or related field (Plastics Engineering Technology majors strongly preferred)Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneouslyConfident identifying and comfortable using basic hand tools (hammer, pliers, wrench, various screwdrivers) and measurement instruments (ruler, tape measure, caliper, various gauges)Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) with previous exposure to reading electrical/wiring schematics, blueprints, or technical instruction manualsAbility to work independently under minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a teamAbility to remain calm and logical in high pressure, potentially stressful situationsWilling to receive constructive feedback and coaching, with the ability to quickly adjust actions and behaviorsAptitude for and interest in mechanics, industrial machinery, automation, advanced manufacturing, and other technically challenging workBilingual candidates (English + Spanish, Swahili, Ukrainian, Arabic, Vietnamese, Italian, French, or another language) strongly preferred Physical requirements:Able to stand, walk, bend, or stoop for the majority of an 8-hour shiftAble to lift 35 pounds without assistance20/20 vision (with correction) and the ability to distinguish colorsAble to safely climb stairs and ladders without assistanceGood manual dexterityAble to work around grease, oils, solvents, and in dusty environments without adverse reactionAble to respond to visual and audible alarms and verbally communicate in a manufacturing environment Additional InformationApplications submitted without a resume will not be considered.Compensation: $21 hourlyAnticipated Start/End: Tuesday, May 26 – Friday, August 7, 2026Work Schedule: Full-time, 1st shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM), 5 consecutive days, 1 weekend day required (i.e., Tuesday – Sunday or Sunday – Thursday)Work Type: 90% production floor (hands-on/technical) | 10% office (administrative)Remote Eligible: No. This position is located onsite in Lawrence, KSRelocation Assistance: Available – ask your recruiter for more details
Link: Interpretation and Digital Outreach Member - Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park at American Conservation Experience
Date: Tue, 10 Mar 2026 1:01 PM
Employer: American Conservation Experience Expires: 04/10/2026 Interpretation and Digital Outreach Member - Brown v. Board of Education National Historical ParkSummaryAmerican Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Corps, in partnership with National Park Service (NPS), is seeking THREE Members  to contribute to interpretation and digital outreach alongside NPS Staff.For more information about ACE, please visit our website.Start Date: June 2026Estimated End Date: September/October 2026*a 17-week minimum commitment is required*Location Details/Description: Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park (BRVB; Topeka, KS)The position is located in Topeka, Kansas, the vibrant capital of Kansas about 30 minutes west of Lawrence and sixty miles west of Kansas City. Topeka is a medium-sized city, home to Washburn University, with ample, affordable housing. The Kansas City metro area is a World Cup soccer site in June-July 2026. While there are some public transportation options and walkability, having a personal vehicle is highly recommended for commuting as well as to access groceries and other amenities on days off. Amtrak serves Topeka on a limited basis, too, and the nearest commercial airport is Kansas City, MO (MCI).Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park (BRVB) is the only national park unit devoted specifically to a US Supreme Court decision. In 1954 the court decided five cases from South Carolina, Kansas, Virginia, Delaware, and the District of Columbia together, declaring that “segregation is inherently unequal” and that segregation by race in public schools is therefore unconstitutional. The park interprets the history and events leading up to the decision and the legacies of the decision since 1954. Also, Congress expanded the park in 2022 to include a new unit in Summerton, SC (under development) and five affiliated areas in Virginia, Delaware, and Washington, DC. For more information about the BRVB subpage on the NPS website.Position Overview:  In addition to adding a new unit and renaming the park, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park Expansion and Redesignation Act of 2022 added to the mission of the park to “honor the civil rights stories of struggle, perseverance, and activism in the pursuit of education equity.” In our efforts to fulfill that charge, the park has been digitizing audio and video recordings—mostly oral history interviews—and editing transcripts so that we can make them available on the park web page. We are also preparing a large collection of photographs for posting on our web page, going back to the early history of the park in 1992 and progressing up to recent events. The park also has an ongoing records management project to organize and digitize the park’s administrative records.In order to contribute to interpretation and digital outreach efforts, the Member can expect the following duties:Under the supervision of the visual information specialist, adding metadata to born-digital photographs and uploading them to NPGallery, the National Park Service content management system.Reviewing transcripts received from contractors for accuracy.Assisting the park’s interpretation, education, and visitor services staff with special events at the park and in the community (such as Juneteenth).Scanning paper documents and photographic prints for inclusion in the park’s digital archive.Researching and writing articles on topics of interest to the Member and the park for the NPS web site.The position is intended to be an introduction to National Park Service interpretation programs, park operations, and archival collection preservation and management at a small but growing historical park. The Member will also have opportunities to engage the park superintendent (a historian with museum management experience) and with other NPS parks and offices, such as the Midwest Archeological Center and the multi-park museum collection facility in Independence, MO.This individual placement is meant to facilitate professional development and promotes exposure to land management agencies and networking with professionals. This could include gaining experience in different conservation fields and shadowing different work groups.Schedule: Position BenefitsLiving Allowance: The ACE Member is expected to contribute ~40 hours/week and will receive a living allowance of $600/week to offset the costs of food and incidental expenses, dispersed bi-weekly.Public Land Corps Hiring Authority: Members serving under this agreement may be eligible for a federal hiring authority upon completion of their term of service and 640 hours of service. If the duration of a PLC-eligible term is not long enough for Members to accrue 640 hours of service (~16 weeks), the total hours served at the completion of the term may be eligible to be combined with hours accrued from another PLC-eligible term to meet the 640 hours requirement. PLC projects also include specific eligibility requirements such as age and citizenship. Please contact ACE staff with questions about eligibility, or view general eligibility information on our website.Housing: Housing is the responsibility of the member and not provided by ACE or the NPS. A $500/month housing reimbursement is available upon approval (4 months total).  Provided Training/Orientation: ACE members will receive position specific training and an orientation outlining ACE policies and procedures, clear guidance on prohibited activities, and networks for support. Qualifications Required:Members must be authorized to work in the United States. ACE does not provide sponsorship for employment visas. Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner. Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group.A current and valid form of ID (will be required to provide copies of ID’s upon hiring)Willing to undergo and must pass the required criminal history checks Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation. Members may not participate in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.To learn more about eligibility requirements, please visit our website.Preferred:Competitive applicants for this position can hold or be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in museum studies, history, or digital editing and writing.Knowledge of modern American history, African American studies, writing and editing.Ability and willingness to complete tasks that require precision and accuracy.Deep interest in the Civil Rights Movement in American history.Physical Demands, Work Environment and Working Conditions: Physical Demands: Requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, hiking, carrying, using hands to handle or feel, reaching with hands and arms, talking and hearing. Manual dexterity required for use of various tools, computer keyboard/mouse and other office equipment. Required to stoop, kneel, climb stairs, and/or crouch. Vision Requirements: Requires close, distance, peripheral and depth perception vision as well as the ability to focus. Weight Lifted or Force Exerted: Ability to move up to 15 pounds.Environmental: Outdoor and indoor conditions. Work environment conditions can change frequently; working under adverse weather conditions and in various climates. Mainly indoor, office environment conditions; indoor air quality is good and temperature is controlled. Noise Environment: [Moderate noise such as in a business office with equipment and light traffic. Travel: This position does not require unique travel.Environmental Conditions/Hazards:  The ACE member(s) may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The member is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow staff/members or resources. [Hazard specifics should be provided on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the Partner site.To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references to ACE’s online application page for this position on our website.Early consideration will be given as applications are received. This position may close at any time. If you have any questions regarding this position please feel free to contact ACE EPIC NPS Program Manager, Andrew Garcia. If you meet at least 70 percent of the qualifications, we want to hear from you!ACE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information when you are enrolled in a program to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.EEO:  Employment or Service with ACE is based upon ability, qualifications, attitude, and job-related factors. Every qualified employee, member, or applicant has the same opportunity for recruitment, hire, training, transfer, promotion, compensation, demotion, termination, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, pregnancy, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital or parental status, political affiliation, ethnicity, hair texture or style, arrest record, caste, hereditary status, endogamy, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. 
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