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Proposed Internship Projects, Resource Management Division

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Title: Museum Aide - Colvin Run Mill
Description: Intern to assist in public programming, history camps and giving public tours. Also learn behind the scenes museum operations such as collections care, museum administration/ filing in a unique historic site environment.
Tasks include: opening and closing buildings, caring for collections items, giving tours, working with school age children for history camp, doing office administrative duties.
Requirements: History, Museum Studies, Parks and Recreation, ability to communicate effectively, research skills
Contact: Colvin Run Mill Historian

Title: Marketing Intern - Frying Pan Farm Park
Description: the Frying Pan Farm Park Marketing Intern would develop a marketing plan for the site's equestrian program.  They would then develop contacts with the appropriate market to promote the program and attract new visitors to the park.
Requirements: Hold a junior or senior standing in four-year degree program majoring in marketing, communications, business administration or a related field.
Contact: Frying Pan Farm Park – Park Manager

Title: Children's Education Intern - Green Spring Gardens
Description: Green Spring Gardens offers a range of education programs for children and families. The intern will assist with planning and conducting plant-based nature programs for children and families; gardening and other light physical work; developing programs, lesson plans, and teaching aids; creating and maintaining interpretive exhibits; and administrative duties and special projects as assigned. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, garden maintenance, and presenting a written and oral project report.
Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year environmental education, horticulture, botany, or similar degree program.
Contact: Green Spring Gardens Senior Interpreter

Title: Historic Resources Intern - Green Spring Gardens
Description: The intern will assist in all operations of the Historic House (ca 1784), including interpretation of the house and its historic landscape for daily visitors. The internship will involve researching and documenting various aspects of the site's history and local history as it relates to Historic Green Spring. The intern will also assist in researching for and developing historical interpretive programs for the public, cataloging archival documents, and developing exhibits. Visits to other FCPA historic sites and meetings with collections management staff will enhance the experience. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, garden maintenance, and presenting a written and oral project report.
Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year history, museum studies or similar degree program.
Contact: Green Spring Gardens Historian

Title: Horticultural Intern Native Plant Garden - Green Spring Gardens
Description: The internship will focus on the Virginia Native Plant Garden and the adjacent riparian woodland. This garden has over 500 taxa and features areas with naturalistic design, as well as mixed borders in sun and shade. Potential projects include documenting the restoration strategy for a rare magnolia bog and developing interpretive signage for the natural areas. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, garden maintenance, and presenting a written and oral project report.
Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year horticulture, botany, environmental education or similar degree program.

Title: Horticultural Intern - Green Spring Gardens
Description: Green Spring Gardens is a 31-acre public garden with 1784 Historic House that offers 22 themed gardens for enjoyment, education and inspiration. The intern may be offered a project involving horticulture, curation, propagation, community horticulture or education that suits the mission and activities at Green Spring Gardens. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities, garden maintenance, and presenting a written project report.
Requirements:Applicants must be enrolled in a two or four year horticulture, botany, environmental education or similar degree program.

Title: Horticultural Intern – Rock Garden
Description:  The intern will assist with the maintenance and management and of the Rock Garden. The intern will develop his or her knowledge of rock garden plants, and will work with staff to identify a project to advance the species diversity in the Rock Garden. Internship responsibilities include developing a project proposal, conducting project activities including propagation, rock garden and other garden maintenance, and presenting a written report.
Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in a two- or four-year horticulture, botany, environmental education or similar degree program.
Contact: Green Springs Garden Park Manager

Title: Hidden Pond Programming Intern - Hidden Pond Nature Center
Description: The intern will serve as a natural resources programmer at Hidden Pond Nature Center. This busy nature center has indoor exhibits, a nature trail, a pond, and abundant wildlife, and extensive woodlands along the Pohick Creek. The intern will be working with nature camp kids demonstrating animal care, walking through streams doing pond studies, and other aspects of natural science.
Requirement: College student or graduate preferable with a major in wildlife, biology, environmental science or Parks & Recreation; ability to communicate effectively and possesses research skills.  You must be able to work with children.

Title: Hidden Pond Animal Caretaker
Description: The intern would work with the center's fulltime animal care supervisor, and youth volunteers to help maintain live exhibits in a clean and presentable manner. Interaction with visitors will occur, so applicant must be able to converse with public at times. As part of this internship, site will welcome recommendations and suggestions from intern as part of their evaluation of the summer experience.
Requirement: College student or graduate, with an interest in wildlife, biology and or veterinary science.

Title: Hidden Pond Habitat Impact Survey Intern
Description: The intern would be assigned task of evaluating areas used by program staff for interpretive programs to help to determine ways to lessen impact on these areas. Working with park manager, and program manager, this person would aid in helping find the needed solutions to help better protect educational natural areas.
Requirement: College student or graduate in the study areas of wildlife, biology, freshwater ecosystems, and environmental science.

Title: Hidden Pond Naturalist Intern
Description: This intern would work in a variety of areas of site operations, from center office duty, wildlife surveys, program assistance, trail monitoring and wherever else they could be of help.
Requirement: College student or graduate with a major in wildlife, biology, environmental science or Parks and recreation.
Contact: Hidden Pond Nature Center Park Manager

Title: Naturalist at Huntley Meadows Park
Description: Gain practical experience in a hands-on setting developing skills needed for a career in environmental education, wildlife conservation and nature center operation, with a focus on programming and camps for elementary school- aged children.
Requirements: College students or graduates, preferably with a major in natural or physical science or environmental education and proven ability to work well with children.

Title: Natural Resource Management at Huntley Meadows Park
Description: Work with professional park staff to preserve and enhance wildlife habitat at a 1,554-acre wetland preserve. Gain practical experience in the skills and abilities needed for a career in wildlife management and environmental sciences, with an emphasis on habitat management, invasive exotic species control and field survey techniques.
Requirements: College students or graduates, preferably with a major in wildlife biology, environmental science or other applied sciences.

Title: History and Cultural Resources at Huntley Meadows Park
Description: Work with professional park staff to develop and lead programs on local history and cultural resource protection, and research local history, with an emphasis on the park's 1820 mansion with Mason family origins.
Requirements: College students or graduates, preferably with a major in history, cultural resources, education or other similar fields.
Contact: Huntley Meadows Visitor Services Manager

Title: Naturalist – Riverbend Park
Description:  Tucked away in a remote river setting, Riverbend Park is Fairfax County Park Authority's only riverfront park and includes over 400 acres of forest, meadows, and ponds. Riverbend offers diverse summer programming, including nine weeks of summer camps for campers age 3-15, family programs, visiting camp programs, and kayak tours. Because Riverbend Park is part of the Potomac Gorge system and has within its boundaries unusual and rare plant and animal species, field studies are conducted throughout the summer to monitor and continue inventorying species.
The intern will gain a diverse experience working with all age groups and program offerings. Initially the intern will assist with summer camps and then progress to leading and planning segments of camps. The intern will also assist with family programs, visiting camp programs, and field studies.
Requirements: Must enjoy and have enthusiasm for working with children. College students or graduates preferably with major in wildlife, biology, environmental science, or Parks and Recreation, ability to communicate effectively, research skills.
Contact: Riverbend Senior Interpreter

Title: Museum Aide -Sully Historic Site
Description: Intern to assist in public programming, history camps and giving public tours. Also learn behind the scenes museum operations such as collections care, museum administration/ filing in a unique historic house environment.
Tasks include: opening and closing buildings, caring for collections items, giving tours, working with school age children for history camp, doing office administrative duties.
Requirements: History, Museum Studies, Parks and Recreation, ability to communicate effectively, research skills.
Contact: Sully Park Manager

Title: Natural Resource Specialist Intern
Description: The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is seeking a natural resource specialist intern to join the Natural Resource Management and Protection (NRMP) Branch at Park Authority headquarters. This position is a member of a four person branch (plus limited term and volunteer staff) dedicated to natural resource management programs.
We are seeking a natural resources specialist intern with the ability to work independently and a 'can do' attitude. The position could entail a broad range of activities which would be developed depending upon need, qualifications and interest. Functions of the NRMP Branch include: Policy and Strategic Planning, Resource Management (resource inventories and plans, vegetation, wildlife, water resources, etc.); Technical Support; Land Acquisition; Park Planning and Development; Development Review; Outreach; and Education. For more information please visit Natural Resource Management and Protection Branch.

Possible areas of specialization could include:

• Invasive species field work (inventory and assess non-native invasive plants on parkland)
• Natural resource assessments and inventories
• Water resources
• Geographic Information Systems
• Education and Outreach
• Wildlife
• Forest management
• Natural areas restoration
• Natural resource planning and protection

NRMP is currently seeking two interns for June – August 2013. This internship is primarily field-based but will also incorporate an office component approximately one day per week.  Interns will work together as a pair to perform non-native invasive plant assessments on parkland across the county using a standard field protocol.  Interns will be trained in the survey method, conduct field surveys, and input their results into a GIS database.  Interns will have the opportunity to participate in other field and educational activities conducted by the Natural Resource Management and Protection Branch as events arise.  This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in the field of natural resources and develop field inventory skills.  Each intern will also have the opportunity to plan and implement a special 40-hour project in their area of interest. 
Requirements: College or Graduate student in natural resources, biology, ecology, botany, environmental science, wildlife management, geography, GIS or closely related field with some field work experience.

Title: Volunteer Programs Intern
Description: Assist in planning and evaluation of volunteer programs at Nature Centers including development of on-site volunteer program promotional materials and displays, data tracking and analysis. Interns gain a well-rounded experience in many areas, including: coordinating and implementing programs and events, writing for newsletters and other print pieces, motivating and supervising volunteers, customer service, general office management, and exposure in local government stetting This internship is well suited for individuals seeking careers in fields such as marketing, public relations, non-profit  management, business, and public administration.
Requirements: Has working, knowledge of computer operations, preferably Microsoft Office Products such as Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher and Excel, and internet search skills are a plus. You must be currently enrolled in a degree seeking program. Preferred area of course concentration would be non-profit management, business, communications, public administration or public relations. Must be junior, senior to be considered;

Title: Graphics Production
Description: Multiple projects which may include assistance w/design and camera-ready production of brochures, flyers, ads, interpretive signs and other graphics products; assistance with data entry in Publications Tracking System; and work on our award winning ResOURses Newsletter evergreen edition.
Requirements: Graphic design experience, competency in desktop publishing using MS Publisher or Adobe Indesign.

Title: Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for New natural and cultural history programs
Description: As part of a need to generate additional revenue and forge connections with the community. This intern would meet with local home owner's groups, faith based organizations, libraries and schools to explore partnering opportunities that expose the park programs to residents in the surrounding area.
Requirements: Enrolled in a communications, business, marketing or advertising program with an interest in the outdoors and parks. Strong written and oral communication skills required. You must be able to work without close supervision. Strong computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft office is a must.

Title: Social Media Marketing Internship
Description: Are you a student with a strong understanding of online communications? we have a great opportunity for you!  Assist with the planning and execution of major marketing and education campaigns through social media avenues like videos, pod casts and other new media avenues, Assist with the management of social media marketing opportunities, Assist with website development and design tasks for various programs and sites. Work with the development of marketing and implementation plans.
Requirements: College Junior or Senior with a concentration in Marketing, Communications, Journalism or related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Ability to complete projects ahead of or by deadlines, Ability to multitask, Strong interpersonal skills, Excellent research and writing skills Video production or editing experience a plus.
Contact: RMD Education and Outreach Manager

Title: Photographic Archives Management
Description: The Cultural Resource Management and Protection Section of the Fairfax County Park Authority houses approximately 20,000 photographic slides, prints and negatives from almost 30 years of archaeological research in Fairfax County. This photo archives is the most critical data collection relevant to archaeology in the County. It contains one-of-a-kind records of most of the archaeological work done in Fairfax County since 1975. It contains archaeological record shots and historic photographs. A previous intern developed an excellent library database designed to manage the slide collection. Initially this intern will adapt the slide database format to handle prints and negatives. That will include integrating the slide, print, and negative collections into one coherent, relational database and filing system. Time permitting, the intern will have the opportunity to take selected sets of each kind of photo record and complete the entire system for those sets. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in archival data management.
Requirement: College or graduate student in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, history, library science or closely related field.
Contact:  Collections Manager

Title: Archaeological Site Assessment
Description: To manage its prehistoric and historical archaeological sites, the Cultural Resource Management and Protection Section of the Park Authority maintains a database that contains both descriptive and contextual information on each. The internship will involve visiting archaeological sites and completing the Park Authority's “existing conditions” questionnaire; entering the form data into a database. By doing this the intern will become knowledgeable about attributes that are important to evaluating an archaeological site's research and preservation-related potential. The internship also will provide the intern with a working knowledge of how to manage archaeological data relevant to a collection of sites and their contexts.
Requirement: College or graduate student in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, history or closely related field.
Contact:  Senior Archaeologist

Title: Archaeological Collections Management
Description: The Park Authority has amassed an artifact collection containing approximately three million items spanning almost 30 years of archaeology and covering many of the 3,150+, recorded prehistoric and historical archaeological sites in Fairfax County. In many cases these are the only tangible remains of the cultures who occupied the sites. As with many collections facilities, continued archaeology has caused storage problems. This internship will involve assisting the staff Collections Manager in evaluating and reorganizing the collection, which was recently moved to our newly-renovated storage facility. It will involve serious decisions about consolidation and retention issues and the development of a new computer index and management system for the entire collection. In addition, the Section is looking to identify museum quality artifacts that can be used in later displays. All of these tasks will be the responsibility of the intern. This is an outstanding opportunity for anyone interested in collections management as a career.
Requirement: College or graduate student in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, history or closely related field but preferably with a demonstrated interest in archaeological collections management.
Contact:  Collections Manager

Title: Archaeological Field and Laboratory Assistant
Description: Highly valuable instructional participation on archaeological excavations. The candidate will assist archaeologists from the Cultural Resource Management and Protection Section with archaeological excavation at sites within the county. One of the sites that will be examined is the Mt. Air Historic Site, which has eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth century components. In addition, the intern will have the opportunity to conduct research and do laboratory processing. The intern will learn field methods and laboratory methods while providing much needed assistance to staff.
Requirement: College or graduate student in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, history or closely related field.

Contact: Staff Archaeologist

Title: Museum Collections Technician
Description: The Park Authority has over 6,000 objects in its Museum Collections, as well as a large collection of archival materials, books, photographs and other items. Students will work alongside professional staff and have a hands-on opportunity to learn and perform basic museum collections stewardship and collections management practices, such as research, cataloging and accessioning of historic objects, care and housing of historic objects, conducting inventory and environmental monitoring. Students may also assist with the design, development and layout of exhibits and written projects such as a portion of a Procedure Manual, Collections Plan, etc.) Interns are welcome to attend Collections Stewardship Committee meetings and can learn about other professional development opportunities.
Requirements: College senior or graduate student in museum studies, American studies, material culture, history, or closely related field.
Contact:  Collections Manager

Title: Museum Collections Research Assistant
Description: Students work with museum professionals to conduct primary research and developing projects with direct applications for Park Authority historic sites. Using primary resource materials students will conduct research to develop a project such as a small temporary or online exhibit, a furnishings plan, or interpretive program materials. Students will also receive training in handling museum collections, storage materials and methods, and photo documentation. Research projects may lead to opportunities for publication by the student.
Examples of projects include:

• Cataloging the Architectural Fragments Collection and historic structure restoration files.
• Transcription, cataloging and organization of the Lee Family Document Collection.
• Research early American dairying; write an interpretive essay placing the Sully dairy in context or write a furnishings plan for the Sully dairy.
• Transcription, cataloging and organization of the Machen agricultural account books; write an interpretive essay placing the Machen practices in context.
• Research agricultural practices in early America; prepare a list of implements appropriate for Sully or write an interpretive essay placing the Lee practices in context.
• Research land transactions in the early American republic; write an interpretive essay summarizing Lee's land transactions and placing them in context.
• Research financial systems in the early American republic; write an interpretive essay summarizing Lee's financial transactions and placing them in context.

Requirements: College senior or graduate student in American studies, history, material culture, historic preservation, museum studies or closely related field.
Contact:  Collections Manager