Intern Conservation Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Position: Museum Intern (fall 2026)
Status: Full-time (40 hours/week) for 10 weeks
To Apply
Applications must include a resume, a cover letter, and two professional or academic letters of reference. Applicants may apply via Shaker Village’s employment portal (package documents as a single file and upload under “Apply with a Resume”) or by submitting their application directly to the Collections Manager at ewrightson@shakervillageky.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with a final deadline of August 30. Applications will only be reviewed if they are complete and include all requested materials.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill (SVPH) is on a mission to inspire generations through DISCOVERY, by sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers. SVPH is committed to bridging historic preservation, land conservation, engaged learning and warm hospitality to present an unrivaled destination experience.
Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States from 1805 until 1910, SVPH manages the country’s largest private collection of original 19th century buildings and is the largest National Historic Landmark in Kentucky. Onsite amenities at SVPH include overnight accommodations, dining and catering services, retail shops, event and meeting venue, historical exhibitions and tours, farm and garden area, nature preserve, multi-use trail system, equestrian stable and an extensive calendar of special programs, activities and events.
Museum Intern Job Summary
Intern/s will work under the direction of the Collections amp; Education Director and the Collections Manager, assisting with projects in both the Collections and Program Departments and gaining an understanding of the scope and breadth of museum operations. After an initial training and orientation period, intern/s will divide their time between general collections work and public-facing programming. Collections work may include entering biographical information about Pleasant Hill Shakers, scanning/describing historic photographs, cataloging institutional archives, and assisting with other collections management tasks. Time and interest permitting, intern/s may also work on a research project to further departmental priorities (such as researching and compiling content for a new public program or exhibit). As part of the Program Team, intern/s will be trained to give dynamic, engaging tours on various topics and may assist with other special events (such as the annual Harvest Fest).
This internship is a career development opportunity designed to give college students or recent graduates (2 years or less out from graduation) a venue for learning and improving museum-related skills. This is a temporary position (10 weeks @ 37.5 hours/week) that includes a $1500 stipend. Exact dates to be discussed, but the internship will likely run from Tuesday, September 22 through Saturday, December 5. Interns will generally work Tuesday-Saturday; excused absences will be granted for specific Saturdays as needed.
Responsibilities and Duties
Complete assigned project/s responsibly, with care and attention to detail
Develop accurate, in-depth knowledge of Shaker life, culture, and history
Behave in a professional manner at all times
Follow the SVPH Employee Handbook, particularly with regard to policies for harassment/discrimination, drugs, weapons, and workplace bullying
Assist with projects as directed by the Collections amp; Education Director
Work courteously and cooperatively with fellow interns, employees, and volunteers
Maintain open communication with the Collections amp; Education Director about work assignments and expectations, the internship process, and any issues that may arise
Skills and Qualifications
Currently enrolled or recently graduated college student with a strong interest in museum programming, studying history or other relevant fields (students from non-traditional majors are encouraged to apply; please use your cover letter to explain how museum work is relevant to your field of study or your professional aspirations)
Enthusiasm for Shaker Village’s mission
Willingness to learn new skills quickly
Articulate and confident when speaking; outgoing personality comfortable interacting with the public
Precise and attentive to details; good at performing repetitive tasks (like scanning photos or entering content into collections database) without losing focus
Comfortable working outdoors and in indoor spaces that have only minimal heating/cooling
Optional: Prior experience interning, working, or volunteering at a museum, special collections library, or archive
Optional: Prior experience with databases, data entry, or other similar, computer-based operations
Optional: Prior experience leading tours, speaking with the public, or a theatrical background
Physical Requirements
Ability to maintain visual attention for considerable lengths of time
Ability to sit and stand for considerable lengths of time
Must be able to ascend and descend stairs on a frequent basis
Ability to operate computers and general office equipment
Regularly lift and/or move up to 40 lbs. and lift and/or move heavier loads as needed
Working Environment and Conditions
This position involves working in both indoor and outdoor environments, during all seasons and types of weather conditions.
This position may require some evening and weekend work.
This position is subject to a background check and drug testing.