Parks Planning Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We're protecting and enhancing America's National Park System for present and future generations.

National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), the nation’s oldest and largest national parks nonprofit advocate, has an exciting opportunity for Wayfinding Design Intern.   

This internship supports the development of a wayfinding and signage system for Blackwell School National Historic Site in Marfa, Texas. The selected intern will collaborate with NPCA and partners including the National Park Service, City of Marfa, Blackwell School Alliance, and TxDOT to design directional signage that improves visitor access, navigation, and overall visitor experience. This work will contribute to the continued development and visibility of one of the newest units of the national park system. 

Position Description (Duties & Responsibilities):

·       Collaborate with project partners including the National Park Service, City of Marfa, Blackwell School Alliance, and TxDOT to support the development of directional and interpretive signage for Blackwell School National Historic Site

·       Assist in the design and layout of wayfinding signage, incorporating principles of accessibility, visibility, and user experience

·       Develop visual concepts, mockups, and design drafts for signage

·       Support site analysis and spatial planning by reviewing maps, visitor flow, and key access points to inform signage placement

·       Ensure design work aligns with TxDOT standards and guidelines

·       Participate in meetings with internal staff and external partners to present ideas, gather feedback, and revise designs

·       Assist with preparation of final design files and materials for implementation

Internship Term: September – December

Location Requirement: Preferred candidates should be based in West Texas, with strong preference for applicants in or near El Paso. Familiarity with the region and ability to conduct occasional site visits or local coordination is highly desirable.

Location: West Texas

Schedule: Part-time; up to 20 hours per week

Compensation: $18-$26 per hour, depending on experience

Tangible deliverables that will be achieved: 

·       Draft and final wayfinding signage designs for Blackwell School National Historic Site

·       Visual mockups and presentation boards illustrating signage concepts and placement

·       Supporting materials such as maps, diagrams, or design guidelines

·       Final design files prepared for partner review and potential implementation

Preferred Qualifications:

• Current or recent college graduate (within one year of graduation)
• Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Graphic Design, or a related field
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or equivalent design software
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, or SketchUp is a plus
• Strong visual communication and layout skills
• Interest in public history, cultural landscapes, or place-based storytelling
• Ability to work independently and collaborate in a remote team environment
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to incorporate feedback

Physical Effort and Dexterity: While performing the duties of the job, the employee is typically required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; talk or hear. The employee may lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job may include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Employer’s Rights: NPCA reserves the right to revise this position description at any time. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between NPCA and employee and is subject to change by NPCA as the needs of NPCA and requirements of the job change. The above is not an exhaustive list of the requirements for the position.