Job Description

The intern will work full-time with the Capitol Reef National Park (CRNP) Division of Resource Management & Science, assisting with natural resources-related field and office work. 

Critical elements of the internship include but are not limited to the following major responsibilities:

  • Conduct rare plant surveys
  • Conduct rangeland restoration activities
  • Conduct avian species monitoring (peregrine falcon, Mexican spotted owl, and songbird banding)
  • Native plant seed collection
  • Monitor springs, streams, and riparian areas
  • Enter field data into park databases and ArcGIS

 

The plant and wildlife surveys/monitoring typically require long hours in the field and hiking up to 10 miles a day, although 2 to 6 miles per day is more typical. Hikes are generally across rough terrain and off designated trails. Weather conditions will vary from cold winds or rain in the early spring to temperatures nearing 100 ℉ in the summer. Other challenging field conditions include the potential for high winds, and gnats or other biting insects. Candidates should enjoy being outdoors, be physically fit, be methodical and detail-oriented, have GPS experience, and be able to record data accurately and legibly. Skills using GPS units, digital cameras, and computer software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, ArcGIS) would be needed. Experience driving four-wheel drive vehicles on dirt roads would be beneficial. Interns would be supervised by the park Chief of Resource Management and Science but would be working primarily with the park Biologist.

Job Duration

The internship runs from May 5 through August 13, 2025; forty hours/week; four days/week (Monday-Thursday with occasional schedule changes), for approximately 14 weeks.

Obligations of the Intern

  • Complete some seasonal park employee on-site and online training.
  • Successfully complete a background check for access to NPS computers.
  • Comply with Capitol Reef National Park and Capitol Reef Field Station regulations, policies and procedures.
  • Complete projects and assignments on time.
  • Wear appropriate Utah Valley University clothing and maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
  • As a representative of both UVU and the NPS, maintain a high level of professionalism and flexibility at all times.
  • Adhere to the specified dates of the agreement.
  • Follow all safety regulations and guidelines; practice safe work habits; properly check out, use, care for, and check in park equipment, vehicles and property.

Compensation

The internship provides a wage of $15.00/hour, plus medical benefits.

Housing

The park provides the intern with one private bedroom in a coed multi-bedroom house with shared living, kitchen, and bathroom facilities.

Intern qualifications

  • Must be a current student at Utah Valley University (preferably in junior or senior year of program).
  • Must have background and interest in areas of ecology, botany, horticulture, GIS, outdoor leadership, and/or natural resources management.
  • Must be willing to live at Capitol Reef National Park throughout the duration of the internship.
  • Must be mature, independent, and self-motivated.
  • Must be able to hike, load materials, and carry out activities related to the UVU and NPS mission.

Cordell Roy Scholarship

The Cordell Roy Scholarship has been set up to pay for student fees for internship credit for the Capitol Reef Interns.

Cordell Roy Scholarship

To Apply