Seeking Summer Intern
Trail Maintenance and Volunteer Coordinator Intern
Term: April – October
Schedule: 32–40 hours per week (seasonal)
Compensation: $15/hour
Housing: Park housing provided
Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Reports to: Laura Ann Johnson, Executive Director
Position Summary
The Trail Maintenance and Volunteer Coordinator Intern supports the day-to-day operation and volunteer coordination of seasonal maintenance activities for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, related park resources, and Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes (FOSBD) programming. This role combines hands-on field work with volunteer management, scheduling, coordination, and data tracking. The intern plays a key part in keeping the trail safe, clean, and enjoyable for thousands of visitors each season.
Primary Responsibilities
Volunteer Coordination & Scheduling
Schedule day-to-day volunteer teams during high season
Coordinate and communicate logistics for volunteer maintenance projects
Support volunteer training and orientation as needed
Track volunteer hours and activity data
Trail Management
Monitor the complete Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail weekly to inspect conditions
Identify, document, and address trail issues
Maintain accurate and up-to-date maintenance logs (in coordination with staff)
Collect and post TRAFx trail counter data (training provided)
Manage routine maintenance activities
Work with Park staff on other trail maintenance projects as needed
Required Qualifications
Interest in outdoor recreation, conservation, environmental stewardship, parks, or related fields
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to ride a bike or willingness to learn for weekly trail assessments
Comfortable working independently and as part of a team
Valid driver’s license (for travel between work sites)
Preferred
Experience with trail work, outdoor maintenance, or facilities work
Experience working with volunteers
Familiarity with power tools, mowers, or blowers (training provided)
Ability to track and record data accurately
Ability to maintain First Aid/CPR certification (NPS provided)
Ability/willingness to become chainsaw certified by NPS standards
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift 30–50 lbs
Ability to walk, bike, or stand for extended periods
Operation of maintenance tools and equipment (training provided)
Comfortable working on roadsides and/or trails with appropriate safety gear
What We Provide
Seasonal park housing
On-the-job training (equipment, safety, trail assessments, TRAFx)
Valuable experience in parks, conservation, and volunteer management
A meaningful role supporting a nationally recognized trail system
Professional Development & Learning Opportunities
In addition to routine trail and volunteer work, the intern will have opportunities to learn from and work alongside National Park Service staff in areas such as resource management, visitor services, facility operations, interpretation, and natural resource protection. The internship also provides exposure to the roles of park partner organizations and how they collaborate to support Sleeping Bear Dunes at the program and project level.
Other tasks may be assigned as necessary and time allows.
Work Environment
This role involves both field and office work. Field work includes roads and trails within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Safety training and PPE will be provided.
To apply, please send your resume to lauraann@friendsofsleepingbear.org