Internships (6) - Holland Museum (4/13/26)

Posted on 2/2/26

Collections Intern 

Department: Collections

Reports to: Curator of Collections 

Basic Purpose

Responsible for supporting the digitization of the Holland Museum archives and collection, including the preparation of object documentation and photographs and the transfer of all collection data into an online database. 

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Assist in on-going collections database development and management, including creating and managing object records, drafting object descriptions, uploading object photographs and scans, recording storage locations, cataloging, unifying lexicon, accessioning, and inventory. The intern will pick a category from a selection of topics not yet featured on our public database.
• Assist in processing and documenting accessions, loans, and deaccessions in accordance with museum best practice. Learn how to handle and digitize artifacts and archival materials. 
• Perform historic research as needed, using sources from archival documents, Internet databases, etc.
• Interact with museum visitors in an open, friendly manner.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, install, and market an exhibition or gallery installation that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
• • Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
  • Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
  • The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present results of the project at the end of the summer. 

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in a related field such as museum studies, public history, information science/archives, or history. Demonstrated experience handling artifacts, working with historic collections in a museum setting, creating artifacts records in a computer database, and performing historic research is preferred.

 

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• A self-starter with the ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.
• Reliable, with the ability to follow tasks through to completion and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and display excellent professional judgment in a collaborative environment.
• Knowledge of and commitment to museum best practices as established by the American Alliance of Museums, including best practices for collection stewardship and digital preservation.
• Must have exceptional customer service skills, with the ability to work with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Suite.
• Demonstrated understanding of image capture equipment, including cameras, lighting, and digital scanners.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Work Schedule

Collection interns must work 20 hours per week for 10 weeks, June-August. The Intern Council will meet weekly for two hours on Wednesdays. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references to Rick Jenkins, Curator of Collections, rick@hollandmuseum.org. Deadline to submit is April 13, 2026.   

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum

Communications Intern

Department: Communications

Reports to: Director of Development and Communications

Basic Purpose

Responsible for supporting the marketing at the Holland Museum, the Communications intern will work to expand our membership base, send weekly e-newsletter communications and press releases, and be responsible for curating and managing the Museum’s social media.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Gain experience in social media, print design, web content editing,  and project management
• Maintain confidentiality
• Maintain a professional demeanor, including during training sessions and with other staff and volunteers.
• Perform a variety of other administrative and clerical functions in support of the department’s mission including assisting with correspondence, coordinating mass mailings and data entry.
• Other duties as requested or assigned.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, install, and market an exhibition or gallery installation that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
• • Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
  • Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
  • The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present results of the project at the end of the summer.

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in communications or a related field. One to three years’ experience working in customer service or communications is preferred.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must have exceptional customer service and communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Interest in marketing, public relations, event management, graphic design, and fund development.
• Willingness to learn, a “can do” mentality.
• Creative, with analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Able to work independently and follow through on tasks to completion.
• Ability to work with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Windows/Mac OS, email, the Internet, social media, etc. Database software knowledge a plus.
• Ability to pass a background check

Work

The Communication Intern must work 20 hours per week for 10 weeks, June-August. Some evening and weekend hours may be required. Intern Council will meet weekly for two hours on Wednesdays. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

This is a grant supported internship with a $1,000 stipend. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume, a sample social media post or way to demonstrate understanding of social media work, and the names and contact information for three professional references to Kate Leighton-Colburn, at kate@hollandmuseum.org by April 13, 2026.   

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum

Exhibits Intern

Department: Education and Exhibitions

Reports to: Curator of Exhibitions

Basic Purpose  

To conduct research for future exhibits at the Holland Museum, assist Curator of Exhibitions in developing new ways to exhibit our collection, and help with the installation of the summer exhibition. 

Responsibilities and Accountabilities 

• Conduct historic research in a variety of different ways (archives, library, online research, etc.)
• Work with museum staff and exhibits committee to develop exhibit content
• Assist with writing labels and choosing artifacts from the museum collection
• Handle historic artifacts under the supervision of museum staff
• Perform a variety of other administrative and clerical functions in support of the department.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, install, and market an exhibition or gallery installation that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
• • Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
  • Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
  • The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present results of the project at the end of the summer.

Education and Experience 

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in a related field is preferred. Proficiency in Spanish desired.    

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Must have exceptional customer service and communication (verbal and written) skills.  
• Represent the Museum positively and professionally at all times.
• Willingness to learn, a “can do” mentality. 
• Creative, with analytical and problem-solving skills and a focus on DEI education.  
• Able to work independently and follow through on tasks to completion.  
• Ability to work with a diverse public and workforce.  
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.  
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Windows/Mac OS, email, the Internet, etc.  
• Ability to pass a background check.  

Work Schedule  

Exhibits Interns must work 20 hours per week for 10 weeks, June-August. Intern Council meets weekly for two hours on Wednesdays. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references to Maddalena Frissora, Curator of Exhibitions, maddalena@hollandmuseum.org. Candidate are encouraged to also submit a writing sample. Deadline to apply is April 13, 2026.

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum

History Interpretation Intern

Department: Education

Reports to: Curator of Learning & Community Engagement

Basic Purpose

History Interpretation Interns share the stories behind the Settlers House and Cappon House historic homes by conducting weekly public tours, helping our visitors make personal connections with the people and places of the past. This position also conducts historical research and develops interpretive tours for the Cappon and Settlers House sites.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Greet and interact with museum visitors in an open, friendly manner.
• Interpret historic events and facts for a wide range of audiences.
• Staff all operating hours at the historic Cappon and Settlers House sites, as well as additional office hours as assigned.
• Perform tours by appointment, assist visitors as a docent, and assist with public programs on occasion and/or when requested.
• Perform historic research using sources from archival documents, Internet databases, etc. Finish the inventory of the Museum’s Educational object collection located at the historic homes.
• Maintain a professional demeanor, including during training sessions and with other staff and volunteers.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, install, and market an exhibition or gallery installation that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in a related field such as museum studies, public history, or history. Demonstrated experience performing historic research in an academic setting. Experience working in customer service is preferred. Proficiency in Spanish is desirable.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must have strong customer service and communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Willingness to learn, a “can do” mentality.
• Creative, with analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Able to work independently and follow through on tasks to completion.
• Ability to work with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and to climb stairs.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Windows/Mac OS, email, the Internet, etc.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Work Schedule

Interns must work 20 hours per week for a minimum of 10 weeks, June-August. History Interpretation interns must be available on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references to Loren Stevens, Curator of Learning & Community Engagement, at loren@hollandmuseum.org. Deadline to apply is April 13, 2026.  

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum

Visitor Services / Tourism & Hospitality Intern

Department: Visitor Services

Reports to: Danial Jones, Visitor Services & Retail Manager

Basic Purpose

To support the Visitor Services department at the Holland Museum by gaining hands-on experience in museum hospitality, tourism engagement, and front-of-house operations. The intern will learn how museums function as public-facing cultural destinations, supporting visitor experience, admissions, retail environments, and data-informed decision-making related to attendance, tourism patterns, and visitor engagement. The intern will gain exposure to how Visitor Services supports a multi-site museum campus, learning how visitor orientation, wayfinding, and hospitality practices adapt across different historic spaces and visitor contexts, including collaboration within the region’s tourism and hospitality network.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Learn and support front-of-house operations under the supervision of Visitor Services staff, including visitor greeting, orientation, and wayfinding.
• Observe and assist with admissions and gift shop workflows to understand how museums balance hospitality, accessibility, and revenue stewardship.
• Assist with collecting and organizing visitor data, including attendance counts, visitor origin information, and basic visitor flow observations, and gain exposure to how this data informs tourism and engagement strategies.
• Support visitor-facing promotion of museum programs, exhibitions, events, and membership opportunities.
• Gain exposure to museum retail and hospitality practices, including merchandising, signage, and maintaining a welcoming front-of-house environment.
• Learn how Visitor Services operates across a multi-site museum campus, including collaboration with local and regional tourism partners to support visitor outreach and destination engagement.
• Perform a variety of administrative and clerical tasks in support of the Visitor Services department, as appropriate.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, and install an exhibition that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
• • Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
  • Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
  • The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present results of the exhibition at the end of the summer.

Education and Experience 

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate, with an interest in tourism, hospitality management, museum studies, public history, communications, or a related field preferred. Experience in customer service, hospitality, retail, or tourism-related settings is a plus. 

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Strong interest in museums, tourism, hospitality, and visitor experience.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Professional demeanor and ability to represent the museum positively at all times.
• Willingness to learn, with a collaborative and proactive attitude.
• Organized and able to manage multiple tasks with guidance and supervision.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Creative and analytical thinking skills, with interest in how visitor data informs decision-making.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including working knowledge of Microsoft Suite and basic data entry.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift up to 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.
• Ability to pass a background check. 

Work Schedule  

Exhibits Intern must work 20 hours per week for 10 weeks, June-August. Intern Council meets weekly for two hours on Wednesdays. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume and the names and contact information for three professional references to Danial Jones, Visitor Services & Retail Manager, danial@hollandmusem.org by April 13, 2026. 

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum

Youth and Family Engagement Intern

Department: Education

Reports to: Curator of Learning & Community Engagement 

Basic Purpose

Youth and Engagement Programs Interns staff the museum’s hands-on Spark!Lab Smithsonian STEAM exhibit space and support our community outreach initiatives by attending events as representatives of the Holland Museum, as well as through the development of family-focused educational opportunities.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Staff operating hours of our Spark!Lab Smithsonian space, engaging visitors and facilitating hands-on learning for a wide range of audiences throughout the summer.  
• Represent the Holland Museum at local summer outreach events like Meet Up & Eat Up, Juneteenth, Fiesta, and the Macatawa Water Festival which develop and build the Museum’s relationships with a diverse local community.
• Perform historic research using sources from archival documents, internet databases, etc. to create curriculum-based traveling trunks to be used in K-12 schools in concert with museum/historic house visits.
• Conduct walking tours engaging community members in the history of the Holland community as needed.
• Maintain a professional demeanor, including during training sessions and with other staff and volunteers.
• Other duties as requested or assigned in support of the department’s mission including assisting with correspondence; coordinating mass mailings; preparing materials for tours, programs, and exhibits, etc.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, and install an exhibition that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
• Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
• Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
• The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present the results of the exhibition at the end of the summer.

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in a related field such as museum studies, public history, or education. Demonstrated experience working with children and families. Experience working in customer service is preferred. Proficiency in Spanish is desired. 

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must be outgoing, with exceptional customer service and both verbal & written communication.
• Willingness to learn, a “can do” mentality.
• Creative, with analytical and problem-solving skills and an interest in DEI education.
• Able to work independently and follow through on tasks to completion.
• Ability to work with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.
• Must have valid driver’s license and must be able to provide own transportation to and from Meet Up and Eat Up meeting sites.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Windows/Mac OS, email, the Internet, etc.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Work Schedule

Youth and Family Engagement Interns must be available to work Wednesdays, Fridays, and every other Saturday. Evening and weekend hours as needed. Interns must work 20 hours per week for a minimum of 10 weeks, June-August. This is an on-site internship.

Compensation

A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion
The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds.

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work.

To Apply

Submit cover letter, resume and the names and contact information for three professional references to Loren Stevens, Curator of Learning & Community Engagement, loren@hollandmusem.org by April 13, 2026. 

For more information, check the website: Holland Museum Summer Internships – Holland Museum