Historical Collection Intern I

Description

Operating Unit: Philanthropy Office 

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Report To: Director of Major Gifts

Classification: Unpaid Seasonal (5-10 hours weekly; flexible scheduling)

Who We Are

Girl Scouts create the world they want to live in and strive to make it better every single day. They explore their strengths, take on new challenges, and can always be themselves, regardless of background or ability. Working for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast (GSWISE) is much more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to bring your talent, passion, and perspective to a girl-centric, mission driven organization. We are seeking individuals committed to making a difference who are enthusiastic team players who want to join an organization with a proud history and a growing future. Joining our staff means working to full potential in a dynamic and diverse environment that strives for equity for all. 

Position Summary:

This Historical Collection Internship role plays a key role in organizing and preserving over 100 years of Girl Scout history and artifacts. During the spring semester of 2026, this role will work collaboratively and gain academic credit through hands-on experience learning about archiving, engaging in artifact preservation, and project planning for the “Sort and Protect” phase of the GSWISE historical collection project. 

Requirements

What You’ll Do (Job Duties)

•  Sort and organize historical items and artifacts to assist in creating plans for the wider preservation and curation project.
•  Learn about professional archiving and participate in early archival processes to prevent further deterioration of artifacts.
•  Collaborate with GSWISE staff to protect and preserve documents and artifacts.
•  Complete a final project or portfolio to meet university requirements based on an individual’s program.

Who You Are and Keys to Success

•  Undergraduate student in Museum Studies, Art History, History, Anthropology or related degree program required (2+ years of study preferred).
•  Critical thinker with strong initiative and can adhere to deadlines.
•  Detail-oriented, respectful of historical items, and able to handle delicate items with care.
•  Ask thoughtful questions to ensure understanding and tasks are completed accurately.
•  Display high integrity and maintain confidentiality.
•  Seek feedback and uses it to improve performance.
•  Work independently, show initiative, is flexible, and adapts easily to change.
•  Align to the philosophy and values of the Girl Scout program.
•  Occasional travel within the region is required. A valid driver’s license and use of your own vehicle are preferred. If so, you must comply with the council’s automobile insurance policy limits and have a driving record that meets the requirements of the council’s business auto insurance carrier. If you are unable to drive, a transportation plan must be submitted and approved prior to an official offer being made.
•  The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is required to sit at a computer workstation for extended periods of time, occasionally required to stand for long periods, and operate office equipment manually. The employee must be able to lift and/or move 10-15 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 25 pounds. Full range of body motion, including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.

EEO & Anti-Racist Statement

The Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast (GSWISE) has a vision for a deeply inclusive membership, staff, and volunteers. To foster a culture of belonging while providing equitable service delivery beyond Equal Opportunity requirements, GSWISE candidates must be committed to cultural competency growth and work within diverse teams. Our Girl Scout Law encourages us to seek racial equity for everyone and do our part to dismantle systemic racism. GSWISE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.