J-1 Summer Cultural Exchange Role (Supplemental Role) Medora, ND | Part Time | Seasonal (June-September)
THE THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION
"Believe you can, and you're halfway there."
- Theodore Roosevelt Since 2014, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) has been planning and building a new, ambitious kind of presidential library and museum. Other presidential libraries tell the story of a single individual, but the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL)
- being built more than a century after T.R.'s death
- will do more than preserve history.
The TRPL will be a people's library, bringing Roosevelt's values and relentless spirit to life at a critical time in our nation and world, while simultaneously championing the stories of all who "dare greatly, think boldly, care deeply, and live passionately." The library is currently being constructed in Medora, North Dakota, with a milestone planned for July 4, 2026
- America's 250th anniversary. Participants at the TRPL will learn from
- not just about
- Roosevelt's story, being transformed into the same stunning Badlands that served as the fulcrum in T.R.'s incredible life story. Guided by the pillar principles of leadership, citizenship, and conservation, the Foundation has partnered with innovative partners
- like the award-winning architecture firm, Snøhetta, and the best-in-class story crafters, the Future of Storytelling
- to build an institution like no other.
With plans to be the most sustainable presidential library and campus ever, a revolutionary approach to interpretive design, and programming that will spread the library's message into neighboring Theodore Roosevelt National Park and beyond across the globe, the opportunity to join a talented team in building and opening this institution is truly unique. About the Role This position is a supplemental, part-time opportunity for participants in the J-1 Summer Work Travel (SWT) Program who are primarily employed with another approved J-1 host employer. The role is designed to provide additional structured exposure to hospitality, guest services, and event operations in a cultural and tourism-driven environment. Assignments are scheduled in coordination with a participant's primary placement to ensure full compliance with all J-1 sponsor requirements, including total weekly hour limitations and work authorization. This position supports TRPLF operations during peak seasonal demand and is intended to supplement—not replace—core staffing needs. Participants will gain exposure to multiple areas of guest-facing operations, including: Café service support Culinary and kitchen assistance Visitor services and guest engagement Retail operations support Events and catering support Assignments are based on operational need and participant availability, and all duties remain within approved J-1 program and sponsor guidelines. Rotational Experience Associates rotate through key functional areas to build a well-rounded skill set: Café Operations Support daily café operations while developing customer service and multitasking skills. Learn beverage preparation, point-of-sale systems, and delivery of a high-quality guest experience.
Culinary / Kitchen
Operations Build foundational culinary knowledge and food safety practices. Gain experience in food preparation, kitchen workflows, and maintaining quality and consistency in a fast-paced environment. Visitor Experience & Retail Engage directly with guests by providing information, welcoming visitors, and supporting retail operations. Develop public-facing communication skills and the ability to create positive guest interactions. Events & Catering Participate in event execution from setup through service and breakdown. Gain exposure to event logistics, teamwork under pressure, and hospitality in dynamic environments. Core Skill Development Across all rotations, Associates focus on building critical competencies: Professional Communication Customer & Guest Experience Team Collaboration Time Management & Prioritization Adaptability & Resilience Problem Solving Attention to Detail Operational Awareness Program Outcome By the end of the program, Associates will have developed a versatile skill set applicable across industries including hospitality, business operations, customer experience, and event management. Participants will be better prepared to: Enter the workforce with confidence Communicate effectively in professional environments Adapt quickly to new roles and responsibilities Contribute meaningfully to team-based organizations J-1 Participation Requirements This role is apart-time, supplemental positionintended to complement a participant's primary J-1 placement Employment is contingent upon prior written approval from the participant's J-1 sponsor Participants mustremain in good standing with their primary employer at all times Work schedules will be coordinated to ensure this roledoes not interfere with primary job responsibilities or sponsor guidelines on total weekly hours All duties are structured to support the cultural exchange and professional development goals of the J-1 program Compensation & Schedule $20/hour This is a part-time position withvariable hours based on business needs and participant availability. While we aim to provide consistent scheduling,hours are not guaranteedand may fluctuate week to week. Scheduling is coordinated around the participant's primary J-1 role Minimum Requirements Current participant in a J-1 Summer Work Travel program Sponsor approval for secondary employment Availability for part-time hours aligned with primary placement Core Success Traits Strong communicationand willingness to engage with guests Reliability and accountability Ability to adapt to changing environments Team-oriented mindset Willingness to learn and take feedback Working Conditions Must be able to repetitively lift 20 lbs Ability to stand and remain on your feet for extended periods, up to 8-hour shifts, with scheduled breaks. Occasionally required to work outdoors Kitchen shifts will be working in temperatures of high heat environments
Location:
Medora, ND Employment Type:
Part-Time,seasonal (June-September)
Hours:
shifts vary based on availability; typically 4-8 hour shifts Shifts may include early mornings, late nights, weekends, and bank holidays EEO Statement The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. TRPLF does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law as a provision of employment opportunities and benefits. Reasonable Accommodation The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete your application, participate in an interview, or otherwise navigate our hiring process, please email careers at trlibrary.com. Our team will connect with you to explore the best way to support your experience. Our team will connect with you to explore the best way to support your experience.
