Human Resources Internship - 2027 Season

For 54 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation.

Job Summary

The Human Resources Intern supports NOC's HR department through a combination of employee housing coordination, international J-1 student support, and general HR responsibilities. This hands-on internship provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in human resources while helping create a positive and welcoming environment for NOC employees.

The intern will assist with employee onboarding, HR administration, housing operations, and employee engagement initiatives. A key focus of the role is supporting NOC's international students by coordinating transportation, organizing cultural experiences, and helping them navigate daily life in a new country.

This is a seasonal role that will operate between March and October of 2027

Essential Responsibilities

• Human Resources Support
• International Student Experience
• Employee Housing Support

Qualifications

• Previous HR, J-1 program, or employee housing experience is helpful but not required.
• Availability from early March through October.
• Ability to drive for extended periods as needed.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet NOC's company vehicle insurance requirements.
• Ability to handle sensitive employee information with discretion.
• Comfortable interacting with employees from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Hospitality, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform other HR-related duties and special projects as assigned by the HR Director.
• Provide general administrative support to the HR department while maintaining employee confidentiality.
• Assist with HR projects, surveys, and basic reporting.
• Support employee engagement initiatives, staff events, and recognition programs.
• Assist with maintaining employee records and updating HR systems.
• Support recruiting efforts, including job postings, applicant communication, and interview scheduling.
• Assist with new-hire onboarding, orientation, and employee paperwork.
• Assist with housing inspections, inventory, and general housing administration.
• Maintain communication with housing mayors, residents, and the HR team.
• Coordinate room access and reset door codes between occupants.
• Respond to and communicate housing concerns, including lockouts, maintenance requests, and supply needs.
• Assist with staff housing move-ins, checkouts, and room preparation.
• Maintain regular communication with students to support a positive experience throughout their employment.
• Serve as a resource for international students, helping them navigate daily life and connect with appropriate support.
• Coordinate airport transportation for international student arrivals and departures.
• Plan and organize cultural and recreational experiences, including local attractions, hiking, rafting, and other outdoor activities.
• Coordinate transportation for J-1 students to essential services, shopping, and other approved destinations.

The above noted job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of this position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of this position.

Please note that as an employer with over 100 employees, NOC will be required to comply with any OSHA Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard should that standard be enacted. 

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.