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Herd Internships at Custer

Hospitality Education Readiness and Development. Join our herd today and explore 71,000 acres of possibilities as you test-drive skills for your future hospitality career.

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Are you ready to join the HERD?

At Custer State Park Resort, we are committed to fostering the next generation of hospitality management. Our HERD program is designed for young professionals to gain real-life experience and skills in the hospitality workforce.

I’ve appreciated the amount of knowledge I have gained about the industry and the guidance of those above me. My perspective on my plans is much clearer because of this internship.

– Becky, manager in training, 2024

Through the completion of the HERD program, students will gain the necessary and valuable skills to jump into the workforce post-graduation. Interns will complete the hours required in multiple departments, leaving Custer State Park & CSP Ventures, LLP well-rounded and versed in managing sales, managing human resources, and gaining professional marketing experience, catering, and events.

Intern Key Functions
  • Strives to exceed the expectations of every guest, every day
  • Observes and participates with experienced workers to acquire knowledge of methods, procedures and standards required for performance of departmental duties.
Perks & Benefits
  • Free room and board
  • VIP Employee Pass for Black Hills attractions
  • Complimentary resort activities
  • End of contract performance-based bonus
  • Certificate upon completion

Most of all, previous students appreciated living and working in beautiful Custer State Park, with endless wildlife encounters, miles of picturesque hiking trails, and amazing opportunities to enjoy their time exploring everything that the Black Hills has to offer.

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Required Skills & Qualifications

We search for enthusiastic candidates who not only have the travel bug but also the desire to provide excellent customer service. Key skills that align with our expectations include:

  • Customer service. An upbeat and positive outlook goes a long way.
  • Collaboration. Teamwork and a willingness to jump-in and tackle any task is essential in hospitality.
  • Flexibility. A drive to learn new skills while adapting to an ever-changing environment.
  • Independence. The ability to work on individual and team projects is crucial to success.
  • Attention to detail. Precision and detail-orientation are extremely important for the guest experience.
Prerequisites
  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Active enrollment or same-year graduation from an accredited college, university or technical school.
  • Available a minimum of 10 consecutive weeks with no schedule conflicts; preference given if schedule allows for starting by mid-May and ending after October 1.
  • Eagerness to learn & adapt.
  • All majors & fields of study considered; preference given to hospitality & tourism field or related.

Available Positions

Applications are welcome year-round. Our vetting process starts in October and lasts through January, with positions awarded by March 1 annually. All interns will start work as early as mid-April and end as late as mid-October, with a 10-week minimum commitment.

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Human Resources Internship

As an HR intern in the HERD program, you will play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless and positive experience for our employees, throughout their time at Custer State Park Resorts. HR interns will work closely with our HR director to gain experience in the hospitality industry. The individual in this position should have strong verbal and written communication abilities, a positive and outgoing attitude, and excellent problem-solving skills. Click the link below to learn more about this position.

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Two interns talking while writing on a note pad and laptop
Hiking trail in the black hills

I was able to experience the inner workings of a corporate workplace while exploring the Black Hills.

– Caitin, HR Intern 2024

Sales & Event Management Internship

The Sales and Events Management HERD internship is a hands-on opportunity for young professionals to gain real-life experience working in the hospitality industry. Throughout this program, you will learn the operations and functions of event management in all banquet and catering services. Strong candidates possess the ability to work well with people, learn quickly on their feet and oversee operations both with supervision and independently. Click the link below to learn more.

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Three interns talking and writing on laptops and note pads

Manager in Training

As a manager in training intern in the HERD program, you will work with the manager to learn operations, while following company policies and practices that affect each phase of the resort business. There are two types of managers in training: a retail manager in training and a hospitality manager in training. Each of these positions requires one to be a clear communicator and a good team worker in our collaborative environment. Click the link below to learn more about the internships.

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Stables Equine Management

The stables Equine intern in the HERD program is a unique opportunity for those in the Equine field. If you are looking to expand your knowledge about what it takes to run the stables, this is the position for you! You will assist the stables/ranch manager in organizing all stables operations and functions per standards set by the company. Click the link below to learn more.

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Group of interns taking a selfie on a smart phone
Custer State Park Resort Interns
Dock overlooking Sylvan Lake

Custer State Park Resorts provided me with valuable hands-on sales experience essential for my career, while also allowing me to create unforgettable memories and build lasting relationships with my peers.

– Alex, Sales & Catering Intern 2024

Yes, please plan on having a roommate, especially during the summer months. Candidates who stay through the end of the season may or may not be upgraded to individual housing, based on availability when summer positions come to a close.

Our internships are a minimum of 10 consecutive weeks with no schedule conflicts; with preference given for strong candidates with schedules that allow for a start date by mid-May and ending after October 1.

If you are living in the dorms, you must provide your own:

• Twin-size bedding (sheets, pillows, and blankets)
• Bath towels/mats
• Shower shoes
• Toiletries including, but not limited to, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, hand soap, etc.
• Cleaning supplies
• Wastebasket

We are not liable for loss of personal effects and do not recommend that you bring items of value.

Some additional items to consider bringing:

• Swimwear
• Flashlight
• Clothing hangers
• Umbrella
• Bicycle

Outerwear for cool periods early and late in the season, and remember even summer temperatures can dip to 50 degrees or less at night.


You do not need a car. We do have a company van system that can take interns back and forth to town on scheduled days. If you do have a vehicle; it is nice to have complete freedom to explore the hills.

Laundry machines are coin-operated and located at every dormitory location except Legion Lake Lodge. Other laundry facilities are located at Coolidge General Store, Blue Bell Lodge Store, Sylvan Lake Lodge cabins, and the laundromat in the town of Custer. Please supply your own laundry soap.

Wifi is available at each lodge employee dining room and dormitory rec rooms for those of you that are completing summer courses. You are welcome to invest in a personal hotspot.