About the role#
The Pala Band of Mission Indians is seeking a GIS Intern I to assist in maintaining the Tribe’s GIS program. This is an unpaid, part-time, temporary position that serves as an entry point for those with little or no prior experience. You will receive hands-on training in ESRI ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS Field Maps. Interns are expected to work a minimum of 16 hours per week.
What you'll do#
- Scan and organize paper and digital records.
- Enter and update attribute information in GIS datasets and Excel records.
- Review existing GIS data for errors, missing values, and duplicates.
- Prepare and print maps to fill routine data requests.
- Collect field data using GPS units and tablets alongside staff.
- Apply GIS concepts and software standards through on-the-job training.
What you'll need#
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and email.
- A desire to learn and acquire new skills both independently and with assistance.
- A valid California Driver’s License.
- Ability to pass a background check and a fingerprint-based background check pursuant to Public Law 101-630.
- Agreement to maintain a drug-free workplace, including passing pre-internship and random drug testing.
- While not required, an AA degree, GIS certificate, or relevant coursework is a plus.
Location & details#
- This position is located on-site in Pala, California.
- This is an unpaid internship with rolling start dates.
About Pala Band of Mission Indians
The Pala Band of Mission Indians is a government agency based in northern San Diego County. Founded in 1875, the tribe manages a 12,000-acre reservation for Cupeno and Luiseno members. The organization operates a diverse portfolio of entities, including a casino resort, a shooting range, a radio station, and a motocross raceway. Its leadership focuses on economic development alongside community programs for education, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.
How to get in at Pala Band of Mission Indians
Securing an internship with the Pala Band of Mission Indians requires a proactive approach to their specific application windows. Because these roles often fill quickly, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a matching position is published, allowing you to apply among the first applicants before the pile grows. Applying early ensures your materials are seen while the recruiter is still actively reviewing the initial batch of candidates. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the specific recruiters behind these roles. Reaching out directly to ask about the position or a potential referral often improves your response rates compared to submitting an application into a general queue. This direct contact demonstrates genuine interest in the specific goals of the Pala Band of Mission Indians.
