Staff Spotlight: Alexander Kim

Alexander Kim smiling next to the Hagerman horse at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

NPS Photo

Meet Alexander Kim, the museum curator for all of the South Idaho parks, which includes Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, and Minidoka National Historic Site!

Hagerman horse at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

NPS Photo

How did you find yourself at NPS?

I initially started working with the National Park Service in January of 2021. As a Paleontology Scientist-In-Parks intern, I was primarily tasked with managing the museum collections, identifying and cataloging paleontological specimens, and producing interpretive text. My internship led to being hired in September of that same year as a Museum Technician.

What do you do for the NPS?

I am now the museum curator for all of the South Idaho parks, which includes Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, and Minidoka National Historic Site. This entails oversight of museum operations and collections management, as well as occasional interpretive work and exhibit design.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

It is the responsibility of the parks to connect people with the natural history and cultural heritage of the sites that they are visiting. The ability to preserve these elements of the United States’ past for the education and enjoyment of others is very fulfilling.

Alexander Kim out by the water.

NPS Photo

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy reading, spending time with my friends, and giving my cat too much attention.

What does it mean to you to represent your community?

In all of our parks, there are strong ties between the site and the local communities. To be able to foster that connection and instill a sense of local pride for others is vital aspect of park work.

What advice do you have for youth and young adults thinking about a career at NPS?

Do not be afraid to pursue opportunities and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Test the waters with an internship if you can, because it can make entering the park service much easier down the line.