What are the responsibilities and job description for the PARK INTERPRETER position at State of Arkansas?
Date: Feb 6, 2025
Req ID: 47069
Location:
Morrilton, AR, US, 72110
Category: DEPT OF PARKS AND TOURISM
Anticipated Starting Salary: $32,405
Park Interpreter
Position #: 22092445
Salary: $32,405
Grade: GS05
Requisition: 47069
Location: Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton, AR
Closing date: 02/28/2025
This position plans, coordinates, and leads interpretive outdoor recreation programs and special events for park visitors, schools, civic groups, and private organizations. Programming focuses on facilitating engaging experiences and guiding park guests toward a personal sense of place regarding the natural, cultural, and historical resources of Petit Jean State Park and the surrounding area.
Applicant must have knowledge of flora, fauna, geology, history, outdoor recreation, and ecology. Applicant must have technical and communication skills sufficient to guide safe, engaging outdoor recreation programs to include rock climbing, camping, hiking, and more.
Position researches and records data regarding park resources and programs; writes detailed lesson plans for programs; coordinates publicity efforts through media releases, writing news articles, and preparing content for flyers and brochures; and occasionally delivers presentations using audio-visual equipment. Other duties include assisting with strategic planning; trail maintenance; and performing office, front desk, and hospitality-related duties as necessary. Applicant may serve as park manager on duty in the absence of other personnel, and assist in park operations including emergency response situations such as medical, weather, and search-and-rescue incidents.
Applicant must have or be able to complete the American Red Cross Wilderness and Remote First Aid course and ARC CPR for the Professional Rescuer. Applicant must have a high comfort level with being in remote outdoor situations leading and guiding guests. Must possess a valid driver’s license, be able to traverse rough terrain on foot, and work a varied shift, including weekends and holidays in widely varying weather conditions outdoors. A criminal background check and a driver’s record check are required.
This position offers a full benefit package including paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance, and retirement pension. Housing and utilities are provided.
Preferred qualification: Experience and technical skill (preferably 3 years) with sport rock climbing to include moving on rock, belaying, rope handling, bouldering, and lead climbing in a single-pitch situation; volunteer or work experience in a setting involving rock climbing; experience leading basic introductory clinics and outings. In absence of the above, preferred candidates should have a readiness to gain these.
Applicants must meet or exceed the following qualifications: The formal educational equivalent of a bachelor's degree in natural science, communications, parks and recreation management, or a related field. Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.
We are an EOE/ADA/AA employer. Minorities and women encouraged to apply.
Applications accepted online ONLY: https://arcareers.arkansas.gov/
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.
Position Information
Class Code: P035C
Grade: GS05
FLSA Status: NON-EXEMPT
Salary Range: $32,405.00 - $51,686.00
Summary
The Park Interpreter is responsible for the research, development and presentation of programs designed to explain and establish the value of the natural, cultural, and historic resources within the park sites and for promoting the use of Arkansas State Parks. This position are governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.
Functions
Researches historical, geological, and/or biological data and plans type and content of interpretive programs to meet the needs and learning styles of various groups to illustrate and explain park resources and their values. Researches, locates, identifies, catalogues, documents, and conserves artifacts. Researches, locates, identifies, and catalogues plants and animals located within the park and documents them in the park's Natural Resource Inventory. Researches and designs interior and wayside exhibits, multi-media presentations, brochures, pamphlets, maps, and other materials to provide information and interpretation. Presents programs, demonstrations, and lectures to various groups inside and outside the park. Develops and presents special programs that pertain to the mission and scope of the park. Reviews films, slides, collected information, and specimens. Writes narratives, scripts, outlines, descriptions, and explanations of exhibits, history, geology, archaeology, or ecology to illustrate and explain the nature of the park. Promotes the park and park programs through news releases and media coverage. Performs other duties as assigned.
Dimensions
None
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of Arkansas' natural, cultural, and historic resources. Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of multi-media equipment. Knowledge of the principles of advertising and media communications. Knowledge of the principles of scientific research and the techniques of data collection and analysis. Knowledge of environmental and safety laws and regulations pertaining to parks and recreation. Ability to research, script, and design exhibits and displays. Ability to prepare and present interpretive and illustrative oral and written programs. Ability to greet visitors and provide information concerning the state. Ability to maintain records and write reports.
Minimum Qualifications
The formal educational equivalent of a bachelor's degree in natural science, communications, parks and recreation management, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Licenses
None
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
Salary : $32,405 - $51,686
