PARK INTERPRETER

Park Interpreter

Position #:           22092079

Salary:                   $32,405

Pay Grade:          GS05

Requisition:       

Location:              Delta Heritage Trail State Park (Barton, Arkansas)

Closing date:      Until Filled

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 Delta Heritage Trail State Park and the surrounding communities. 

Position researches and records data regarding park resources and programs; writes detailed lesson plans for programs and logistics plans for special events; coordinates publicity efforts through media releases, writing news articles, and preparing content for flyers and brochures. This park is still under development, thus the position also has significant duties researching history and natural resources of the immediate area, developing communication and networking in local communities, and writing and fact-checking for exhibits and other interpretive media. 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 knowledge of flora, fauna, Arkansas history, outdoor recreation, and ecology. Applicant must have technical and communication skills sufficient to guide safe, engaging outdoor recreation programs to include gravel and road cycling, hiking, flatwater recreational paddling, and camping. 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.

Applicants must meet or exceed these qualifications: The formal educational equivalent of a bachelor's degree in natural science, communications, parks and recreation management, education, 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.

Preferred qualifications include: Documented experience in oral history gathering, interpretive writing, and interpretive planning; experience and skills with outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, cycling, kayaking, and camping.

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.

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.