PARKS, HERITAGE, & TOURISM PROGRAM COORD

Date: Jul 29, 2025

Req ID: 51562

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72201

Category: DEPT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137

Parks, Heritage, & Tourism Program Coordinator

(Tourism Public Relations and Sales Manager)

Req: 51562

Position #: 22092085

Salary: $52,137

Grade: SGS06

Location: Tourism, Little Rock, AR

Closing date: Until Filled

Overview: The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Public Relations & Trade Relations Coordinator to support the Public Relations and Trade initiatives for Arkansas Tourism. This position plays a key role in promoting The Natural State to domestic and international audiences by assisting with media relations, press and influencer trips, and travel trade events.

This is an exciting opportunity for a tourism professional passionate about storytelling, partnerships, and showcasing Arkansas as a premier travel destination.

Job Duties: Public Relations Support: Assist in planning and executing familiarization (FAM) trips for travel journalists, influencers, and content creators, including itineraries, logistics, and hospitality coordination. Serve as a point of contact for visiting media and ensure a positive and seamless experience while traveling in Arkansas. Support the PR team in media tracking, reporting, and organizing press coverage and performance data. Coordinate photo/video releases, fact-checking, and destination information for media inquiries.

Trade Show & Industry Event Support: Coordinate and attend domestic and international trade shows, consumer travel shows, and tourism sales missions to represent Arkansas Tourism. Manage pre-show and post-show logistics including booth setup, promotional materials, and lead tracking. Build and maintain relationships with travel buyers, tour operators, and industry professionals to generate interest in Arkansas travel experiences. Support Arkansas Tourism partners and stakeholders in maximizing exposure and connections at trade events.

KAS: Strong organizational and communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively across departments. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and media tracking tools; familiarity with CRM systems and project management platforms a plus. Willingness to travel occasionally, including some evenings and weekends for events and press trips. A passion for Arkansas and its tourism offerings is a must!

A bachelor’s degree with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field preferred. One year of experience in public relations, communications, or related areas.

Minimum Qualifications: At least two years of experience in program coordination, tourism development, historic preservation, park management, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field preferred. One year of experience in public relations, communications, or related areas.

This position offers a full benefit package including paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance and retirement pension.

EOE/AA/ADA Women and minorities encouraged to apply.

Applications accepted online only: https://arcareers.arkansas.gov

Please visit us on the web at https://adpht.arkansas.gov to find out more about us.

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

Job Series: Parks – Career Path

Classification: Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Program Coordinator

Class Code: RPA24P

Pay Grade: SGS06

Salary Range: $52,137- $77,163

Job Summary

The Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Program Coordinator is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing programs that support state parks, cultural heritage, and tourism initiatives across Arkansas. This position ensures program success through effective coordination, stakeholder engagement, and compliance with state policies.

Primary Responsibilities

Plan and execute statewide programs related to parks, historic preservation, and tourism development. Monitor and assess program effectiveness, recommending improvements to enhance visitor experiences and community engagement. Organize and facilitate public events, workshops, and outreach programs to educate and engage residents and visitors. Track and report on project progress, expenditures, and outcomes to ensure fiscal responsibility. Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations governing historic preservation, environmental conservation, and tourism development. Collect and analyze data related to visitor trends, economic impact, and program performance. Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and policy recommendations for department leadership. Maintain accurate records of program activities, budgets, and community partnerships. Develop educational materials and interpretive content to enhance public awareness and appreciation of Arkansas’s natural and cultural heritage.

Knowledge and Skills

Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate programs effectively. Strong time management and multitasking skills to handle multiple projects at once. Experience with budgeting, financial tracking, and grant writing. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for public engagement and stakeholder coordination. Strong public speaking and presentation abilities to represent the department at events. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including government agencies, businesses, and community members. Ability to analyze data, assess program effectiveness, and implement improvements. Knowledge of state and federal policies related to parks, heritage, and tourism. Understanding of historic preservation, natural resource management, and tourism development. Familiarity with Arkansas heritage sites, state parks, and cultural tourism trends. Knowledge of best practices in park operations, event planning, and visitor services.

Minimum Qualifications

At least two years of experience in program coordination, tourism development, historic preservation, park management, or a related field.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A 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.

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.