PARK INTERPRETER

Park Interpreter

Position #:           22154900

Salary:                 $32,405

Pay Grade:          GS05

Requisition:        49250

Location:             Mississippi State Park Marianna, AR

Closing date:      05/26/2025

The Park Interpreter is responsible for planning, coordinating, directing, and presenting outdoor recreation-focused interpretive programs and special events for park visitors, civic groups, schools, and other organizations, to include guided trail walks, kayak tours, nature demonstrations, history talks, and outdoor skills workshops. Programming focuses on facilitating engaging experiences and guiding park guests toward a personal sense of place regarding the natural, historical, and cultural resources of Mississippi River State Park and the surrounding area.

Duties include researching and recording data regarding programs, flora and fauna of the park; organizing and preparing publicity efforts; drafting reports; writing copy for brochures and exhibits; crafting structured presentations that create memorable guest experiences; collaborating with US Forest Service and other partners; and leading projects for conservation of natural and cultural resources. Also, assisting with strategic planning, trail maintenance, and performing park operations duties as necessary. Applicant may serve as park manager on duty in the absence of other personnel and assist the Superintendent as directed, including participating in emergency response situations such as medical, weather, and search-and-rescue incidents.

Applicant must have or be able to complete the AGFC Boater Education Course, 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 on the water, strong swimming skills, and the ability to operate watercraft. Applicant must have knowledge of Arkansas flora, fauna, and outdoor recreation safety standards and ethics. Applicant must have technical and communication skills sufficient to plan and coordinate safe, organized, engaging programs and special events.

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.

Minimum qualifications The formal educational equivalent of a bachelor's degree in natural science, history, 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.

EOE/AA/ADA Women and minorities are 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.