Interpret Naturalist 1

About the role

The DNR is seeking to fill multiple seasonal Interpretive Naturalist positions at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park near Preston, MN. The anticipated work schedule will generally be days that include weekends and holidays and some evenings; the anticipated season dates are from May through Labor Day (September) each calendar year; however, the actual season dates may start later or end earlier to meet contractual obligations or agency needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present interpretive activities by developing and conducting interpretive tours, operate lighting system on the cave tour routes, present safety and conservation messages to cave tour visitors, and present interpretive talks and/or activities above ground.
• Perform information and sales duties by meeting and greeting the public at assigned information/ticket sales area, sell tickets and gift store items; perform remittance, conduct inventory of gift store merchandise, and maintain shelves, counters, and walls in public view.
• Perform administrative functions by responding to inquiries from the public orally and in writing, attend and participate in staff meetings, record, and file visitor attendance, and create interpretive signs, forms, and spreadsheets.
• Perform operational duties by enabling safe, smooth, and efficient cave operations to be carried out.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in one of the physical sciences such as ecology, zoology, botany, geology, geography, OR a cultural resource focused degree such as American history, anthropology, archeology, OR parks and recreation management OR environmental education and interpretation OR equivalent.
• Three months relevant public speaking experience in a formal or informal setting.

Qualifications

• Advanced oral communication skills sufficient to present information on environmental and cultural values, facts, and theories in a clear and understandable manner to diverse individuals and groups.
• Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports and write interesting and educational news releases.
• Advanced human relations skills.
• Ability/willingness to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
• Understanding of interpretive techniques including the ability to assess audiences and the effectiveness of interpretive media.
• Skills in historical, cultural, and natural resource research and literature search techniques.
• Computer skills, i.e., MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

Skills

• Prior experience conducting interpretive programs in Minnesota State Parks.
• Prior work experience in Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
• Six months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
• Understanding of Minnesota's natural and cultural history and resource management.
• Knowledge sufficient to identify plants and animals.
• Knowledge of park resources.
• Understanding of basic interpretive exhibit and display standards and techniques.
• Understanding of educational curriculum and materials sufficient to assess their effectiveness.
• Illustration/photography/visual presentation skills.
• Well-developed problem-solving skills.
• Organizational skills sufficient to develop, schedule and implement summer programs.
• Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.

Benefits

Your benefits may include: Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals: Training, classes, and professional developmentFederal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.