Interpretation Assistant - Full-time

About the Role

Responsible for developing and implementing a wide range of innovative, high-quality interpretive strategies that support the Garden’s mission. Engages visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities through interpretive programming throughout the Garden in ways that cultivate personal experiences, deepen knowledge, support interest-driven learning, foster deeper connections with the Garden and its global work, and inspire more sustainable choices, lifestyles, and actions beyond their visit.

Responsibilities

• Provides Educational Visitor Engagement:
  • Develops, researches, creates, prepares, and implements non-structured interpretive programming and experiential learning opportunities, particularly within the Children’s Garden, Tower Grove House, Brookings Exploration Center, PlantLab, and special exhibit areas. Topics include nature, ecosystems, habitats, plant science, biodiversity, adaptations, native and invasive plants, history, collections, sustainability, outdoor exploration, citizen science, and seasonal happenings.
  • Works closely with the Manager of Interpretation and Interpretation Supervisors to develop interpretive materials such as signage, print or online publications, guided or self-guided tours, sensory-friendly resources, audio, visual, interactive digital media, and other interpretive opportunities.
• Ensures Positive Visitor Experiences:
  • Engages visitors and provides general information regarding directions, venues, attractions, special events, classes, and other Garden opportunities.
  • Creates a positive, healthy, and safe learning environment that is developmentally, culturally, and topically appropriate.
  • Responds to and resolves or reports visitor concerns and complaints; uses judgment to determine when to escalate situations to management.
• Maintains Interpretation & Educational Resources:
  • Assists with creating, procuring, maintaining, storing, and organizing program supplies.
  • Monitors and assesses interpretive facilities, conducts routine safety checks, submits maintenance requests, and reports concerns to management.
• Adheres to Safety Guidelines and First Aid Provider:
  • Communicates and enforces the Garden’s rules of etiquette and safety guidelines to visitors.
  • Monitors visitor behavior, administers First Aid/CPR as necessary, and reports all incidents to management.
• Performs administrative tasks related to departmental projects, including tracking statistics, submitting internal requests, restocking visitor information materials, supporting volunteers, assisting with training, contributing to operational updates, providing tours, and representing the department at meetings.
• Performs Opening & Closing Duties:
  • Participates in pre-season set-up and post-season closing operations, including moving/cleaning equipment, setting up/removing props, and stocking/removing merchandise.
  • Assists with other Garden events as requested.
• Follows established policies and procedures, including the Employee Handbook, Garden Safety Guidelines, and Department Policies.
• Promotes a culture of teamwork and cooperation within the division and throughout the Garden.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• One to three years of experience developing, preparing, and delivering engaging educational opportunities for diverse audiences is strongly preferred.
• Strong presentation, public speaking, communication, interpersonal, and writing skills.
• Experience researching and developing interpretive programs and experiential learning opportunities.
• Demonstrated understanding of visitor-centric approaches and ability to respond to inquiries in a friendly and helpful manner.
• Experience working with audiences of diverse ages, ethnicities, experiences, and educational backgrounds.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment; tactful, respectful, and a good listener.
• Demonstrated organizational, problem-solving, and process improvement skills.
• Ability to prioritize work, perform under pressure, and manage time effectively.
• Scheduling flexibility to routinely work weekends, holidays, and some evenings.
• Ability to work independently, learn new skills quickly, and take initiative.
• Ability to provide visitor experiences and work on multiple projects in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Must maintain a positive attitude and professional appearance at all times.
• Adherence to all health and safety guidelines, as well as Garden and departmental policies, uniform standards, and requirements.

Education

• Associate’s Degree in education, science education, ecology, environmental science, natural resources, public horticulture, interpretation, recreation, or equivalent required. Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Completed college-level coursework in interpretation, early childhood education, botany, biology, history, museum studies, or related subjects.
• An equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience may be considered.

Skills

• Proficient in using computers, keyboards, and Microsoft Office suite (Windows XP, Outlook, Word, Excel, Publisher).
• Solid Internet and library research skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English (oral and written).
• Basic math skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and decimals.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.

Certifications

• Must obtain and maintain CIG (or equivalent) certification through the National Association for Interpretation.
• Must obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification (adult and child).

Physical Demands

• Ability to effectively use a computer keyboard and touch screen monitor.
• Ability to lift and carry a minimum weight of 20-40 pounds.
• May be required to perform tasks at varying heights (e.g., climb ladders).
• Ability and willingness to work in varying temperatures and all weather conditions (e.g., temperatures over 100°F or below 0°F, rain, snow).
• Requires standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching for extended periods (85% or more of the workweek).

Work Environment

• Fast-paced, team-oriented environment with hands-on participation in delivering informal interpretive programming to diverse, non-captive audiences.
• Works outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Comfortable working in close proximity to the public in a safe, friendly, and professional manner.
• Must wear Garden-provided uniform shirts, jackets, and adhere to all dress code requirements.

Schedule

Full-time position requiring the ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.