PARKS, HERITAGE, & TOURISM INTERPRETER I

Location: Pinnacle Mountain State Park and multiple other Arkansas state parks (Polk, Benton, Cross, Garland, Hot Spring, Lee, Pulaski counties). Available sites: Lake Degray (Bismarck), Hobbs State Park (Rogers), Mississippi River State Park (Marianna), Village Creek (Wynne), Lake Ouachita State Park (Mountain Pine/Hot Springs), Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area (Wickes/Mena).

Anticipated starting salary: $15.33/hour. Positions are part-time, classified as Extra Help, with durations of 6 to 9 months beginning March, April, or May and lasting through fall. Work schedules vary by park and season; employees can expect 35-40 hours per week during peak visitation. Housing is provided at some parks but is not guaranteed.

About the Role

The Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Interpreter I is responsible for assisting in the development and presentation of engaging programs that educate and inspire visitors about Arkansas’s natural, cultural, and historical resources. This entry-level position supports interpretive initiatives in state parks, historic sites, and other heritage locations by conducting tours, facilitating educational activities, and providing excellent visitor services.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and presentation of guided tours, educational programs, and special events.
• Engage visitors through storytelling, hands-on demonstrations, and nature-based activities.
• Support the creation of self-guided materials, exhibits, and interpretive signage.
• Conduct school group presentations, nature walks, and historical reenactments.
• Provide exceptional customer service by greeting guests, answering questions, and offering recommendations.
• Promote Arkansas’s natural and cultural resources through enthusiastic public outreach.
• Educate visitors on conservation principles, historical preservation, and wildlife protection.
• Assist in historical research, artifact preservation, and environmental stewardship projects.
• Support conservation initiatives by encouraging responsible visitor behavior in parks and historic sites.
• Assist with park operations duties such as answering phones, camper registration, retail sales, and housekeeping/maintenance.
• Maintain interpretive props, equipment, and educational materials.
• Track program attendance, visitor feedback, and outreach efforts.

Requirements

• At least one year of experience in interpretive programming, environmental education, museums, education, or a related field.
• Strong verbal communication skills to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to simplify complex historical, environmental, or scientific topics into accessible content.
• Comfort speaking to large groups and leading interactive activities.
• Basic knowledge of interpretive techniques, environmental education, and historical preservation.
• Ability to assist in the development of age-appropriate, engaging educational programs.
• Creative thinking to enhance visitor experiences through interactive storytelling and exhibits.
• Experience working with diverse groups, including families, school groups, and tourists.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established interpretive guidelines.
• Willingness to learn Arkansas history, ecology, and cultural heritage through research.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least two years of college education in natural science, outdoor recreation, park interpretation, communications, park administration, history, education, forestry, or a related field.
• Relevant volunteer experience, documented experience in public speaking and writing, and coursework in interpretive methods.
• Working knowledge of Arkansas natural/cultural history.
• At parks with lakes and rivers: experience and strong skills in swimming, boating, and kayaking.