(Part-Time) Interpreter

General Statement of Duties

The year-round, part-time Interpreter position under the direction of the District Interpretive Services Supervisor seeks to present interpretive programs to school groups, families, community groups, and the public. Responsibilities include planning, preparing, and delivering talks, demonstrations, and promoting public interest in natural, historical, and cultural resources.

Essential Duties

• Aid in the development and delivery of interpretive presentations to students, families, summer camps, and the general public.
• Promote public interest and participation in interpretive programs through tasks, illustrated lectures, and dissemination of pertinent publicity.
• Work a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays, am or pm shifts, and in any type of weather.
• Register groups and individuals for programs, create invoices, prepare and send out correspondence, and arrange other school/group visit logistics.
• Greet visitors, answer questions and phone calls, and provide general information on park activities and facilities.
• Maintain indoor facilities and outdoor spaces, including captive animal and trail maintenance, as needed.
• May assist with special events.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree in nature interpretation, environmental education, biology or natural resources management or a related field, Bachelors preferred. Four or more years of related service may be considered.
• Experience in interpretation, education, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification, or the ability to obtain a CIG certification within one year of hire and maintain thereafter.
• Ability to learn the principles and practices used in developing and carrying out a diversified interpretive program.
• Ability to design science education programs that support the NGSS and Michigan Science Standards set by the Michigan Department of Education.
• Ability to promote and maintain cooperative working relationships with educational groups, park visitors, and other employees.
• Ability to demonstrate creativity and the ability to implement new initiatives.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate verbally to give tours, lead programs, and presentations.
• Ability to use carpenter, gardening, farming, and artistic tools.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to traverse sandy, marshy, and wooded areas with even or uneven terrain.
• Must maintain a valid Michigan driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
• May be assigned to work in other parks and districts as needed and if necessary.
• May be required to adjust schedule to meet organizational needs, including special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.

General Qualifications

• Knowledge of the principles and practices used in developing and carrying out a diversified interpretive program.
• Knowledge of and ability to design science education programs that support the specific grade level content expectations and Michigan Science Standards set by the Michigan Department of Education.
• Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification, or the ability to complete CIG certification within one year.
• Knowledge of and ability to collect ecosystem data using technical equipment.
• Ability to speak effectively before large groups.
• Ability to operate listed tools and equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with the public, outside agencies, and employees.
• Must be able to demonstrate creativity and the ability to implement new initiatives.