State Parks - Grayson Highlands State Park - Interpretive Ranger - Open Until Filled

About the Role

Grayson Highlands State Park is accepting applications for an Interpretive Assistant position. This role involves developing, planning, marketing, and implementing interpretive programs and activities that focus on the natural and cultural resources at Grayson Highlands State Park. Programs will include guided hikes, campfires, children’s programs, wildlife programs, and other environmental education programs. When not conducting programs, the candidate will assist with maintaining and upkeep of all interpretive exhibits, equipment, and kiosks. Responsible for completing the Annual Interpretive Report. Candidate may be required to perform park-related duties as needed during emergencies, as well as other duties as assigned. Housing is not included. This is a year-round position with the majority of hours focused from April to October; limited hours November to March.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and facilitate interpretive programs and educational outreach.
• Manage upkeep of interpretive and historic displays and educational material; maintain accurate record keeping for programs and attendance.
• Assist park guests while providing excellent customer service and keep accurate records for visitation and programs.
• Work outdoors in all types of weather, stand for long periods, traverse uneven ground, and carry, pull, and/or lift 50 pounds unassisted.
• Perform park-related duties as needed during emergencies, as well as other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ability to organize and conduct nature, culture, and history programs for all ages.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to interact with the public and provide informative and engaging talks.
• Experience in public speaking is a plus.
• Must be friendly, outgoing, and able to work unsupervised and/or with a team.
• Must possess a valid Driver's License.
• Must be willing to work shift work. Weekends and holidays are required.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a park or similar setting.
• Experience with biology, history, parks and recreation, or wildlife studies.
• Ability to compose, organize, and conduct nature, culture, and history programs and events for all ages.
• Experience with natural or historical interpretation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to respond to emails, phone calls, and interact with the public professionally.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Knowledge and ability to identify common flora and fauna of the park and surrounding area.

Special Conditions

• Employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
• Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form; DCR participates in E-Verify.
• A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.
• Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.

Pay

Hourly Rate: $15.00

Benefits

DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service) are entitled to the following employee discounts at Virginia State Parks:

• Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
• Free camping outside of the Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day period in sites designed for up to six people.
• Free camping Sunday night through Thursday night (excluding the night before a holiday) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Fifty percent discount on cabins (up to 3 bedrooms) outside of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, for a maximum of 14 nights. All reservations require a two-night minimum. Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts are included; one-night yurt stays only receive a 25% discount.