State Parks - Wilderness Road State Park - Interpretive Assistant - Open Until Filled

About the role

Interpreter Assistants provide meaningful interpretive and educational opportunities and experiences for park guests by interpreting the significance of the park’s natural, historical, and cultural resources at Wilderness Road State Park.

Responsibilities

• Assists with the development, planning, and implementation of historical interpretive programs and activities about 18th-century frontier culture, including third-person interpretation, historic-themed hikes, 18th-century skills demonstrations (blacksmithing and woodworking), children’s programs, self-guided activities, and lessons/workshops on other historical topics.
• Interpreters maintain interpretive accouterments and displays.
• Assists park visitors using professional customer service techniques.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ability to organize and conduct historical and cultural programs for the public.
• Strong and effective communication skills.
• Capable of working both independently and harmoniously as part of a team.
• Comfortable working outdoors.
• At least 17 years old.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willing to work evening shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Foundational knowledge of Virginia history, prior experience or education in American history, parks and recreation, or cultural studies preferred.
• Familiarity with 18th-century historic weaponry, including flintlock and artillery, is helpful.
• Experience is not required but is preferred; on-the-job training is provided.

Special Requirements

• Employees may be required to perform other park-related duties during emergencies or on a non-recurrent basis.
• 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.

Pay

Hourly Range: $14.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits

• Wage/seasonal positions are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30 and are not eligible for Commonwealth of Virginia benefits (health care, paid leave, etc.).
• Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
• After six months of service, wage staff are entitled to overnight facility discounts:
  • 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 (two-night minimum stay required).
  • Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts included; one-night yurt stays receive a 25% discount.