What are the responsibilities and job description for the Interpretive Park Guide I position at Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, Inc?
Interpretive Park Guide I
Seasonal Position: Mid-February thru mid-November (40 hrs./week, weather permitting)
Supervised by the Interpretation & Education Programs Manager
Objective:
The Interpretive Park Guides work with the Department of Interpretation & Education to connect visitors with the importance of park resources. The Park Guide should have an interest in the natural world and be able to relate higher-level concepts to visitors in a way that is understandable and clear. Park Guides should have the ability to learn the flora and fauna of the mountain and present inspiring, research-based and compelling programs to audiences of all ages. Applicants must be able to independently research, prepare and present a variety of programs and interpretive tables.
Major Duties:
- Prepare and present daily interpretive programs throughout the mountain
- Monitor for safety and answer questions at Linville Peak and the Swinging Bridge
- Constantly exhibit a guest service attitude, a smile, and an interest in guest comfort and service
- Assist in response during inclement weather and partial mountain closures
- Create non-personal interpretive media such as handouts, exhibits and guidebooks
- Rove park trails and visitor areas to provide informal interpretation and customer service
- Distribute park information and answer guest questions
- Record regular community science weather observations
- Assist with the planning and implementation of special events
- Serves as a frontline representative by modeling and teaching conservation of the natural world
- Assists with park operations in various capacities
- Respond to emergency calls and take appropriate action following guidelines and procedures
- Responsible for maintaining litter-free grounds
- Other duties will be assigned as necessary, especially during peak visitation days
Qualifications:
- Working towards/have a degree in biology, environmental studies, history, or a related field
- Experience developing and implementing interpretive programs or the ability to learn
- First Aid/CPR certification, or willingness to get certified
- NAI Certified Interpretive Guide or NC Certified Environmental Educator preferred
- Capable of learning local flora and fauna, and how to handle educational animals
- Ability to be flexible with the daily/weekly schedules based on visitation and weather
- Reliable transportation (occasionally we use personal vehicles to get around the park)
- Must have good hiking boots and gear for the outdoors (we provide uniform shirts and some rain gear)
- Ability to lift 50 lbs