Applications Due June 27, 2014

PARK INTERPRETER II
Agency:     Department of Parks and Tourism
Office:     Historic Washing State Park
Section:
Date Posted:     06/10/2014
Posting Expires:     06/27/2014
Summary
The Park Interpreter II is responsible for the research, development, and presentation of programs designed to explain and establish the value of the natural, cultural, and historic resources within the park sites, for promoting the use of Arkansas state parks, and for assisting in the development park master plans. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.
Typical Functions
Researches historical, geological, or biological data and plans type and content of interpretive programs to meet the needs and learning styles of various groups to illustrate and explain the park resources and their values. Prepares and submits budgetary requirements for programs. Researches, locates, identifies, catalogues, documents, and conserves artifacts. Researches, locates, identifies, and catalogues plants and animals located within the park and documents them in the park’s natural resource inventory. Researches and designs interior and wayside exhibits, multi-media presentations, brochures, pamphlets, maps and other materials to provide information and interpretation. Presents programs, demonstrations, and lectures to various groups inside and outside the park. Develops and presents special events that pertain to the mission and scope of the park. Reviews films, slides, collected information, and specimens. Writes narratives, scripts, outlines, descriptions, and explanations of exhibits, history, geology, archaeology, or ecology to illustrate and explain the nature of the park. Promotes the park and park programs through news releases and media coverage. Leads and/or assists in the protection of ecological and culturally sensitive areas of the park by researching and identifying sensitive areas and determining need for public boundaries. Leads in writing park interpretive plans and assists with researching and writing the park master plan. Performs other duties as assigned.
Special Job Dimensions
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills
Knowledge of Arkansas’ natural, cultural, and historic resources. Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of multi-media equipment. Knowledge of the principles of advertising and media communications. Knowledge of the principles of scientific research and the techniques of data collection and analysis. Knowledge of environmental and safety laws and regulations pertaining to parks and recreation. Ability to research, script, and design exhibits and displays. Ability to prepare, present, and illustrate written and oral interpretive presentations. Ability to greet visitors and provide information concerning the state. Ability to maintain records and write reports. Ability to promote the park, advertise programs, and coordinate events. Ability to budget and provide specifications for interpretive materials, supplies, performers, and equipment.
Minimum Education and/or Experience
The formal educational equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in natural science, communications, parks and recreation management, or a related field; plus one year of experience in interpretation, program development, or a related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Preferred Qualifications
We will not consider any applications that don’t show at least one year of supervisory experience. Preferred are applicants with a history background.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Agency Specific Information
This position assists the Chief Interpreter in the development and implementation of interpretive programs at Historic Washington State Park. Job duties include planning and organizing special events, preparing displays and program aids, presenting interpretive programs, conducting tours, writing news releases and articles, and supervising a staff of six to thirteen tour guides depending on the season. The Park Interpreter will also write grants, prepare work schedules, complete performance reviews, and perform other duties as assigned. Applicants with experience in living history are preferred. A criminal background check is required.

Applicants must meet or exceed the following qualifications: the formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in history, historical interpretation, public history, communications, parks and recreation management, or a related field; plus one year experience in interpretation and one year supervisory experience.

For more information, view the full employment listing by clicking here.