(Part Time) Interpreter

Huron–Clinton Metroparks; Michigan; On-site; USD 22,275 - 25,898; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Retention bonus up to $5.75/hour

Job summary

Huron–Clinton Metroparks seeks a year-round, part-time Interpreter to present interpretive programs to school groups, families, and the public, highlighting Southeast Michigan's natural and cultural history. Responsibilities include planning talks, delivering talks, and promoting public interest in resources across the district.

The role requires an Associate degree in a relevant field (Bachelor's preferred) and 4+ years of related experience or credit toward minimum education.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in nature interpretation, environmental education, biology, or natural resources management; Bachelor's preferred.
• Applicants with 4+ years of related service will be credited toward minimum requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver interpretive presentations to students, families, and the public.
• Promote programs through talks, demonstrations, and publicity.
• Work varied shifts including weekends and holidays.
• Register groups, create invoices, and manage visit logistics.
• Greet visitors and provide information on park activities.

Skills

Interpretation experience

CIG certification

Public speaking

Schedule flexibility

Education

Associate degree in nature interpretation

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Database software

Scheduling software

PowerPoint

Word processing

GPS unit

Job description

PAY RATE: $16.17 - $18.80 per hour DOQ (up to 1,500 hours per year)

Eligible part‑time employees will receive up to a $5.75 per hour retention bonus for all hours worked from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

INTERPRETER

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Under the direction of the District Interpretive Services Supervisor or the Farm Center Interpretive Supervisor, this year‑round, part‑time Interpreter position seeks to present a variety of interpretive programs to school groups of all levels, families, community groups and other members of the public, to share the rich natural and cultural history of Southeast Michigan at the Huron‑Clinton Metroparks. Work responsibilities in this position involve assisting in planning and preparing talks, presenting talks, demonstrations, and promoting public interest in the appreciation of natural, historical and cultural resources. This position performs a variety of professional and technical duties related to interpretive programs and operation of nature centers, farms, and museums for an assigned district.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general direction of either the District Interpretive Services Supervisor or the Farm Center Interpretive Supervisor. The position works independently and exercises some judgment and discretion in completion of duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

The list below is intended to describe the general nature of duties only. Employees shall perform other duties as assigned.

• Assist 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, work any day of the week, 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.
• Maintenance of indoor facilities and outdoor spaces, including captive animal and trail maintenance, as needed.
• May assist with special events.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS – INTERPRETER – LEVEL P3

Associate degree in nature interpretation, environmental education, biology or natural resources management or a related field, Bachelors preferred. Applicants with 4 or more years of related service will be given credit toward meeting the minimum educational requirements and will be considered for the position.

• 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.
• Ability to perform essential duties.

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT USED

Personal computer including database, scheduling, publishing, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, and word processing software; calculator, copy & fax machines; phone, GPS unit, radios, automobile and heavy farm equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Employee generally performs work in an inside environment. Occasionally, the employee will be required to work in an outdoor environment, where weather conditions include heat, rain, and snow.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Selection process may include, but is not limited to, any or all of the following: formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interviews, reference check, job‐related tests, psychological exam, and physical exam to include drug screening.

These duties are illustrative and may be modified. The job description is not an employment agreement and is subject to change by HCMA based on the needs and requirements of the organization.