State Parks - Widewater State Park - Interpretive Assistant - Open Until Filled

Virginia State Parks; State Center (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free parking

Employee discounts

Job summary

Virginia State Parks in Widewater State Park is seeking an Interpretive Assistant to provide meaningful educational opportunities by interpreting the parks’ natural, historical, and cultural resources. You will assist with developing and conducting interpretive programs and outreach, including roving around the park and communicating with the public, schools and groups.

Water-based programs are required, including kayaking and fishing.

Qualifications

• Ability to develop, organize, and facilitate natural, cultural, and historical programs for all ages.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for professional customer service interactions.
• Experience using a PC and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs., and work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Help to maintain interpretive displays and supplies in good working order, as well as the daily care/health of the animal ambassadors in the Visitor Center, which includes snakes and turtles.
• Keep accurate records for visitation and programs.
• Operate the gift shop cash register.
• Participate in both indoor and outdoor facility cleanliness and maintenance.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Skills

Program development

Communication skills

MS Office

Physical ability

Job description

Home » Job openings at DCR

Job openings at DCR

DCR is looking for talented people to fill positions listed below. Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date.

Generally applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications (Word) for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.

Full-time (salaried) employment offers

• A choice of healthcare plans.
• Vacation, family, personal and sick leave.
• A retirement plan.
• A sickness and disability plan.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Deferred compensation with employer match.

Certain positions require a criminal background check, a conflict of interest financial statement or both. Law-enforcement positions require a fingerprint-based FBI investigation. DCR is an EEO/AA/ADA Employer.

For seasonal and hourly-wage positions at state parks, contact the particular park for details.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, all new hires must complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Executive branch agencies are required to use the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

For additional information on these openings, contact [e-mail]. Find positions available throughout Virginia at Virginia Jobs.

Interpretive Assistant

State Parks - Widewater State Park

Open Until Filled

Hourly Range: $14.50-$15.50

Widewater State Park is accepting applications for the Interpretive Assistant position.

Job Summary

We are seeking a qualified and enthusiastic individual to provide meaningful educational opportunities and experiences to park guests by interpreting the significance of the parks’ natural, historical, and cultural resources. This person will assist with developing and conducting interpretive programs and educational outreach, including roving around the park and corresponding with the general public, schools, scout groups, and home school organizations. Water-based programs are a required part of this position’s obligations, namely kayaking and fishing. We provide on-the-job training, including paddle guide certification and other professional development workshops.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Help to maintain interpretive displays and supplies in good working order, as well as the daily care/health of the animal ambassadors in the Visitor Center, which includes snakes and turtles.
• Keep accurate records for visitation and programs.
• Operate the gift shop cash register.
• Participate in both indoor and outdoor facility cleanliness and maintenance.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to develop, organize, and facilitate natural, cultural, and historical programs for all ages.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for professional customer service interactions.
• Experience using a PC and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs., and work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Additional Considerations

• Prior experience and/or knowledge in biology, wildlife studies, history, or parks and recreation.
• Working knowledge of Virginia’s local flora and fauna, as well as Virginia state history.
• Conversational speaking skills in world languages including, but not limited to, Arabic, Spanish, American Sign Language, etc.

Special Instructions

We provide on-the-job training, including paddle guide certification and other professional development workshops. Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid state driver’s license.

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

Minorities and EEO Statement

Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Parks Service experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT

Employee Discounts

DCR employees are encouraged to visit Virginia State Parks! Check out our employee discounts.

• Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
• DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service), are entitled to overnight facility discounts such as:
• 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 prior to 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.