Interpretation Assistant

Missouri Botanical Garden•St. Louis, MO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Interpretation Assistant develops and implements engaging interpretive strategies and informal educational programming that support the Garden’s mission. The role engages visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities throughout the Garden, cultivating personal experiences, deepening knowledge, supporting interest-driven learning, building connections with the Garden and its global work, and encouraging sustainable choices and actions. The position also maintains interpretive displays and props and provides visitors with information about directions, venues, attractions, events, classes, and other Garden opportunities. The assistant helps create positive, safe, and educational visitor experiences; develops and maintains interpretive materials and program resources; monitors interpretive facilities; and applies Garden safety guidelines, including administering First Aid/CPR when necessary. Administrative duties include tracking statistics, restocking information materials, supporting volunteers and training, contributing to operational updates, providing tours as needed, and attending recurring meetings. The role also includes seasonal setup and closing activities, support for Garden events, and other duties as assigned. The position is part-time, scheduled for 24 hours per week on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and reports to the Supervisor, Interpretation.

Requirements

One to three years of experience developing, preparing, and delivering educational opportunities to audiences of diverse ages, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds is strongly preferred.
Strong presentation and public-speaking skills and excellent communication, interpersonal, and writing skills.
Experience researching and developing interpretive programs and experiential learning opportunities.
Experience with visitor-centered service and responding helpfully to visitor inquiries and concerns.
Ability to collaborate successfully, treat others respectfully, listen, and seek clarification.
Demonstrated organizational, problem-solving, and process-improvement skills.
Ability to analyze inquiries, determine resolutions, prioritize work, and perform under pressure; strong time-management and planning skills.
Dependability, accuracy, thoroughness, ability to follow instructions, and willingness to receive and apply feedback.
Scheduling flexibility to routinely work weekends, holidays, and some evenings.
Ability to work independently, complete assignments with minimal instruction, learn quickly, take initiative, and follow established routines.
Ability to provide visitor services and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, mission-based public attraction and cultural institution.
Maintain a positive attitude and professional appearance and comply with health and safety guidelines, Garden and departmental policies, and uniform requirements.
Associate degree in education, science education, ecology, environmental science, natural resources, public horticulture, interpretation, recreation, or equivalent; an equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience may be considered.
Completed college-level coursework in interpretation, early childhood education, botany, biology, history, museum studies, or a related subject.
Proficient computer and keyboard skills, including experience with Microsoft Office; solid internet and library research skills.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing.
High-school-level basic math skills, including arithmetic and calculating percentages and decimals.
Ability to exercise independent judgment to apply facts and principles to resolve conflicts in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to obtain and maintain CIG (or equivalent) certification through the National Association for Interpretation.
Ability to obtain and maintain adult and child First Aid/CPR certification.
Ability to use a computer keyboard and touch-screen monitor; lift and carry 20–40 pounds; perform tasks at varying heights, including climbing ladders; and work in varying temperatures and weather conditions.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach for extended periods; standing and engaging visitors is required for 85% or more of the work week.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and engage hands-on with visitors and the Interpretation Team on plant maintenance and artifact care as needed.
Comfort working in close proximity to the public in a safe, friendly, and professional manner.
Wear Garden-provided uniform shirts and jackets and comply with Interpretation Department dress-code requirements.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
One to three years of relevant experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, research, prepare, and deliver informal interpretive programming and experiential learning opportunities throughout the Garden, particularly in the Children’s Garden, Tower Grove House, Brookings Exploration Center, PlantLab, and special exhibit areas.
Create and implement programming on subjects including nature, ecosystems, habitats, plant science, biodiversity, adaptations, native and invasive plants, history, collections, sustainability, outdoor exploration, citizen science, and seasonal events.
Work with the Manager of Interpretation and Interpretation Supervisors to develop interpretive materials, including signage, print and online publications, guided and self-guided tours, sensory-friendly resources, audio and visual materials, and interactive digital media.
Engage visitors, provide information about Garden experiences and opportunities, and create a positive, safe, and appropriate learning environment.
Respond to visitor concerns and complaints, determine appropriate actions and resources, and escalate situations to management when needed.
Create, procure, maintain, store, and organize program supplies; monitor interpretive facilities; conduct safety checks; and submit maintenance requests or report concerns.
Communicate and enforce Garden etiquette and safety guidelines, monitor visitor behavior, administer First Aid/CPR as necessary, and report incidents and concerns to management.
Perform departmental administrative tasks, including tracking statistics, submitting internal requests, restocking visitor information, supporting volunteers, assisting with training or orientation, contributing to operational updates, providing tours as needed, and attending recurring meetings.
Participate in pre-season setup and post-season closing, including moving or cleaning equipment, setting up or removing props, and stocking or removing merchandise.
Assist with other Garden events as requested and meet attendance guidelines.
Follow established policies and procedures, including the Employee Handbook, Garden Safety Guidelines, and department policies.
Promote teamwork and cooperation with coworkers, supervisors, volunteers, visitors, and other Garden employees.
Perform other duties as assigned.