(Part-Time) Interpreter - Farm Center

Huron-Clinton Metroparks • Milford, MI

4d • $16 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

The year-round, part-time Interpreter presents interpretive programs for school groups, families, community groups, and the public, sharing the natural and cultural history of Southeast Michigan at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. The role involves planning, preparing, and presenting talks and demonstrations, encouraging public appreciation of natural, historical, and cultural resources, and performing professional and technical duties related to interpretive programs and the operation of nature centers, farms, and museums. Depending on level, duties also include assisting with program development, creating reports and paperwork, marketing programs, serving on committees, and accepting designated leadership responsibilities.

The Interpreter works under the general direction of the District Interpretive Services Supervisor or Farm Center Interpretive Supervisor, exercising some judgment and discretion while working independently. The position may be assigned to other parks or districts as needed. Work is generally indoors, with occasional outdoor work in heat, rain, and snow. The schedule may include any day of the week, weekends, holidays, and morning or afternoon shifts, and may be adjusted for organizational needs and special events.

Requirements

• Associate degree in nature interpretation, environmental education, biology, natural resources management, or a related field for Levels P3 and P4; applicants with at least four years of related service may receive credit toward the minimum educational requirements. A bachelor’s degree is preferred for P3 and P4.
• Bachelor’s degree in nature interpretation, environmental education, biology, natural resources management, or a related field for Level P5; applicants with at least eight years of related service may receive credit toward the minimum educational requirements.
• Experience in interpretation, education, or a related field is preferred.
• Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification, or the ability to obtain it within one year of hire and maintain it thereafter, for Levels P3 and P4; CIG certification is required for Level P5.
• For Level P5, two years of Huron-Clinton Metroparks Interpretive Services experience in interpretation with demonstrated progressive responsibilities.
• Ability to learn the principles and practices for developing and carrying out a diversified interpretive program; Level P4 and P5 also require knowledge of these principles and practices.
• Ability to design science education programs supporting the NGSS and Michigan Science Standards; Level P4 and P5 also require knowledge of and ability to design such programs.
• Ability to promote and maintain cooperative working relationships with educational groups, park visitors, and employees.
• Creativity and ability to implement new initiatives.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate verbally to give tours and lead programs and presentations.
• Ability to use carpenter, gardening, farming, and artistic tools.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions and traverse sandy, marshy, and wooded areas with even or uneven terrain.
• Maintain a valid Michigan driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to perform the essential duties and adjust schedule as needed, including for special events, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• For Level P5, willingness and ability to accept a leadership role in designated situations.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree for Levels P3 and P4.
• Experience in interpretation, education, or a related field.
• Project Learning Tree, Project WET, or other certifications (Level P5).

Responsibilities

• Develop, conduct, and enhance interpretive presentations for students, families, summer camps, and the general public; at Level P3, assist with their development and delivery.
• Promote public interest and participation in interpretive programs through tasks, illustrated lectures, and dissemination of pertinent publicity.
• Register groups and individuals for programs, create invoices, prepare and send correspondence, and arrange school and group visit logistics.
• Greet visitors, answer questions and phone calls, and provide general information about park activities and facilities.
• Maintain indoor facilities and outdoor spaces, including captive animal and trail maintenance, as needed.
• Create and maintain necessary reports and paperwork (Levels P4 and P5).
• Assist with special events as needed.
• At Level P5, accept increasing responsibility, market programs as needed, and potentially serve on committees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree