Park Interpreter

County of Santa Clara•Santa Clara, CA

About The Position

Under general direction, the Park Interpreter assists with planning, developing, coordinating, and implementing interpretive programs, events, facilities, and services for the Parks and Recreation Department. The role presents educational programs to a variety of audiences, develops interpretive materials, supports interpretive facilities, and works with volunteers and docents. The position may involve public events, fee collection, minor custodial work, and other related duties. Park Interpreters may also be assigned as Disaster Service Workers.

Requirements

Sufficient education, training, and experience to demonstrate the ability to perform the position's tasks.
Either a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or completion of 60 semester or 90 quarter units from an accredited college and two years of experience conducting research and preparing presentations for an organization providing educational, recreational, historical, or cultural information to the public.
Possess a valid California Driver's License upon appointment and qualify for and maintain a County Drivers' Permit.
Possess a Standard First Aid and CPR certificate issued by the American Red Cross before completion of the probationary period.
Knowledge of interpretive exhibit and display planning and design; organizational development, project planning, and coordination; interpretive program development and evaluation; public speaking and presentation; research methods; and computer applications such as word processing, email, and internet use.
Ability to learn park interpretation principles and research methods; plan, prepare, organize, present, and evaluate interpretive program curriculum; and read and interpret information about California's natural and cultural history, especially the southern San Francisco Bay region.
Ability to care for and maintain live specimens, taxidermy specimens, and exhibits.
Ability to train, motivate, and use volunteers and docents to meet service needs.
Ability to read, interpret, and understand laws, ordinances, and regulations relevant to the work.
Ability to operate a computer and standard and specialized software, including desktop publishing and graphic design software for printed materials, presentations, and exhibits, as well as audiovisual equipment used in exhibits and presentations.
Ability to develop and maintain effective, cooperative relationships with volunteers, employees, management, the public, and representatives of other groups and organizations.
Ability to speak and write effectively and clearly.
Work nights, weekends, holidays, and/or other irregular hours.
Conform to Departmental uniform standards for Park Interpreters.
Occasionally lift, carry, push, and pull supplies weighing up to 60 pounds; stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; and stoop, bend, reach, grasp, and manipulate small objects with the hands.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor's degree or significant coursework in Interpretive Studies, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Park Management, History, Communication, Performing Arts, or Education.

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare, market, and present public interpretive programs to a variety of audiences.
Develop and prepare interpretive program curriculum and media, including exhibits, signage, printed materials, and website content.
Assist with recruiting, training, evaluating, and leading volunteers and docents, and work with them on interpretive programs and facilities.
Assist in operating and coordinating interpretive centers and facilities.
Collect and account for fees, as assigned.
Train other park staff in interpretive programs, as related to the role.
Represent the Parks Department at public events, festivals, and fairs.
Represent the Parks Department on community-based committees, partnerships, and projects related to interpretation, recreation, and environmental education, as assigned.
Perform minor custodial duties related to maintaining interpretive centers, facilities, and exhibits.
Assemble and tear down interpretive exhibit booths at events.
Serve as a Disaster Service Worker, as required.
Perform other related duties as assigned.