Position Description Department of Education and Natural Resources Seasonal Interpretive Ranger Early March-end of October position Objective: Seasonal Interpretive Rangers work directly with the Chief Interpretive Ranger in the Department of Education and Natural Resources to inspire visitors of our park through interpretation and to maintain the trail system. An ideal candidate will be self-motivated and have an appreciation for many aspects of nature, as well as some general knowledge of the flora and fauna of Western North Carolina. They must be physically capable of doing trail work and hiking on rugged trails, able to work independently and as part of a team, possess good public speaking and customer service skills, and have the ability to develop programs and implement them. A Seasonal Interpretive Ranger must also be able to use tools and equipment for maintaining trails, carrying heavy equipment on uneven terrain, and assisting in regular upkeep of the trail system. The candidate must be able to work weekends and holidays, during emergencies, work closely with other employees, volunteers, general public and North Carolina State Park staff, and be able to adapt to fulfill whatever role is needed in the park. Major Duties: Serves as a frontline representative of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Maintaining the Grandfather Mountain trail system through regular maintenance and education Providing non-formal interpretation and extraordinary customer service to guests in all capacities of the park Performing interpretive and environmental education programs when needed Responding to emergency calls and taking appropriate action following established guidelines and procedures Patrolling park trails to answer questions and ensure visitors are acting in a safe manner Educating visitors of resource management practices to ensure the health of our endangered species on Grandfather Mountain Assists in natural resource management practices May serve as a parking attendant and assist in trash pickup in various capacities Other duties will be assigned as necessary Qualifications: Working toward/have degree in recreation management, biology, environmental studies, history, or a related field First Aid/CPR certification, or willingness to get certified Public speaking ability and good communications skills Ability to take initiative and work individually or as part of a team Physically capable of doing trail work and hiking rugged terrain Reliable transportation (occasionally we use personal vehicles to get around the park)
Position Description Department of Education and Natural Resources Qualifications, continued. Hiking and/or trail maintenance experience or willingness to learn Experience developing and implementing interpretive/education programs or the ability to learn Experience or ability to learn how to properly lead guided hikes Capable of learning local flora and fauna Must have good hiking boots and gear for the outdoors (we will provide uniforms, including rain gear) Seasonal Responsibilities: 50% - Trail management 35% - Informal Interpretation (roving trails, talking with visitors at Linville Peak and the Interpretive Table) and Formal Interpretation (presenting established programs to visitors) 10% - Conservation (scientific surveys, research activities) and resource management 5% Emergency Response/Trainings/Research Applications and resumes can be sent to Chief Interpretive Ranger John Caveny at jcaveny@grandfather.com or Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Attn: John Caveny, Chief Interpretive Ranger P.O. Box 129 Linville, NC 28646 Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Department of Education and Natural Resources
Seasonal Interpretive Ranger Application Insert Knowledge, Skills & Abilities For the following skills, rate yourself on the scale: 1 - No experience 2 - Beginning level of experience 3 - Average level of experience 4 - Advanced level of experience 5 - Extensive level of experience Advanced medical experience {ER, OR, Ambulance, etc.} Search & Rescue experience/training Wilderness Survival experience/training Military experience Boy/Girl Scouts of America experience Recreational Outdoor experience {hiking, camping, rafting, skiing, etc.} General Biology Field Biology Specific experience: Knowledge of Appalachian flora & fauna Experience with communications equipment {CB, 2-way radios, etc.} Minor auto repair knowledge {tire change, jump start, etc.} Use and upkeep of a chainsaw Experience with power and hand tools Carpentry, mechanical or masonry experience Hiking & trail maintenance experience Handling money in the workplace Experience working with the public {guest relations, irate customers, service desk, etc.} Basic First Aid and CPR certification Yes No Expiration dates: Additional Certifications {fire, rescue, medical} & expiration dates: