[OR_Archaeology] Cultural & Ecological Interpreter summer job with Americorps & State Parks!

[Susan White]

Oregon Parks and Rec had their Americorps candidate drop out at the last
minute, so they have a very short application period. Please pass on to
anyone you think might be interested. Thanks!!
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Cultural and Ecological Interpreter (AmeriCorps)- at Sumpter Valley
Dredge State Heritage Area!
Northwest Service Academy - LINKS Program - 3 month position (450
hours) 
Position Starts June 11, 2010 
Application Deadline is May 31, 2010

A general summary of the job duties are listed below.  For more
detailed information and a full job description, see the Oregon State
Park's Jobs page on our website at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/JOBS/jobs.shtml  Just scroll down to the
Internships section.

Position Summary:  The Cultural and Ecological Interpreter will
participate in producing interpretive programs and projects as they
relate to the park’s interpretive features, and further the
implementation of the Sumpter Valley Dredge Interpretive Plan.  These
projects may include but may not be limited to; developing interpretive
programs for school age children, developing living history programs,
building descriptive props, natural or environmental programs as they
relate to the dredge tailings, and expand on current Dredge tours and
mining demonstrations.  The position offers an opportunity to increase
your knowledge of eastern Oregon’s flora and fauna, and to expand your
presentation skills while engaging the public in learning more
themselves.  

Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area has a very diverse range of
visitor interests. The programs and projects completed by the LINKS
AmeriCorps member will help provide more learning options and meet a
wider range of visitor expectations and interests, while influencing how
they view the natural world and cultural history of the region. 

General Responsibilities (to include, but not limited to): 
1.  Develop interpretive programs or presentations to be used by
current and future staff and volunteers. These may include but not
limited to: guided nature walks, living history and/or environmental
impact programs, JR Ranger related programs, and Interpretive Plan
projects.
2.  Work with other park staff to present interpretive programs and
activities to the public.  These programs may include but not limited
to: living history, demonstrations, guided walks, tours, roving, youth
related programs, etc.
3.  Assist park staff in implementing Phase I action items in the
Sumpter Valley Dredge Interpretive Plan.
4.  Work with park staff to restore and preserve park property as
needed through invasive plant management, fire preventative trail
maintenance, and stream restoration project monitoring/maintenance.
5.  Participate in staff planning and breakout sessions, safety
meetings, etc.
6.  Record program attendance, maintain and update files and compile
other statistical data.
7.  Complete and submit all necessary LINKS AmeriCorps Program
paperwork and reports in a timely manner. 
8.  Attend and complete LINKS AmeriCorps Program orientation and
enrollment session. 
9.  Wear an appropriate LINKS identifier and required safety gear while
performing service or attending official events.

Requirements:
1.  Good customer service skills - ability to work with people of all
ages and walks of life. 
2.  Good people skills - desire to work in a team setting, good
communication skills 
3.  Self motivation to take on projects and work independently if
needed.
4.  An interest in history, nature and the desire and ability to share
that with others.
5.  Computer skills - experience with Microsoft Office programs and
photo editing software.
6.  Adaptability and flexibility
7.  Creativity to develop and present quality interpretive
programming.
8.  May travel overnight to other parks, headquarters or other agency
facilities for training and meetings. 
9.  Because the park facilities are spread out and the park features
about 2 miles of trails, it is important that applicants be capable of
walking for extended periods of time over uneven surfaces and varying
grades.
10.  Temperatures may remain above 90 to 100 degrees and may cause
issues with individuals that have a severe sensitivity to sunlight or
heat. 
11.  The park is at an elevation of about 4600’ and may cause issues
if an individual has severe asthma or breathing difficulties.
12.  LINKS members must be at least 17 years of age at the time of
enrollment in the program. 
13.  U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
14.  Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, or commit to
earning one prior to receiving an education award.
15.  Ability to commit to the full term of service for which they are
applying.
16.  Submit to a criminal history background check and National Sex
Offender Registry search.
17.  Regular and reliable attendance.
	
Preferred Qualifications:
1.  Prior education and/or experience with interpretive program
development 
2.  Prior education or interpretive background in environmental or
historical interpretation, graphic design, art, theater, childhood
education, geology, plant and/or animals, gold mining, and 19th or early
20th century engineering.

For more information, contact Clyde Holliday Management Unit Park
Manager Dennis Bradley at 541-932-4453 or Jill Nishball, Statewide
Volunteer Coordinator at 503-986-0752.