Interpretive Ranger

Parklands of Floyds Fork Seasonal Interpretive Ranger

DEFINITION:

Under supervision from the Director of Education and Programming and the Education Coordinator, Interpretive Rangers provide direct support for Parklands Outdoor Classroom education programming. Interpretive Rangers research, develop, and lead nature and science-based programs such as school field trips, youth outdoor camps, adult hikes, and family programs. Programs are led both in our classrooms as well as on our trails, bike paths, and creek. This position will frequently hike in the park as well as bike and canoe as necessary. This position also provides visitor service support in the parks and at the PNC Achievement Center. This position works independently and as a team within the education department and ensures that visitors of all ages have an interesting, informative, and enjoyable experience while in the Parklands.

The incumbent will lead high-quality outdoor educational and recreational experiences for participants that focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and nature-based education, as well as The Parklands core values of safe, fun, clean, and beautiful. The position works early mornings and some weekends/holidays. This is an hourly, seasonal position of 40 hours per week that begins in mid-March 2023 and ends Mid-November 2023. Extensions are possible based on programming need.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

The Interpretive Ranger position is distinguished from other positions in that it provides the full front-line customer service interface for The Parklands of Floyds Fork. Interpretive Rangers are friendly, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. As a primary visitor contact, the Interpretive Ranger works to increase the public’s understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the significant and special places in the Park. Rangers will conduct a variety of interpretive programs including, but not limited to, school field trip classes, park tours, interpretive hikes, birthday parties, family programs, and guided walks to a wide variety of audiences. Rangers also assist in maintaining the educational garden beds around the PNC Center Achievement Center as well as reptile (turtles) wildlife enclosures.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:

• Create & deliver education content for registered programs (field trips, camps, scout programs, adult hikes, and family events)
• Lead interpretive hikes, guided walks and cultural history tours for a variety of ages
• Answer phone calls, provide Parklands information, assist park visitors
• Perform basic building maintenance and cleaning tasks
• Assist in planting, weeding, harvesting, and general care of the education garden
• Undertake all necessary training including Child Protection Training and CPR First Aid
• Greet & welcome visitors, provide information about Parklands amenities
• Other duties as assigned

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent public interaction skills; must have a pleasant, welcoming, enthusiastic attitude
• Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, teaching, ecology, or environmental sciences strongly preferred
• Ability to learn and disseminate information to a variety of audiences, and to make learning both engaging and fun
• Ability to work well with team members and volunteers
• Positive attitude
• Basic knowledge of Kentucky flora & fauna and an understanding of Kentucky cultural history
• Basic understanding of STEAM subject areas, and Next Generation Science Standards
• Previous teaching experience, or experience in interpretation or leading tours, highly desirable

Additional Requirements:

• Must pass a criminal background check
• Work independently in varied weather conditions including rain, cold, and heat
• Individuals must be physically capable of operating vehicles safely, possess a valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds and move easily in an outdoor setting with regular work in outdoor conditions without environmental controls
• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending on work location, assignment or shift
• Ability to satisfactorily complete First Aid/CPR training
• Ability to complete youth protection training
• Ability to adhere to a Uniform Policy

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

Applicants must be 18 to apply. Passion for the outdoors and ability to communicate effectively required. Bachelor’s degree with coursework in parks ands recreation, natural sciences, teaching, or cultural history preferred. Years of experience or a deep understanding of Kentucky’s natural history may supplement educational requirements.

BENEFITS:

This is an hourly, seasonal position of 40 hours per week that begins March 20, 2023 and ends Mid-November 2022. Extension of the position is possible based on programming need.

LOCATION:

This position is based out of Beckley Creek Park at the PNC Achievement Center, 20 minutes east of downtown Louisville near Middletown. Duties require daily work outdoors and potentially in other park facilities within The Parklands system.

APPLY:

To apply, email your resume, cover letter, and three references to Director of Education and Programming Curtis Carman at ccarman@theparklands.org. You may also mail resume and cover letter to Seasonal Interpretive Ranger Search, The Parklands of Floyds Fork, 471 West Main Street, Suite 202, Louisville, KY 40202. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

ABOUT THE PARKLANDS: The Parklands of Floyds Fork is a systemic, world-class addition to Louisville’s park system that includes four major parks linked by a park drive, a first-rate urban trail system, and a remarkable water trail, all tracing Floyds Fork, a classic Kentucky stream. Ongoing maintenance and operations are funded solely through private donations, earned income and an endowment fund. This public/private project is a unique and truly city-shaping model. This is the largest fully funded non-profit park system in the nation. Learn more at www.theparklands.org.