Interpretive & Education Technician

TO APPLY

Complete an online application: portlandgeneral.com/careers, “Park Attendant.” Search for PGE jobs with “park,” and apply for the general “Park Attendant” position. See the “I&E” responsibilities.

Essential Job Responsibilities: 

• Prepare and present park-themed interpretive programs and family-friendly, hands-on educational opportunities. (40%)
• Support various parks by organizing special events and providing self-guided educational opportunities. (15%)
• Provide visitor services such as explaining rules, answering questions, and providing information about the parks and surrounding areas. (15%)
• Initiate outreach to agencies and organizations to schedule guest speakers for evening programs, providing support or materials as needed. (5%)
• Develop and distribute marketing for park educational opportunities; contribute interpretive and informational content for social media, website and/or newsletters. (5%)
• Complete other tasks as assigned—may include assisting with park operations, administrative support, data collection and/or minor maintenance tasks. (20%)

Communications: 

• Ability to communicate and coordinate activities with immediate supervisor, team members, volunteers and resource specialists.
• Ability to craft and present engaging, thematic educational programs that help connect visitors to the parks’ natural, cultural and recreational resources.
• Ability to communicate park rules and regulations to park visitors.

Challenges: 

• Effectively collaborate and maintain good working relationships with outside partnering agencies and organizations.
• Effectively navigate and facilitate conversations and constructively articulate perspectives involving controversial issues in a public setting.
• Effectively remain organized traveling to various park sites on a weekly basis—consistently managing time, resources and communications.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience Required:

• Excellent customer service skills and the ability to speak well with groups of varying ages and backgrounds.
• Coursework in the natural sciences, history, education, interpretation or related fields.
• Enthusiasm and passion for sharing knowledge with others.
• Knowledge and experience in using computers and related applications / technologies.
• Valid driver’s license and demonstration of good driving habits.

Education and Experience:

• Qualified candidates should have knowledge and experience in park interpretation, educational programming, event planning, marketing and communications, visitor services and other administrative duties. 
• Knowledge of Oregon natural, cultural and recreational resources and/or hydropower desirable. 

Physical/Mental Abilities and Processes: 

• Self-starter; ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
• Ability to stand or hike for long periods of time and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to think and respond quickly, accurately and thoughtfully when faced with unexpected questions and unanticipated situations. 
• Must be able to adapt to changes in work schedule and reporting location as well as be able to work evenings, weekends and holidays.