Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Los Altos, CA, USA
Sep 11, 2019
Full time
About the Position:
The Interpretative Specialist will have a solid foundation in the principles and techniques of interpretation methods and be able to plan, coordinate, deliver, and direct engaging and effective interpretive programming and projects. The position serves as the technical lead, trainer/mentor, and day-to-day contact for the District’s Outdoor Activity Docents (volunteer naturalists) and supports their delivery of interpretive activities on District’s preserves. The Interpretive Specialist will also work in a collaborative role with other program staff to support cross-discipline (environmental education and natural resource management) engagement of adults and youth in natural and cultural history experiences and will assist program manager in identification of interpretive partnership opportunities for program growth.
The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge and subject matter expertise in the application of interpretation theory and professional competencies including though not limited to: thematic interpretive activity development and delivery, interpretive writing, interpretive training and coaching, interpretive media, interpretive plans and projects, and visitor or participant assessment techniques. A background in California ecology and conservation principles, competency in inquiry-based instruction and training of adult learners, and experience in docent supervision/volunteer management is expected. An independent organized work-style and strong communication skills are needed in this people-focused, and subject matter rich position.
For additional information about the Interpretive Specialist position, see the Job Description page of the District website.
Required Education & Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in interpretation, physical or natural sciences, environmental or conservation studies, or a related field; and two (2) years of relevant experience working in a setting or program area that provides interpretive services to the general public (adults and children) or specialized audiences, preferably in an outdoor location - park, recreation area, or open space environment.
Bilingual skills, certification as an Interpretive Guide (CIG) or other certification through the National Association for Interpretation, and/or UC California Naturalist certification are highly desirable.
Licenses & Certifications Required:
Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, Basic First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification within six (6) months of employment.
HOW TO APPLY: Applications accepted until 5:00 p.m. October 6, 2019 - Apply online via CalOpps.org .
The following four application items are REQUIRED in order to be considered for the position : (1) Employment application (2) Resume (3) Letter of interest in the position and (4) Supplemental question responses . Incomplete applications will not be considered for the position. Applicants with the most ideal experience and qualifications will be contacted for interviews.
Recruitment Timeline:
Interviews: October 18, 2019; Final Interviews & skills exercise: October 25, 2019; Estimated Start Date: November 2019. Please check your calendar and plan accordingly as these dates are firm.
