Interpretation and Visitor Services, Ridgeland. MS

Description of Work:

Works closely with Natchez Trace Parkway staff and Eastern National Association personnel to accomplish the mission of informing and educating the public about the Park.

Greets park visitors in a friendly and professional manner. Orients visitors to Park themes, activities and facilities.

Provides accurate visitor information concerning the natural and cultural history of the Park, recreational and educational opportunities, area attractions, highway directions, and location of area accommodations. Ensures that an adequate supply of free informational literature is available for distribution.

Assists in operating park’s Eastern National Outlet in daily sales operations, including handling cash and securing it for accountability purposes, restocking sales items, and maintaining a neat and tidy sales/information area.

Answer incoming phone calls.  Operate audio-visual equipment.

If trained to do so, may provide education programming to park visitors or groups.

Assist, within your level of training, victims of injury or illness until the arrival of emergency medical personnel.

Visitor Center volunteers will wear the proper and complete volunteer uniform while performing their duties.

Report signs of facility damage, maintenance needs, criminal activity, etc. to their supervisor. Maintenance needs will written up and submitted to their supervisor by email, fax or mail.

Will keep a log of their hours and submit it monthly to the Volunteer Coordinator by email, fax or mail. The form will be due by the 5th of the following month (ex July 5th for the month of June).

Working Condition

Work will mainly be completed indoors. Some work may be outside under a variety of conditions: hot, cold, windy, humid, and rainy.

Items provided for Volunteers

Volunteer shirt. Volunteer name tag. Volunteer hat. Jacket (depending on weather and location).

Items provided by Volunteers

A positive attitude and a willingness to share Parkway history and information with visitors. Black or khaki pants or skirt to wear with uniform shirt.

Skills Required

Ability to get along with people. Ability to remain calm and friendly when confronted by visitors. Ability to adapt to changing work conditions. Ability to work independently (when required). Skill in oral communication. Ability to acquire knowledge of the natural and cultural history of Natchez Trace Parkway and its significance. Must be willing to commit to an agreed upon work schedule.

Time Commitment

The minimum commitment is 3 hours a month, in blocks of not less than three (3) hours. Volunteer hours and times must be prescheduled with your supervisor.

We are currently recruiting for 2020 and beyond for full-time RV volunteers. Local volunteers, or others who do not require a full hook-up RV site are wlecome to apply anytime.

Supervision and Training

Supervised by the Volunteer Coordinator or District Interpretive Ranger or their designee. Training will be provided in Visitor Center/Contact Station protocols, operation of cash register, opening and closing of the Visitor Center/Contact Station, Park history, Natchez Trace Parkway goals and themes. The Park film, written materials, and ranger led programs are available to gain more knowledge of the Park and its history. Supervisor will complete midseason and end of season evaluation of work.

Note

Visitor Center/Contact Station volunteers must successfully pass a background check to be selected for this position.