Interpretation and Outreach - Los Angeles

Introduction

This position supports the National Park Service by providing interpretive services to increase visitor enjoyment and appreciation of park programs and the NPS mission.

Major Duties

• Assist with outreach programs scheduled through the LA District
• Assist with LA District’s mobile engagement vehicle "LA Troca" programs when needed.
• Protect park resources by noting and reporting problems or potential problems and safety concerns encountered.
• Communicate with other Park Rangers via a two way radio when problems arise out in the field.
• Assist Interpretive Park Rangers in conducting programming throughout Los Angeles County as well as within the park site.
• Conducts established walks or presentations, which interpret the culture and natural history of the parks.
• Prepares and presents self-designed walks and/or special presentations in accordance with existing NPS guidelines.

Benefits

The volunteer will help the LA District with outreach programs within Downtown Los Angeles and the Greater Los Angeles Area and help connect Los Angeles residents to their closest National Park site. The volunteer’s work contributes to the effective operations of the National Park Service and influences the visitor’s opinions, attitude and enjoyment of the park. The volunteer has a direct effect on individual and group safety, comfort, appreciation of park values, and on protection of park resources. The volunteer will be offered park tours and off site field trips to broaden their knowledge and enhance their volunteer experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Preparing for walks and presentations may be done indoors or outdoors at a variety of locations. Walks or presentations will usually be outdoors. Moderate hiking ability is required. The volunteer may be working in diverse conditions including heat, cold, dust, and wind. Hikes may range from 1 – 2 miles to longer distances up to 10 miles. Volunteers are not permitted to possess firearms in the course of their volunteer duties.

Knowledge and Skills Required

Position requires knowledge of park operations, procedures and practices. Knowledge of park geography, history, facilities, resources and interpretive subject matter is essential. Must understand and be able to utilize themes, goals and objectives in the development and presentation of public programs. Volunteer must be able to work independently in researching and developing programs.

Training Required

Background knowledge of cultural and natural history of the park is essential. The volunteer will be taught about the relationships that the LA District has with local city and state parks. Additional training in development of themes, goals and objectives as well as other pertinent training opportunities will be provided as needed including an emphasis on safety. Volunteer will be made aware of typical natural hazards such as rattlesnakes, yellow jackets, ticks, poison oak and Hantavirus. Volunteer will receive radio training and visitor contact skills.

Time Requirements

The time commitment is a minimum of eight hours a month. Scheduling will be worked out between the volunteer and supervisor.

Supervision

The volunteer will be supervised by an Interpretive Division Ranger.

Evaluation

The designated supervisor will conduct informal performance reviews to ensure that goals are being accomplished and that the job is still rewarding for the volunteer.

Uniform Requirement

The volunteer wears the approved SMMNRA volunteer uniform. The issued uniform shirt and cap should be clean and presentable when worn on duty in times of public contact. A volunteer jacket may be provided during cooler seasons. All other clothing will be provided by the volunteer. Earth tone colors are preferred, but are ultimately decided upon between the volunteer and the supervisor.

For more information contact [e-mail].