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PARKS, HERITAGE,&TOURISM INTERPRETER II

Date: Jul 28, 2025

Req ID: 51521

Location:

Statewide, AR, US, 72756

Category: DEPT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

Anticipated Starting Salary: $15.33 hourly

Seasonal Park Interpreters

Req: 51521

Salary: $15.33 hourly

Grade: SGS04

Closing date: Until Filled

This position helps park visitors have memorable experiences in state parks and form meaningful connections to the beauty and history of Arkansas through outdoor recreation. The position will research, promote, and present formal and informal outdoor programs that may include guided hikes, amphitheater talks, kayak and boat tours, resource-focused recreational activities, outdoor historic site tours, curriculum-based school programs, and programs for local communities. The position also assists with park operations duties as assigned, to include answering phones, camper registration, retail sales, answering visitor questions, and assisting with housekeeping and maintenance. Specific tasks and interpretive program topics vary by site.

Positions will be filled at various locations around the state (specific locations listed below). Positions range in duration from 3 to 9 months. Positions begin March, April, or May and last through summer or fall depending on duration. Actual work schedules vary by park and season. All positions are considered extra-help (part-time), but employees can expect a 35–40-hour work week during peak visitation season (peak varies by location). Housing is provided at some parks but is not guaranteed.

Valid driver’s license required. Must pass driving record and criminal background check. Must have physical condition sufficient to work outdoors on uneven terrain, and sometimes under strenuous conditions. Must be able to work a non-standard schedule, including weekends, holidays, and some evenings. A mandatory, 4-day, paid interpretation skills training class is provided.

Minimum Qualifications: the formal education of a high school diploma; plus two years of experience in public relations, customer service, or related area. Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

Preferred qualifications or relevant work or volunteer experience, documented experience in public speaking and writing, coursework in interpretive methods, and a working knowledge of Arkansas natural/cultural history. At parks with lakes and rivers, experience and strong skills in swimming, boating, and kayaking are preferred.

Virtual, online interviews with qualified, selected applicants will be held.

At this time, we expect to have multiple positions available at various locations statewide, tentative list below (subject to change as positions are filled). Note: some parks may rehire eligible, returning employees from the previous season. Contact our Personnel office, Program Services office, or specific park Superintendents if you have questions about the availability of parks’ positions, season dates, and housing. You can specify your location preferences on the application and during the interview process if selected to interview.

Current positions:

• Hobbs, (Rogers, AR - northwest Ark.): 9 months | no housing available

* Delta Heritage Trail, (West Helena, AR – eastern Ark.): 6 months | housing available

* Lake Charles, (Powhatan, AR - northeast Ark.): 6 months | housing available

* Queen Wilhelmina, (Mena, AR – western Ark.): 6 months | housing available

* Lake Ouachita, (Mountain Pine, AR – western Ark.): 9 months | housing available

We are an EOE/AA/ADA employer. Employees (Internal) https://www.transform.ar.gov/personnel/arcareers/ Non-State Employee Applicants (External)https://arcareers.arkansas.gov/

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

Position Information

Job Series:Parks – Career Path

Classification:Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Interpreter II

Class Code:RPA23P

Pay Grade:SGS05

Salary Range:$47,397- $70,148

Job Summary

The Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Interpreter II is responsible for developing and conducting engaging interpretive programs that educate and inspire visitors about Arkansas’s natural, cultural, and historical resources. This position plays a key role in public outreach, program development, and resource preservation, working within state parks, historic sites, and other heritage locations.

Primary Responsibilities

Design and present educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits focused on Arkansas’s natural and cultural heritage. Engage visitors of all ages through storytelling, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Conduct special events, living history programs, and nature walks to enhance visitor experiences. Provide exceptional customer service by answering visitor inquiries and offering recommendations. Collaborate with educators and community organizations to promote heritage tourism and outdoor education. Assist in historical and environmental research to ensure program accuracy and authenticity. Work with conservation staff to promote and protect natural and cultural resources. Participate in historical reenactments, artifact preservation, and environmental stewardship projects. Maintain interpretive tools, props, and presentation materials. Keep records of program attendance, visitor feedback, and outreach efforts.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills for engaging diverse audiences. Ability to translate complex historical or environmental topics into engaging and accessible content. Knowledge of interpretive methods, heritage tourism, and environmental education principles. Ability to develop and deliver age-appropriate educational programs. Creativity in program design, storytelling, and interactive learning techniques. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle guest inquiries and concerns. Experience working with diverse audiences, including children, families, and school groups. Strong attention to detail and ability to conduct historical, cultural, or ecological research. Time management skills to balance programming, administrative tasks, and visitor interactions.

Minimum Qualifications

At least two years of experience in interpretive programming, environmental education, museums, education, or a related field.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market:Fayetteville