Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000j8QvAAI/visitor-services-volunteerjames-river-visitor-center
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ADDRESS: Blue Ridge Parkway; Milepost 384; Asheville, North Carolina 28803
DEPT: National Park Service
DATES: 5/8/2023 – 10/31/2023
DESCRIPTION:
Join the Interpretation and Education Team of the Blue Ridge Parkway as we welcome and assist park visitors from around the country (and the world!) as they enjoy “America’s Favorite Drive!” This position is based at the James River Visitor Center near Big Island, VA. Housing (an RV Site or a room in shared housing) may be an option for those willing to volunteer 32 hours a week during the exciting summer season (May through October) of 2023.
Each year, over 14 million visitors come to the Blue Ridge Parkway to experience “America’s Favorite Drive,” and all the opportunities for enjoyment, education, and recreation that it provides.
The Interpretation and Education Division of the Parkway inspires appreciation and stewardship of park resources by helping those visitors have positive, meaningful experiences in the park. To best assist visitors, the Interpretation Team staffs Visitor Centers throughout the Parkway that serve as reliable sources of information and education.
Applicants selected for these Volunteer Positions will serve as members of the Interpretation and Education Team and work to meet park goals by providing information, orientation, and quality customer service at the James River Visitor Center.
James Visitor Center is located at MP 63, near the town of Big Island in Amherst County, VA. The site focuses on the natural resources of Appalachia as well as the transportation history of the region.
This position is open to volunteers who can commit to work 32 hours a week during the summer season (May through October) in exchange for housing provided by the park (either an RV spot with utilities paid or a room in shared park housing).
DUTIES
The volunteer in this role assists park staff and serves park visitors through completing the following duties regularly:
· Actively participate in a safe workplace culture
· Independently operate the James River Visitor Center
· Provide park and general information to the public while staffing the visitor center information desk
· Perform tasks needed to open and/or close the visitor center
· Greet and welcome all visitors to the building and be aware, receptive and responsive to visitor needs
· Answer numerous and repetitive questions about the park in a professional manner
· Provide accurate park information and directions, in person and over the phone, to facilitate a safe and informed visit
· Handle negative contacts and sensitive topics in a professional manner
· Distribute maps, brochures, and other printed materials
· Monitor and keep informational brochures stocked and available
· Track visitation statistics using park guidelines
· Facilitate a positive learning experience for youth (and the young at heart!) through the Junior Ranger Program
· Educate visitors on the regulations of the park and any safety concerns
· Recognize and report all safety concerns to volunteer supervisor
· Notify volunteer supervisor of changes in scheduling availability as early as possible
Other DUTIES
The following duties may also be performed:
· May staff a temporary information desk outside of the Visitor Center during periods of high visitation
· May rove outdoor areas (such as the Canal Walk and Trail of Trees) to provide informal information, orientation, and/or interpretation to visitors
· May staff outdoor Junior Ranger or educational activity tables
· May occasionally be asked to conduct an informal interpretative talk, hike, or cultural demonstration
· May assist with preparations for programs or special events which include repair/maintenance of items used in event or arrangement/movement of furniture and displays
· May perform a variety of administrative tasks (ex. Filing, opening boxes and paper bundles, stuffing envelopes, photocopying, reviewing text, hanging posters, etc.)
· May be asked to clean outdoor wayside signs, indoor exhibits, or information desk
· May be requested to assist in emergency medical responses (within scope of training)
QUALIFICATIONS
· Enjoys working with the public
· Responsible, reliable, and able to work independently with little to no supervision
· Excellent customer service skills
· Excellent communication skills
· Welcoming, friendly, and professional demeanor
· Comfortable working with small and large groups
· Ability to effectively deal with stressful situations
· Works well independently and as part of a team
· Ability to tactfully handle discussion of controversial subjects
· Ability to maintain a positive attitude and consistently be courteous and polite to visitors
· Interest in history, education, or the environment
· Able and willing to learn about the history of the Blue Ridge Parkway
· Ability to follow directions (written or spoken) and ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding of expectations
· Willingness to follow federal guidelines for safe practices in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Conservation Education
- Drivers License
- General Assistance
- Public Speaking
- Visitor Information
Work is performed mainly in a climate-controlled building; other duties may also involve working in an outdoor environment. Work performed will involve prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Outdoor tasks will be performed during varying temperatures and weather conditions. No outdoor work will be performed in the presence of thunder or lightning.
- General housekeeping
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Ergonomic problems
- Working with the Public, Wildlife Interactions
- Yes