Volunteer
Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000001407D
ADDRESS:
1670 Blue Ridge Parkway
Floyd, Virginia 24091
DATES: 9/23/2024 – 10/31/2024
DEPT: National Park Service
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Visitor Services Volunteer – Rocky Knob Visitor Center
Hosting over 16 million annual visitors, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most visited units of the National Park Service. Each year staff, volunteers and partners assist thousands of visitors as they plan their visit to the parkway. Volunteers in this uniformed position are expected to provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere and the highest level of customer service. The volunteer assists visitors by providing accurate park information in person and over the phone in support of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
DUTIES INCLUDE:
Staffing Rocky Knob Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center near Floyd, VA, including professionally
representing the National Park Service and providing high quality customer service.
The volunteer in this role assists park staff and serves park visitors through completing the following duties regularly:
• Open, close and staff the Visitor Information desk at Rocky Knob in the Plateau District of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Provide orientation, information, and informal interpretation to visitors.
• Distribute maps and brochures as requested.
• Operates America’s National Park store including running the cash register and selling
merchandise using Point of Sale system; accurately collecting and accounting for monies.
• Inform visitors of potential safety hazards.
• Check for sufficient brochure stock and replenish as needed.
• Take inventory of supplies and inform supervisor when stock is low.
• Lift and carry brochure boxes weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Change the date on the passport stamp.
• Record visitor statistics on the monthly visitation form.
• Volunteer will record their own hours each time they work.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to display a positive attitude and professional demeanor.
• Willingness to wear a NPS VIP uniform.
• Knowledge of NPS regulations desired.
• Ability to determine visitor needs and answer questions.
• Ability to remain courteous and calm in hectic circumstances.
• Ability to interact respectfully and effectively with a great diversity of people
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to practice safety in all aspects of the job.
• Ability to work independently with little or no direct supervision.
• Ability to pass a Federal Background Check.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays.
• May be required to wear a mask indoors.
SKILLS
• Clerical/Office Machines
• General Assistance
• Public Speaking
• Visitor Information
• Working with People
• Light housekeeping (sweeping, dusting, etc.)
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Milepost 169 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Floyd, Virginia. Work is performed in a small contact
station. Work is primarily performed standing or sitting position but requires walking, bending, and
carrying light objects.
Lodging
• Full hookup for RV (50 amp, water, sewer) VIP sites only.
• Campground is at 3100’.
• Cell service is spotty on the Parkway.