Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000pnH2
ADDRESS: 33100 Tamiami Trail East Ochopee, Florida, 34141
DATES: 11/1/2024 – 4/30/2025
DEPT: National Park Service
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Program Overview: Visitors from all over the world travel to Big Cypress National Preserve to see if they can catch a glimpse of an endangered Florida Panther, spot a flock of roseate spoonbills, and watch alligators in the wild. They walk along our boardwalks, viewing animals unlike anything they’ve seen before, and immerse themselves in the wonder of cypress domes. They come to canoe the water ways, hike in the back country, take an off-road vehicle ride, seek stunning vistas, and stop at the visitor centers to learn more about the swamp, pinelands, prairies, and cypress domes, history, and the many uses of the Preserve’s 729,000 acres.
Volunteers will be issued uniform shirts, a jacket, and a hat but must supply their own khaki or dark brown pants, socks, and closed-toed shoes. An extensive training will be provided to new volunteers and staff. It is imperative that volunteers are present for training to increase knowledge and build team-cohesion.
In exchange for 32 hours of work each week (4, 8-hour days) Volunteers will be given a concrete or gravel RV pad with full-hookups. These volunteers will live behind our Oasis Visitor Center.
Major Duties:
Ø Provide information to visitors in the visitor’s centers, and on boardwalks
Ø Give trip-planning advice, and act as an overall guide for the visitor’s trip
Ø Answer phones, and take down reservations for ranger-led tours
Ø Act as a ‘sweep’ on swamp walks, boardwalk talks and canoe/kayak programs (Volunteers should expect to spend more time in the visitor center than out in the field.)
Ø Maintain consistent communication with volunteer supervisor. Reports vandalism and safety hazards, as well as repairs needed to facilities.
Ø Assist in performing bookstore operations (stocking shelves, ringing out customers, etc.)
Ø Other duties as necessary (with training)
If you enjoy having perfect weather during the coldest six (6) months out of the year, this may be the job for you!
Volunteers that can commit to the whole season (November-April) will be given priority over other applicants.