Volunteer
Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000TYi3AAG/seasonal-interpretive-volunteer
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ADDRESS: Bryce Canyon National Park; Highway 63; Bryce, Utah 84764
DEPT: National Park Service
DATES: 11/8/2020 – 2/27/2021
DESCRIPTION:
Bryce Canyon National Park is seeking interpretive volunteers. Help visitors connect to the park through interpretive programing and visitor information stations.
By joining our team here at Bryce Canyon National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to live in a place that some only dream of visiting. Bryce Canyon is known for our hoodoos (irregular columns of rock), which exist here in vibrant abundance! The park also offers amazing wildlife viewing, endless hiking opportunities, stunning night skies, additionally cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter. This is a chance to reconnect with nature and find solitude not possible in urban settings. Explore the park more at: www.nps.gov/brca
Staff and visitors alike are regularly taken aback by the astounding landscape that is Bryce Canyon. Often those who see this incredible landscape comeback with countless photographs and the fond memory of sharing the breath-taking scenery with others.
While Bryce Canyon is an unparalleled place to live and work, it does have its own set of challenges. We welcome almost three million visitors annually; concentrated in our summer season between the main Bryce Amphitheater and our 18-mile scenic drive. During our high visitation guests might have challenges finding parking, navigating the trails or finding a campsite. This is where we can play an integral role in setting them up to have a positive memorable experience. Empathy, problem-solving, and creative thinking are some of the skills you will use during your workday.
What Does an Interpretive Volunteer Do?
Visitor Center
Visitor Center Interpretation duties will consist of orientating guests to the park, providing information on park activities and encouraging guests to recreate in a safe and environmentally conscious way.
Specific tasks may include but are not limited to answering questions, sharing safety messaging, providing directions, recommending hiking trails, interacting with Junior Rangers, processing lost and found items, operating a 2-way radio, answering phone inquiries and voicemails, and other duties as necessary.
Interpretive Programs (Geology and Astronomy Focus)
Interpretive Volunteers will have the opportunity to develop and present interpretive programs. These could include but do not have to be limited to 20-minute talks on the geology, astronomy, 60-minute evening programs (summer only) and 90-minute guided walks or snowshoe hikes focused on a topic of your choice related to the park. We also offer telescope viewing, and full moon hike both of which you can play a role in or lead. We welcome ideas for Pop – up and other types of programing dependent on your interest and what experience you might bring to the park.
Other
Other duties may consist of informal interpretation on shuttle buses, hiking trails and visiting viewpoints for the purpose of chatting with visitors, answering questions, and helping them get the most out of their experience.
There may also be opportunities for cross training in some divisions like: Assisting in emergency carryout’s, Search and Rescue (SAR), Resource Management, and Maintenance.
A Day in the Life of an Interpretive Volunteer:
- Staff the Visitor Center Front Desk
- Present Interpretive Programming
- Rove trails making informal contacts
- Operate a government vehicle
- Operate a government computer
*These items are subject to change in consideration of COVID.
Position Details:
Minimum Hours per week worked: 32
1-2 Volunteers to start immediately – end of March – housing can be provided
1-2 Volunteers to start April – October – Tent and RV pads can be provided
*April – October minimum 3 month commitment.
Applicants should be able to do the following:
- Research, write, and deliver interpretive programs
- Operate a government vehicle safely
- Practice and provide exemplary customer service
- Work independently
- Communicate with visitors (English language and non-English speaking)
- Be a team-member
- Respond with patience, tact and empathy
Other Favorable Qualifications:
- Previous experience working with visitors/customers
- Experience with interpreting geologic processes
- Experience with interpreting Astronomy and the night sky
- Familiarity with telescopes and night sky objects
- Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Flexibility
- Conservation Education
- Drivers License
- Public Speaking
- Visitor Information
- Working with People
Weather and Climate
In summer the days tend to be pleasant, with daytime highs in June typically in the high 60’s to low 70’s (F), High 70’s to low 80’s in July and August, while September is similar to June. The rainy season occurs in July and August with frequent, usually brief, afternoon thunderstorms which produce heavy rain and frequent lightning. Snowstorms in April and October aren’t uncommon and may produce heavy snowfall.
During the fall and winter temperatures can be highly variable. From October to May temperatures fall below freezing nearly every night. The park experiences its coldest and snowiest periods from December through February. Spring storms in March and April can still produce heavy snowfall that may impact travel in the region. At 8,000 feet, Bryce has cold winters and weather can be severe producing more than 100 inches of snow. All staff is expected to present programs and staff outdoor contact stations, COVID dependent. We perform duties in all weather conditions, including temperatures ranging between 10 and 65 degrees in winter.
Note: Bryce Canyon National Park elevations reach 9,100 feet (2778 meters). People with heart or respiratory concerns should be especially careful to not overexert themselves.
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Equipment operation
- lightning, summer monsoon events, high elevation, sun exposure, freezing temperatures. Winter/ Shoulder Season Specific: Snow, Winter Road Conditions