Education Assistant Summer Intern

MAJOR DUTIES:

Giving Talks - Provides pre-established talks normally following a prescribed outline and requiring application of broad subject-matter knowledge of the features of interest peculiar to the site. Such talks include detailed and specific interpretation and explanation of the outstanding features of the site from the standpoint of scientific or historical interest, the background of events leading up to the natural feature or phenomenon; the facts, events, personalities and circumstances. In addition, the talks provide general information about other sites of public interest; facilities for public use; pertinent rules and regulations; and other matters designed to stimulate a sense of appreciation and thus encourage protection and preservation of the scenic, scientific or historic features. The talks may be given in conjunction with live demonstrations, the use of electronic maps, photographic slides, and other audio-visual devices.

Answering Questions - Answers a wide variety of visitor questions. The questions encountered arise from observation of the features themselves; from the demonstrated major interests of visitors, or the nature of the talks. The answers to these questions require explanation and description of the background of the events leading up to the natural or scientific development and the introduction and discussion of an extensive body of facts, events, personalities, and circumstances.

Guiding Parties - Guides very large groups (of up to 50 people) in situations where: the physical limitations of the area or facility being explained make it difficult to accommodate the party on trips of two or more hours duration; the work situation is such that there is potential danger of serious accidents or injury or other emergency situations; or the trips are of several hours duration, and teams of guides are utilized. If guiding a group of people along a fixed route the guide must keep the group together; maintain a pace which the group can keep up with and still conform to prescribed schedules; know the routes and any shortcuts which can be taken if necessary or desirable. If stationed at a point of visitor concentration the guide must conduct visitors through the building/site, telling the story of the events which took place there, how those events related to the particular historic situation. When the need arises, the guide must take measures to maintain order in the parties, prevent crowding or damage to historic sites, and take appropriate action in case of emergency until relieved.

Providing Services to Visitors - Provides a wide range of services to visitors, including assistance with lost articles, car trouble, and first aid; and provides information about weather conditions, highway routes, park and concessioner facilities, and prices. In performing this duty the guide is responsible for providing current, accurate information concerning the NPS and other surrounding areas of interest, explaining the area's recreational opportunities, including NPS interpretive services, concession-operated facilities and services, campground availability and hiking trails. Additionally, provides public orientation and explanations of current park events, and informs visitors of potential safety hazards. Miscellaneous Duties In accomplishing his/her work, the guide may perform any or all of the following duties depending on the specific needs of the park unit. These duties constitute 20% or less of the duties of this position.

Interns will be paid $1,000 and have the option to live in paid, on-site housing.