Part-Time Interpreter

Role overview

Huron-Clinton Metroparks is hiring a year-round, part-time Interpreter to deliver engaging interpretive experiences for school groups, families, community groups, and other park visitors. The role supports the sharing of Southeast Michigan’s natural and cultural heritage through talks, demonstrations, guided programming, and public-facing outreach at the district’s nature centers, farms, and museums.

This position reports to either the District Interpretive Services Supervisor or the Farm Center Interpretive Supervisor and operates with a fair amount of independence while exercising sound judgment in day-to-day work.

Compensation

Pay is $16.17 to $18.80 per hour, depending on qualifications/experience (DOQ), with work capped at up to 1,500 hours per year. Eligible part-time employees can also earn a retention bonus of up to $5.75 per hour for all hours worked between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Key duties

The Interpreter supports the design and delivery of educational and interpretive programming and helps keep public programs running smoothly.

• Assist with planning and presenting interpretive programs for students, families, summer camps, and the general public.
• Help create interest in park programs through tasks, illustrated talks, and distribution of program publicity.
• Maintain a flexible schedule that may include any day of the week, weekends, holidays, and morning or afternoon shifts, in all weather conditions.
• Handle registrations for groups and individuals, prepare invoices, send correspondence, and coordinate school and group visit details.
• Welcome visitors, respond to questions and phone calls, and share information about park facilities and activities.
• Support upkeep of indoor areas and outdoor spaces, including captive animal care and trail maintenance when needed.
• Assist with special events as assigned.

Qualifications and working conditions

The ideal candidate has a background in interpretation, environmental education, biology, natural resources, or a related field. An associate degree in a relevant discipline is required, while a bachelor’s degree is preferred. Candidates with at least 4 years of related service may receive credit toward the educational requirement and still be considered.

Applicants should either already hold Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certification or be able to earn it within 1 year of hire and keep it current afterward. The role also calls for the ability to learn interpretive programming methods, design science education experiences aligned with NGSS and Michigan Science Standards, communicate clearly in person, work cooperatively with schools and visitors, and bring creativity to new initiatives.

Additional expectations include following verbal and written instructions accurately, speaking confidently for tours and presentations, using carpenter, gardening, farming, and artistic tools, and working outdoors across sandy, marshy, and wooded terrain. A valid Michigan driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required. The position may involve travel to other parks and districts, and schedules may be adjusted to meet organizational needs, including special events, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Tools, equipment, and physical demands

Regular tools and equipment include a personal computer with database, scheduling, publishing, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, and word-processing software; calculator; copier and fax machine; phone; GPS unit; radios; automobile; and heavy farm equipment.

The job frequently involves walking, sitting, speaking, hearing, and using hands to handle or operate tools and controls. Occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, and crouching may be required. The role may involve lifting or moving up to 40 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Most work is performed indoors, though some outdoor work is expected in conditions that may include heat, rain, and snow.

Selection process and employment terms

Hiring may include a formal application review, education and experience evaluation, interviews, reference checks, job-related testing, a psychological evaluation, and a physical exam that includes drug screening.

This posting is a description of the kinds of work that may be assigned. Duties may change, and missing items are not excluded if they are similar, related, or a logical part of the role. The position description does not create an employment contract and may be updated by the organization as business needs change.