Interpretive Services Volunteer

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Visitor Center Desk Volunteer

This position is located in the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, and is under the Division of Interpretation. Interpretation provides informational and educational services to diverse audiences, including organized groups of adults or children, families, and international visitors. Groups vary in size from small groups to up to 150 when school groups arrive. Visitation is seasonal, with the height of summer bringing 1,800 to 2,000 visitors per day. Visitor Center Volunteers are the front-line representatives of the National Park Service. Their orientation and customer service assists visitors in having an educational and enjoyable experience at the site. Visitor Center Volunteers will often work independently at the site.

Responsibilities and Duties

· Greets and orients visitors to Craters of the Moon recreational opportunities.

· Answers questions from visitors in-person, over the phone or through surface mail.

· Provides orientation talks for special groups including formal educational programs.

· Provides pertinent brochures and maps to meet visitor needs.

· Researches the history of the area.

· Opens and/or closes the Visitor Center.

· Records daily statistics and provides information to staff members.

· Works on special projects as assigned.

· Uses two-way radio equipment and telephone for communications.

· Tracks brochures inventories and reorders as needed.

· Basic housekeeping duties, keeping workspace neat and clean.

Knowledge and Abilities Required for the Position: (We will train you + knowledge acquired on the job):

· Historical knowledge of Craters of the Moon and history of the Snake River Plain.

· Knowledge of the mission and policies of the National Park Service.

· Ability to deal with a wide variety of people in an effective and tactful manner.

· Ability to present interpretive presentations to a variety of ages and audiences.

· Ability to develop an interpretive talk using themes, goals and objectives as a framework.

· Ability to get along with people.

· Ability to remain calm and friendly when confronted by visitors.

· Ability to adapt to changing work conditions.

· Ability to work independently (when required). Skill in oral communication.

· Ability to acquire knowledge of the natural and cultural history of Craters of the Moon and its significance.

Must be willing to commit to an agreed upon work schedule.

Supervision

Volunteer works under the supervision of the Visitor Center Operations Manager for usual day-to-day duties. Supervised by the Volunteer Coordinator or Lead Interpretive Ranger. Training will be provided in Visitor Center/Contact Station protocols, opening and closing of the Visitor Center/Contact Station, Park history, and CRMO’s goals and themes. The Park film, written materials, and ranger-led programs are available to gain more knowledge of the Park and its history. Supervisor will complete mid-season and end of season evaluation of work.

Guidelines

Guidelines include established National Park Service procedures, program objectives, interpretation guidelines, legislative mandates, management policies, Park practices and supervisory guidelines. Volunteer exercises judgment in identifying problems and reporting to supervisor.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily indoors, but may include roving/hiking or other outdoor duties. Some work may be outside under a variety of conditions: hot, cold, wind, and rain. Weather can be extreme at times. Volcanic terrain may be uneven.

Items provided for Volunteers

Volunteer shirt. Volunteer name tag. Volunteer hat. Jacket (depending on weather and location).

Lodging may be available for volunteers who can commit to 30 hours/week for 2.5 months.

We also have positions available (without housing) for volunteers who can commit to a regular day shift--10am-4pm a few times a week.

Volunteers who contribute more than 250 hours (certified by their supervisor) may be recognized with a Volunteer America the Beautiful pass

Items provided by Volunteers

A positive attitude and a willingness to share Park history and information with visitors. Black or khaki pants or skirt to wear with uniform shirt.

Note

Visitor Center volunteers must successfully pass a background check to be selected for this position.

Start Date - 2025-05-18

End Date - 2025-09-30