PARK INTERPRETIVE SPECIALIST 4260

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class is responsible for the development, promotion, operation and maintenance of a program designed to orient and impart to the visitor a basic understanding of a municipal park as a whole. The incumbent is involved in developing, promoting, and implementing a program for the appreciation of historical features, natural resources and social and recreational importance of municipal park properties. Technical skill must be utilized within the scope of an established program of the department whose jurisdiction the park is under. Supervision is exercised over a staff of aides, laborers and seasonal assistants. Work is subject to review by an administrative supervisor through inspection and oral and written reports. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Conducts guided interpretive walks through municipal parks;

Plans and lays out scenic and informative nature trails;

Identifies natural and historical features in park areas and interprets their significance;

Promotes and coordinates school, group and individual involvement in conservation, education and use of municipal park land;

Prepares interpretive materials, literature and programs for public information;

Develops awareness of recreational and environmental benefits of municipal park land.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of conservation principles and environmental problems; knowledge of man's place in his environment and the interdependence of man and nature; ability to interpret the natural and historical features of parks to groups and individuals interested in nature interpretation and conservation education; ability to plan, assign and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale; ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Either:

(a) Graduation from a New York State or Regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree which includes, or is supplemented by, at least twenty-four (24) semester credit hours in the natural sciences; or,

(b) Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, and four (4) years of experience working in a park designing and/or implementing nature, conservation or historical programs; or,

(c) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (a) and (b).

R1/21/88

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

RR1/22/03