Arboretum Interpretation Assistant

About the Job

This is a part-time (up to 67 days per year), year-round position; and is located at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, MN.

Supervisor:
Annie Klodd, Manager of Interpretation and Visitor Learning.

Schedule:

Shifts occur throughout the year, primarily during Arboretum public events on weekends and evenings. The position also includes preparation meetings with fellow Interpretation staff; timing is flexible.

As part of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Education Department, the Interpretation Assistant facilitates drop-in learning activities for visitors of all ages centered on horticulture, plant science, and plant ecology. Most activities occur during Arboretum public events (e.g. Spring Flower Show, Maple Fest, Firefly Nights, others) and align with the themes of each event. Occasionally, represent the Arboretum by tabling off-site at community events.

Deliver activities in a welcoming, informative, and engaging manner that supports the organization's mission:
Growing knowledge and inspiring action to support thriving ecosystems and our vital relationship with nature.

• Facilitate engaging and informative plant-centric activities at Arboretum events, including simple crafts, plantings, demonstrations, and educational games using natural plant materials
• Meet with Interpretation Team staff outside of event times to learn, prepare for, and review activity plans. Follow instructions and review written resources provided by Interpretation staff.
• While at events, answer basic visitor questions about the Arboretum.
• Guide work of volunteers assisting with events.
• Set up and tear down table displays before and after events; in some cases, this may involve breaking down a folding table and pop-up tent.
• Keep materials clean and organized, and notify Interpretation staff when materials need to be fixed, laundered, or replaced.
• Keep records such as participation numbers, visitor feedback, and frequently asked questions; make comment cards available to visitors.
• Maintain a very high level of customer service and professionalism.
• Be welcoming and respectful to all guests; provide equitable access to activities by assisting visitors needing accessibility accommodations.
• Occasionally assist with other Education Interpretation activities such as accompanying guided walking tours, preparing "Explorer Backpack" materials for young visitors, and collecting plant materials (e.g. twigs, leaves) to use in programs.

Required

• Strong public speaking and communication skills
• Strong interest in and enthusiasm for horticulture, gardening, plant science, and plant ecology
• Passion for learning new science-based information and teaching it to the public
• Willingness to work either indoors or outdoors, in various weather conditions including sun, wind, heat, and mild cold
• Commitment to following instructions and independently developing solutions when issues arise
• Successful applicants must pass a background check

Preferred

• Previous teaching experience in a classroom or informal setting (e.g. nature center, museum, community organization)
• Extension Master Gardener training or similar horticultural training
• A positive, outgoing personality including a dose of patience and sense of humor
• Experience working as part of a team

Pay Range: $18.00 - $19.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ or call .

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity…