POSITION GOAL: To present historical programs relating to the Canal Experience and other historical themes.  To provide positive, engaging and educational experiences for Metroparks visitors and program participants that inspires preservation and conservation.

CLASSIFICATION:  Hourly/Seasonal

COMPENSATION:  $12.50 per hour.  Employer and employee contribute to Public Employees Retirement System.

MINIMUM POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Alternates to the following position requirements may be made as Metroparks finds appropriate and acceptable. 

Education:  High School graduate or equivalent; some college course work in history, education, communication, theater, or parks and recreation preferred.

Experience:     Some experience in historical re-enacting, research or public programming preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

·        Must be at least 18 years of age.

·        Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record

·        Must have the ability to communicate in an articulate, intelligent and friendly manner when serving the public or interacting with other staff.

·        Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

·        Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to work as a part of a team.

·        Able to understand and follow oral and written procedures and instructions.

·        Basic analytical and research skills.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

·        Work schedule:  Up to 40 hours per week including weekends, not to exceed 1456 hours per season; holidays and some evenings.

·        Term of employment varies from April through December based on need.

·        Requires lifting and carrying up to 40 lb. without assistance; climbing, walking, and working on top of canal boat and lock; working outdoors in all weather conditions.

·        Working around and with animals that pull the canal boat.

·        Working in and around grain dust, occasionally or regularly depending on assigned duties.

·        May require business use of personal vehicle.

·        Location:  Providence Metropark, Grand Rapids, Ohio, or any location as assigned in Lucas County.

REPORTS TO:  Canal Experience Coordinator

DIRECT REPORTS:  None

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

·        Present interpretive programs and first person living history characters for the public.

·        Steer, handle rope lines, and dock the Canal Boat on the Miami & Erie Canal.

·        Work safely around all equipment in related work areas.

·        Assist in all phases of interpretive programs.

·        Research and develop living history characters.

·        Assist in the maintenance of all assigned historical program facilities and equipment; including light maintenance tasks.

·        Maintain appropriate historical appearance and attire during programs.

·        Maintain organized and clean work areas and facilities.

·        Assist in educational or cultural programming as needed throughout the district.

·        Other Park District work related duties as assigned.

EQUIPMENT USED:  Canal Boat and equipment used in its daily operation.  Metroparks vehicles, hand and power tools, safety equipment and audio visual equipment, historical props, etc.