The Public Programs Apprentice is a position designed to enhance an individual's interpretation skills and ultimately prepare the individual to for a program manager position. Cincinnati Nature Center recognizes a need in the industry for those who desire to take their programming skills to the next level.  In this apprenticeship, the ideal candidate will not only create and deliver a wide range of public and family programming, but the candidate will be exposed to how to ensure the administrative pieces are also accomplished including, program promotion, media, and exhibits.

Cincinnati Nature Center is an organization dedicated to continuous improvement.  The Public Programs Apprentice will have a strong desire to continue their personal development.  We strive to give our members and visitors fresh experiences with each visit. 

The ideal candidate will have experience with a broad array of interpretive methods and a solid foundation in teaching with strong group management in a non-formal setting.  Current NAI Certified Interpretive Guides will be given first look, however, all applicants with a desire to grow their interpretation skills are welcome to apply.

Each application must have a letter of intent accompanying it.  The letter should explain why you desire this position including how your current background supports your decision to apply and what you intend to do after the apprenticeship.  Please include examples of how you currently use your interpretive skills and how you would like to grow in the interpretive field.  

General Information

Position Title:

Public Programs Apprentice

Classification:

Salaried, Exempt

Supervisor:

Public Programs Manager

Category:

Full-Time, Intern (Stipend)

Department:

Visitor Experience/Public Programs

Schedule:

At least 30+ hours/week, however TBD

Revision:

March 2019

Purpose  

With direction from the Public Programs Manager, this twelve month apprenticeship provides an opportunity to candidate to strengthen their interpretive skills with practical, hands-on experiences.  Areas of focus include program development and execution, project management, training, and direct visitor experiences.  This position executes all activities with the highest standards for safety, customer service and in keeping with the Nature Center’s Mission, Values and Principles.

Essential Job Responsibilities

MIXED AGE EXPERIENTIAL PROGRAMS (50%):                                           

Conceive, plan, staff, deliver, and evaluate programs for children, mixed-age audiences, and adults with a special focus on translating conservation into viable public programs.
Craft program descriptions for CNC program publications and website. 

MEDIA & EXHIBITS (25%):   

Work with the public programs staff to design and create engaging personal and non-personal medial for visitors and groups including teaching aids, interpretive signage, and displays.
Develop and implement exhibit evaluation including formative and summative evaluation, tolerance testing of interpretive themes, and dwell time studies.

MANAGEMENT SKILLS (25%):   

Training - Assist with development and presentation of trainings, including mentoring and coaching, for interns, staff, volunteers, and interns to assure the highest quality experience for visitors. 
People Management – with support from the Public Programs Manager, develop supervisory skills by learning how to supervise, coach, and evaluate a team of staff, volunteers, and interns.

Additional Job Responsibilities

SPECIAL EVENTS:  Provides support for special community/fundraising events as needed.  These events may fall after hours or on weekends.

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position.  This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

Education and Competencies:

High School Diploma or GED required, four-year degree preferred
Experience with a broad array of interpretive methods preferred
A solid foundation in teaching and group management in a non-formal setting

Communication:

Excellent written and oral communication skills
Must maintain confidentiality of sensitive and confidential information

Qualifications:

High degree of flexibility and ability to adapt and improvise
A strong interest in gaining practical skills in non-formal education/interpretation
Ability to work weekends as needed (approximately 4-5 weekend days/month)
A tolerance for administrative work
Comfort with all aspects of the natural world (natural history knowledge is helpful but not essential)
Collaborative working style
Great customer service skills
A sense of humor, creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit
Must pass a background check

Computer Skills:

Proficient in Word, Power Point, Excel and other related software
Significant comfort using a computer to communicate with staff and volunteers

Work Environment:

Work must be performed on-site. 
Work is performed indoors, in an office environment and outdoors in a nature preserve.
Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.

Physical Demands:

This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity.