Paul H. Douglas Center Information Desk Assistant

Position Overview

The volunteer will represent the National Park Service at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education. The volunteer will assist the National Park Service Interpretation Division in the operation of the Centers. Help greet visitors and school groups, share information about the center and park, and answer the telephone. 

Minimum Commitment

4 hours/week. Work takes place year-round. Openings are limited.

Goal / Outcome of Job: 

Ex: To assist park staff in providing orientation, information, and services to park visitors through staffing at the Visitor Center. This service sustains positive public relations with visitors as a representative of the National Park Service. 

Description of Duties

• Volunteer will be available in the visitor center to answer visitor questions and note any problems or general safety concerns which may arise. The assistant will offer and provide a general introduction to the park’s film “Child of the Northwest Wind” so visitors feel welcomed and comfortable to ask questions if they wish.

• Assistant periodically roves through the visitor center and asks visitors if he/she may be of assistance. The assistant will provide conducted activities (stories, puppet shows, puzzles, etc.) in the exhibit room during the listed “Fun at the Visitor Center” program.

• Assistant periodically checks the visitor center for litter and ensures that the shelves are stocked with park brochures and area information for the public. Assistants are a primary source of information for the visiting public.

• Assistants are encouraged to pursue any interests they may have in learning more about the park and local area interests. There are numerous interpretative programs that the assistants are encouraged to attend.

Knowledge/ Skills Desired

• Assistant should have general knowledge and understanding of the National Park Service mission and goals.

• They should be easily approachable, friendly, honest, fair, and willing to solve problems as they arise. 

• Assistant should possess good written and verbal communication skills. 

• A willingness to help others in a courteous and professional manner is essential since they are representing not just Indiana Dunes National Park, but the entire National Park Service.

Difficulty 

Low impact. Requires a combination of sitting and standing.

Working Conditions: 

Indoor, temperature-controlled environment