Overview
The Murie Program and Interpretive Assistant is a seasonal position with Teton Science Schools’ Outdoor Learning Experiences team based at the Murie Ranch, a National Historic Landmark District in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) that was home to Olaus and Mardy, and Adolf and Louise Murie. The Muries, Olaus and Mardy especially, were key figures in the modern conservation movement, ahead of their time in the fields of ecology, political advocacy and education. The Ranch was the birthplace of the Wilderness Act and other legislation and conversations around the protection of wilderness.
The Murie Program and Interpretive Assistant provides interpretation about the Murie legacy to a wide array of audiences including the general public and Teton Science Schools (TSS) participants. This is a dynamic position; a day may include chatting with visitors at the Murie Ranch, leading a formal docent tour of the Murie home, and supporting logistics of residential programming. The program assistant is part of the public facing team of the Murie Ranch, available and willing to answer questions from the general public as well as participants staying at the Murie Ranch. This position will provide campus-specific assistance to TSS staff when they are leading programs at the Murie Ranch. TSS hosts a number of Road Scholar programs – educational travel trips for retirees – on the Murie Ranch and this role will support evening activities and dinner, and offer general guest assistance during these week-long programs. Other duties could also include providing support for residential programs and other Murie Ranch events including the annual Spirit of Conservation Award and the weekly evening lecture series.
The Murie Ranch, located near GTNP headquarters, is home to rustic and historic buildings that require care and upkeep throughout the season. We are a small, tight-knit team at the Ranch with varying responsibilities and have a culture of all pitching in to get the work done including washing dishes and light facilities work such as changing light bulbs and setting mouse traps.
Responsibilities:
– Interpretation & Instruction (50%)
– Programmatic Support (50%)
– Support Murie Ranch program coordinator and other TSS staff in Murie Ranch systems and logistics
– Set up and take down of rooms, welcome/greet? and provide orientation for residential participants
– Provide logistical support for residential programming at the Murie Ranch, especially evenings, and with Road Scholar programs.
– Serve in an on-call rotation
Qualifications:
– Valid Wilderness First Responder Certification
– Willingness to learn about the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and Murie legacy through self-directed study
– Experience developing and leading interpretive programs or historic tours for the general public
– Interpersonal skills to maintain open and effective communication, including ability to give and receive feedback
– Desire to work as a collaborative team member
Qualifications:
- Valid driver’s license
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Successful applicants must pass a criminal history background check and driving record review prior to start date
About Teton Science Schools
Since 1967, Teton Science Schools has connected people, place, and nature through education, engaging learners of all ages in meaningful, place-based experiences that inspire curiosity, leadership, and a deep sense of connection to the world around them.
