Volunteer Service Description: Volunteer Interpreter, FY2026

Fiscal Year: 2026, Starting 10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026

Written by: J. Buechel

Supervised by: Supervisory Park Ranger S. Baxter

Staff Locations: Including, but not limited to: Montgomery Interpretive Center, Lowndes Interpretive Center, and Selma Interpretive Center.

Description of Service: The incumbent will assist park staff in operations at the Interpretive Centers, and any other work designated by the Supervisor.

Time Commitment: a minimum of 8 hours per week on a consistent basis (e.g. Mondays, Fridays), or on an “as-needed” basis if agreed upon.

Responsibilities: The incumbent will operate the front desk: Standing, greeting, and orienting visitors to the Interpretive Centers. Guides will answer questions about the Selma to Montgomery Trail, its history, as well as the local area. When complex questions or situations arise, the incumbent will work with the Trail staff to find an answer or solution. During periods of slow visitation, incumbent will work on projects and other work at the front desk. Incumbents will also be able to independently lead interpretive programs, work with educational groups, and other projects as assigned.

Health & Physical Requirement: None

Knowledge, Skills, Expertise, Qualifications:

• Work is appropriate for all ages, but incumbents of the ages 18+ preferred.

• Customer service skills as a representative of a government agency.

• Ability to work independently.

Training: None needed, but Volunteer training will be provided with multiple other training opportunities related to daily operations.

Benefits to Volunteers:

• Gain a better understanding of the Selma to Montgomery Marches and Dallas, Lowndes, and Montgomery County history.

• Make a positive impact on the community.

• Experience national parks in a new way.

• Learn about what it takes to interpret the history of The Civil Rights Era.

• Earn community and service-learning hours.

Working Conditions: This work will be performed mostly indoors and will include sitting and standing for long periods of time and lifting up to 30lbs.

Government Vehicle Use and Driver’s License: This position will not require the use of a government vehicle, which requires a Driver’s License. Government vehicles may be used by the incumbent if approved by the Volunteer in Parks Coordinator and Trail Management.

Government Property and PPE: A uniform shirt will be issued to the Volunteer as a part of the Volunteer Uniform to be worn while volunteering. No PPE will be required or issued. Use of personal equipment will not be required.

Financial Reimbursement: This position will not allow for financial reimbursements unless if previously arranged beforehand and with the approval of the Volunteer in Parks Coordinator and Trail Administration.

Government Network Access: This position will not require the use of Government electronics nor Network Access. Government Network Access may be permitted by the incumbent if approved by the Volunteer in Parks Coordinator, Trail Management, and pending a proper background investigation.

Background Investigation: This position will require a government background investigation due the potential use of government vehicles, computers, and other property, Government Network Access, working alone in a federally controlled area, and with children in an educational capacity.

This Volunteer Service Description can be used for people who will be virtually presenting to schools or other groups.