Musk Ox Interpretive Guide

Musk Ox Farm Interpretive Guide - Palmer, Alaska

About the Musk Ox Farm

The Musk Ox Farm is a non profit organization with the unique mission: to promote gentle musk ox husbandry, qiviut production and provides education to the public. The musk ox is an Ice Age mammal that once roamed the earth alongside sabre-tooth tigers and woolly mammoths. Keeping them warm in the winter, musk oxen produce qiviut (kiv'-ee-ute), the soft underwool of a musk ox and one of the warmest and finest natural fibers. In the spring, when the animals are shedding naturally, farm staff will gently hand-comb qiviut from all the members of the herd. Our interpretive guides (you) help us share the wonders of the musk ox with visitors of all ages through engaging tours, educational programs, and interactive exhibits.

About the Role

We are seeking passionate and responsible individuals to join our team as Interpretive Guides. In this role, you will play a vital part in bringing the story of the musk ox to life for our visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct engaging tours and presentations: Lead informative and entertaining tours, sharing knowledge about musk ox biology, the history of the Farm, and the unique properties of qiviut with diverse groups of visitors.
• Sharing your expertise: Communicate complex scientific and historical information in a clear and engaging manner that is accessible to all audiences.
• Maintaining a welcoming and professional environment: Ensure the visitor areas of the Farm are clean, organized, and inviting. Adhere to appropriate personal appearance and behaviors at the farm.
• Contributing to the Farm's Mission: Participate in various aspects of Farm operations, including assisting with special events and contributing to the ongoing success of our educational programs.
• Provide exceptional customer service: Warmly welcome visitors, answer their questions, ensure they have a positive and enriching experience, and operate the Point-of-Sale System (POS) for the purchase of qiviut products and other merchandise.
• Effectively communicate information: Convey complex scientific and historical information in a clear and engaging manner that is accessible to all audiences.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Passionate about wildlife and natural history: You have a genuine interest in learning about and sharing your knowledge of the natural world.
• Enthusiastic: You enjoy interacting with people and have a strong desire to connect with visitors.
• Strong Communicators: You possess excellent verbal communication skills and can adapt your communication style to different audiences, or a willingness to learn.
• Dedicated to Education: You are eager to learn and grow as an educator, and you are committed to providing a high-quality educational experience for our visitors.
• Team Players: You can work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with colleagues to achieve shared goals.

Experience and Background

While not required, prior experience in education, wildlife biology, customer service, or a related field is a plus. A strong interest in and enthusiasm for learning about the natural world are essential qualities.

Compensation

• Hourly Rate: Depending on skill sets, experience, and availability, the rate of pay varies between $12-$16 per hour. All seasonal staff will agree to a fulfillment date. If the employee is in good standing and available to work until that date a bonus of $1 per hour for every hour worked throughout the season will be paid.
• Professional Development: We provide training and support to help you develop your interpretive and educational skills.

Season

The Interpretive Guide position is typically a seasonal role, running from early May through October. However, we may have opportunities for year-round employment for exceptional candidates. We are currently looking to fill one part time position that will start as early as February.

Please be aware no housing is available on site.

To Apply

Please submit your resume, a cover letter explaining your interest in this position and your relevant experience, and three references to: dani@muskoxfarm.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, positions will remain open until filled. Please do not contact the farm, we will reach out to you to schedule interviews as needed. Note in your email your available start date.