Current Position: Forest and Conservation Worker/Interpretation
How long have you been with New Mexico State Parks?
2+ years
How did you become interested in working in the state parks system?
Through appreciation of public lands and natural resources. I also enjoy people and enjoy teaching.
Describe a typical day at your job.
(If there is no such thing as a typical day, then please tell us about your primary responsibilities and duties.)
Expect the unexpected: Removing a rattlesnake from a restroom. Speaking with visitors about where to camp, swim, fish, kayak, or birdwatch. Bookwork, collecting park fees from pay stations, counting money, making a flyer for an evening program, cleaning toilets in the visitor center, and talking to a potential volunteer.
How many hours a week do you work in this position?
40 hours per week.
What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
Making exhibits, learning materials, and teaching/helping people find enjoyable things to do during their visit.
What do you find to be the greatest challenges of your job?
Dealing with the bureaucracy.
What kind of training/schooling is required in your position?
I have a BA in Recreation Management and an MS in Environmental Education.
Is there any kind of training or general experience that you wish you had before taking your job?
I wish I had taken Latin and more wildlife biology.
What are a few of the projects that you've been working on recently that have been the most interesting?
Putting together power points for evening programs and writing new interpretive signage.
If someone were interested in working in your position, what advice could you give them?
Do it for the job satisfaction (which can be high), not for the salary (which will be low).
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