FRIENDS OF SILVER FALLS STATE PARK

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position: Retail and Information Associate

Status: Non-exempt, part-time, seasonal (spring-fall)

Reports to: Administrator

POSITION SUMMARY:

The retail and information associate will work collaboratively with staff/volunteers from Friends of Silver Falls (FOSF) and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) to deliver excellent visitor service and knowledge of Silver Falls State Park. Retail work includes assisting with South Falls Nature Store operations with a focus on merchandising. This interpretive store is an extension of the Silver Falls experience, and we pride ourselves on helping park visitors create lifetime memories while deepening their connection to the park. Tasks also include assisting the administrator and assistant store manager with record-keeping, answering visitor inquiries, and special projects.

In addition, all staff understand and support the following Friends of Silver Falls mission statement:

To further the educational and interpretive opportunities available to Park visits; promote the preservation, protection, and enhancement of the historical, natural, and recreational resources within the Park; and assist in implementing park improvements and educational programs compatible with the nature of Silver Falls State Park.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provide excellent visitor service by being welcoming and knowledgeable

  • Assist retail management with store duties such as inventory receiving, stocking, cleaning, organizing, and merchandising

  • Pick up merchandise at the park office and transport it to the store or storage - must be able to lift boxes and transport shipments daily

  • Independently run day-to-day retail store operations

  • Support and lead volunteers by being present to assist with questions, sales, returns, and stocking

  • Become an expert in the educational value of store products and be able to communicate the significance to visitors and volunteers

  • Maintain store logbooks and follow cash-handling procedures

  • Assist with special projects and events as requested by the administrator

  • Act as an ambassador of FOSF and OPRD to ensure park visitors have a meaningful and positive experience

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work on a team and to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, visitors, partners, and park staff

  • Knowledge or willingness to learn about Silver Falls State Park resources, services, activities, and facilities

  • Knowledge or willingness to learn about inventory management procedures & POS systems

  • Ability to recognize, listen, and respond to sensitive situations with volunteers, visitors, and park staff

  • Ability to move shipments from office to storage, often working outdoors

  • Ability to work harmoniously with diverse groups of people and agencies

  • Ability to read, understand, and follow oral and written instructions

  • Maintain regular attendance and perform the physical and mental requirements of the job

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Oregon Driver’s license and appropriate insurance

  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

  • Ability to lift up to 40lbs and move shipments frequently

  • Must pass an OPRD background check

GENERAL PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintain a professional appearance appropriate to the position

  • Carry out work responsibilities effectively under interruptions and time restraints

  • Adhere to the policies and procedures of Friends of Silver Falls

DURATION:

This is a seasonal position beginning in April and ending in October. Hours fluctuate from 15-25 hours per week based on operational needs. Weekends and evenings are required, but we are willing to work with scheduling needs.

FRIENDS OF SILVER FALLS BENEFITS:

  • Part-time seasonal employees: 5 sick days (40 hours), no paid time off, time and a half pay for holidays worked

  • Discount/Pass: All staff receive a 20% discount at the Nature Store and an annual Oregon State Park pass valid at all state parks

  • Location:  Your place of employment is the “Gem” of the Oregon State Park system!

Friends of Silver Falls State Park is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, a non-job-related medical condition, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.