POSITION DESCRIPTION
Cultural Ambassador Lead

Employment Category: Regular Full-Time
Location of Work: Juneau, AK
Salary Grade(s): 7/8 ($24.52-$35.20)
Hours of Work: Seasonal Full-Time
Type of Position: Non-exempt

PURPOSE
This position is located at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area and plays a vital role in sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people while promoting respect and stewardship for the natural environment.
The Cultural Ambassador Lead supports the Cultural Ambassador Manager in coordinating and implementing the Tlingit & Haida Cultural Ambassador Program. This role focuses on providing visitors with cultural and natural history education, information, and interpretive services that highlight the perspectives and traditions of the Tlingit people.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Provide on-site supervision and support under the guidance of the Cultural Ambassador Manager, ensuring smooth daily operations and staff coordination.
• Advocate for and facilitate meaningful conversations about co-stewardship, Alaska Native traditional protocols, history, and Tlingit and Haida culture.
• Educate visitors and staff by delivering consistent messaging on MGRA co-stewardship, co-management, government-to-government relationships, and self-governance principles.
• Oversee administrative tasks, including program reporting, scheduling, and time management.
• Design, develop, and present engaging educational programs on topics such as local history, Tlingit and Haida culture, and the natural ecosystems of the Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau area.
• Operate and maintain audiovisual equipment in the Visitor Center to support presentations and educational programs.
• Manage purchasing, inventory, and maintenance of educational materials, equipment, and program supplies.
• Identify and address facility deficiencies and troubleshoot issues with exhibits or equipment to maintain a high-quality visitor experience.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures related to MGRA operations and co-stewardship agreements.
• Provide visitors with accurate and culturally appropriate information about Tlingit and Haida history, values, and traditions.
• Support the Cultural Ambassador Manager in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all staff and visitors at MGRA.
• Lead guided tours, orientation talks, and demonstrations for diverse public audiences, including school groups, while ensuring accessibility considerations.
• Assist in the creation and revision of educational and promotional materials, including brochures, guidebooks, handouts, and exhibits.
• Collaborate with the Cultural Ambassador Manager to identify opportunities for program improvement and cultural enrichment.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the Cultural Ambassador Program and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
NECESSARY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
• Possess effective verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills to lead and instruct diverse groups in an engaging manner.
• Knowledge of Tlingit and Haida community and culture.
• Ability to learn and present on topics including but not limited to, Tlingit and Haida language and introductions, traditional knowledge, history, geography, and ecosystems.
• Ability to acquire a diverse understanding of the local environment, including wildlife, plants, and ecosystems, to enhance the quality of visitor experiences.
• Understanding of Tlingit and Haida’s mission, vision, and values.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to take initiative and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Knowledge of the diverse range of outdoor facilities and safety requirements at MGRA.
• Communication skills and demeanor that foster positive interactions and engagement.
• Demonstrate a solid commitment to safety and teamwork in all activities and interactions.
• Exhibit flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and work requirements, ensuring a smooth and effective workflow.
• Exhibit problem-solving skills, particularly in identifying and troubleshooting issues related to outdoor facilities and visitor interactions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, Outlook Email, and electronic calendar scheduling.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Two (2) years of related experience in tourism, visitor services, natural resources, or education sectors.
• Education or six (6) months experience with the Tlingit and Haida community, culture, and language.
• Valid Driver’s License

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Education or experience with Tlingit and Haida community, culture, and language.
• Experience as a Naturalist or knowledge of the local area.
• Related experience within the tourism industry
• Post-secondary education in a relevant field.
• One (1) year experience in supervision, work lead, shift lead, team lead, or program coordination.

UNUSUAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Must be in good physical condition, able to hike and walk trails in the MGVC area.
• Ability to lead large groups on trails and boardwalks in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to clearly communicate verbally with hiking/walking groups and co-workers.

CONDITIONS OF HIRE
• All employment at Tlingit & Haida is “at will”. This means that the employee or Tlingit & Haida may terminate employment at any time and for any reason. Unless specified in writing, no term of employment is expressed or implied for this position.
• Tlingit & Haida is a no tolerance workplace. All regular employees may be required to pass a pre-employment and subsequent random drug and alcohol screening to be eligible for and maintain employment.
• Tlingit & Haida requires a criminal background check be conducted on all employees. All employment offers are conditional until federal criminal background check results verify your eligibility to work for Tlingit & Haida