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Grandfather Mountain Hiring for Seasonal Positions

Feb. 10, 2014. Grandfather Mountain is now hiring for numerous seasonal positions, including specialized positions for animal habitat employees, naturalists and interpretive rangers.

Jesse Pope, director of education and natural resources, leads an educational program with Shakespeare, a barred owl, on Grandfather Mountain. Photo courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.
Jesse Pope, director of education and natural resources, leads an educational program with Shakespeare, a barred owl, on Grandfather Mountain. Photo courtesy of Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.

The Linville attraction typically hires about 50 employees to assist with the Mountain’s busiest months. In addition to the specialized positions, the Mountain will seek staff for the restaurant, gift shops and ticket gate.

Most seasonal jobs begin in April and continue through late October or November. Candidates are encouraged to apply before March 1.

“Our seasonal employees play a critical role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit for our guests,” said Harris Prevost, vice president of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “In turn, working at Grandfather Mountain helps employees develop and hone interpersonal skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”

Among the positions for hire are:

Animal habitat staff — Responsible for the care of resident black bears, cougars, otters, deer and bald eagles, the maintenance of their habitats, daily enrichment sessions and education of the public. Duties include feeding and cleanup; weed-eating, raking and hauling debris; leading tours and talking with the public; organizing and implementing fundraising events; health observation and minor veterinary care.

Seasonal naturalist — Responsible for leading environmental education programs designed to teach guests about Grandfather Mountain, caring for educational animals and presenting programs with live animals, assisting with natural resource management and trail maintenance, and other education, conservation and research activities of the park.

Seasonal interpretive ranger — Responsible for interpretation with guests, including guided hikes, participating in trail maintenance and management, conservation and resource management activities through direct visitor contact, assisting with habitat tours and naturalist events, and other duties as assigned.

Additional employees will be hired for positions in the retail shops, food and beverage service and the ticket gate. While job descriptions vary, all employees are expected to exhibit outstanding customer service skills and a positive, upbeat attitude to ensure a pleasant visit for guests of the Mountain.

More details on the job descriptions and qualifications can be found online at www.grandfather.com under “Join The Team.” If considering a habitat, naturalist or interpretive ranger position, be sure to note the qualifications before applying.

Employees of Grandfather Mountain enjoy competitive wages, complimentary tickets, employee discounts, passes to other parks and attractions, possible year-end bonuses and a scenic and enjoyable work environment.

The scenic attraction is home to the Mile High Swinging Bridge and animal habitats for black bears, otters, cougars, eagles and deer. It also includes a Nature Museum, gift shops, restaurant and fudge shop.

Interested candidates may download an application at www.grandfather.com under “Join The Team” and mail it to: Employment, Grandfather Mountain, P.O. Box 129, Linville, NC 28646.

Other questions may be directed to Grandfather Mountain at (828) 733-2013.