Interpreter (Summer Student)
Visitor Services
Wanuskewin is a global Centre of excellence in education and Indigenous tourism. Our teachings and respect for the land are rooted in Northern Plains Indigenous peoples’ cultures, heritage, and arts. We are committed to sharing over 6,400 years of oral and archaeological history, and Indigenous hospitality, though our Visitor Centre, Interpretive Exhibits, Indigenous-led Art Galleries, Conference Centre, Restaurant, over 6km of walking trails, and a growing conservation herd of Plains Bison, all located just 5 km north of Saskatoon. We are also proud to provide a variety of educational and interactive programs that share Indigenous cultures, teachings, languages, and history throughout the year.
POSITION SUMMARY
We are looking for highly motivated post-secondary students to join our Visitor Services team as Interpreters for the summer of 2025. The successful applicants will report to the Customer Experience Manager and Visitor Services Coordinator. This position works closely with other staff to greet and assist guests and deliver programming rooted in Northern Plains Indigenous peoples’ cultures, histories, and teachings. With a focus on interpretive programming, customer service, and education, our Interpreters are essential members of our team. This position runs May – August, and is based on site at the Visitor Centre.
The anticipated start date of this position is April 28, 2025.
Responsibilities:
- Welcome and inform visitors and guests of programs, exhibits, trails, and regulations
- Track all visitors in the Point of Sale system
- Apply a variety of heritage presentation and interpretation techniques
- Deliver meaningful and captivating in person, virtual, and outreach programming
- Adapt programs to meet specific audience needs and requirements
- Provide recommendations to enhance heritage presentations and interpretive programs
- Maintain the trails, visitor areas, and interactive exhibits
- Ensure excellence in the stewardship of all resources
- Assist in the development and delivery of engaging indoor and outdoor programming for children and adults
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
Our ideal candidates are post-secondary student in Indigenous studies, education, hospitality, tourism, biology, archaeology, anthropology, or natural history and be a returning student in the autumn of 2025. Previous experience conducting presentations or teaching in some format is required. Previous experience teaching youth in a variety of settings is considered an asset, as is a demonstrated knowledge of Indigenous cultures and traditions. Previous experience in public speaking, storytelling, powwow dancing, jigging, fiddling, or drumming/singing, as well as valid first aid certification would be considered an asset. Being able to present programs in French, or fluent in additional languages would be considered an asset.
Required qualifications and experience:
- Must have previous experience giving presentations, public speaking, teaching, or delivering programming
- Must have demonstrated knowledge of Northern Plains Indigenous peoples’ culture and traditions
- Must be able to communicate effectively with people of all ages and backgrounds
- Must have excellent written and oral communication skills
- Must be able to deliver programs and perform manual labour in adverse conditions such as heat, rain, and wind, and lift 50 lbs
- Must be able to work independently and as part of our diverse team
- Must be proficient in Microsoft Office
- Must have a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a commitment to our goals and mission
Preferred skills:
- Experience working with large and small groups of youth in a variety of settings
- Knowledge of Indigenous storytelling and styles of dance, drumming, and singing
- Ability to adapt to new situations and solve problems as they come up
- An attitude that is creative, proactive, high energy, and driven
- First Aid certification
- Experience with behavioral management techniques
- Familiarity with the Saskatchewan Education Curriculum
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person