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Interpretive Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JPL

Contracts Manager IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$96K - $129K/yr

We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations ... Be the primary interpretive body for contractual matters. Provide clear guidance to Laboratory ...

Aramark

$21 - $23/hr

... guide manuals, National Park Service regulations, interpretive guidelines, Leave No Trace protocols, and wilderness first aid. • Responsible for developing and distributing marketing materials ...

HDR

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Prepare and guide junior staff in the preparation of design plans for major mechanical engineering projects * Make interpretive detailed sketches or layouts of intricate or fundamental portions of ...

HDR

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Prepare and guide junior staff in the preparation of design plans for major mechanical engineering projects * Make interpretive detailed sketches or layouts of intricate or fundamental portions of ...

Northern Trust

Associate Portfolio Advisor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$114K - $194K/yr

NTRS) is proud to guide the world's most successful individuals, families, corporations and ... Analytical and interpretive skills are needed to understand client needs in the context of ...

Northern Trust

Associate Portfolio Advisor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$114K - $194K/yr

NTRS) is proud to guide the world's most successful individuals, families, corporations and ... and interpretive skills are needed to understand client needs in the context of investment ...

Northern Trust

Associate Portfolio Advisor

San Diego, CA · On-site

$114K - $194K/yr

NTRS) is proud to guide the world's most successful individuals, families, corporations and ... and interpretive skills are needed to understand client needs in the context of investment ...

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Interpretive Guide information

What are some common challenges Interpretive Guides face when engaging diverse audiences, and how can they overcome them?

Interpretive Guides often encounter groups with varying ages, backgrounds, and interests, which can make it challenging to keep everyone engaged. To overcome this, guides typically use a mix of storytelling, interactive activities, and adaptive communication techniques to connect with different learning styles. Flexibility and strong observation skills are key, allowing guides to adjust their approach on the spot for maximum impact. Building rapport and encouraging questions also helps ensure that all visitors feel included and engaged throughout the experience.

What are interpretive guides?

Interpretive guides are professionals who lead visitors through parks, museums, historical sites, or natural areas, providing educational and engaging information about the location’s natural, cultural, or historical significance. They use storytelling, demonstrations, and interactive activities to help guests connect with and understand the subject matter. Interpretive guides often tailor their presentations to different audiences and play a key role in conservation and public education efforts.

What is the difference between Interpretive Guide vs Naturalist?

AspectInterpretive GuideNaturalist
CredentialsOften requires interpretive or environmental education certificationsTypically has naturalist or environmental science background, sometimes with certifications
Work EnvironmentGuides visitors, leads tours, educates the public in parks, museums, or nature centersConducts research, observes wildlife, educates about ecosystems, often in field settings
Employer & IndustryFound in parks, zoos, museums, eco-tourismFound in parks, research institutions, conservation organizations

While both roles focus on environmental education, Interpretive Guides primarily lead tours and engage visitors, whereas Naturalists often conduct research and provide in-depth ecological education. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their primary focus and activities differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Interpretive Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Interpretive Guide, you need a solid understanding of natural or cultural history, excellent communication skills, and often a background in education or environmental science. Familiarity with audio-visual presentation tools, interpretive planning software, and certifications like Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) are commonly required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to engage diverse audiences set top guides apart. These skills are vital for delivering informative, memorable experiences that connect visitors with the site’s significance and foster stewardship.
What are popular job titles related to Interpretive Guide jobs in California? For Interpretive Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Interpretive Guide jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Interpretive Guide jobs in California are:
Interpretive Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Interpretive Guide job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Contracts Manager IV

Contracts Manager IV

JPL

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$96K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Details
New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers-literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission-your opportunity-is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you're driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you're ready for JPL.
Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.
Be a partner in making history. At JPL's Accounting & Contracts Division (ACD), we don't just manage numbers; we fuel the future of space exploration. We are looking for enthusiastic, visionary leaders to join our team of experts in Enterprise Accounting, Travel and Invoice Management, and Contracts. If you thrive on solving complex business challenges with innovative solutions, it's time to launch your career with us.
As a Contracts Manager IV within the Contracts Management, Policy and Compliance Section (2110), you will serve as the Laboratory's primary authority on the NASA/Caltech Prime Contract and other contractual agreements. You will navigate complex contractual landscapes, providing the interpretive guidance and strategic oversight necessary to protect the Laboratory's interests while fostering innovation. This is a high-impact role requiring a blend of rigorous compliance expertise, sophisticated negotiation skills, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities include but not limited to:
  • Be the primary interpretive body for contractual matters. Provide clear guidance to Laboratory personnel and executive management on rights, obligations, and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Lead the negotiation and execution of complex agreements, including Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA), Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI), Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding (MOU), and other high-level contractual instruments with the government, civil and commercial sponsors.
  • Serve as the principal interface and manage critical relationships with the NASA Office of JPL Management and Oversight (NOJMO), other NASA Centers, and Caltech, and Lab leadership, and sponsors to ensure institutional alignment on goals and objectives.
  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams and manage priorities, budgets, and resources. Recommend and implement strategic changes that improve organizational efficiency and compliance posture.
  • Ensure adherence to Caltech/JPL policies and federal regulations. Conduct rigorous reviews of documentation and maintain gold-standard contract records.

Qualifications
  • Typically a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field with a minimum of 9 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in similar discipline with a minimum of 7 years of related experience; OR PhD in similar discipline with a minimum of 5 years of related experience.
  • Broad multidisciplinary knowledge of industry best practices in contract, personnel, and program/project management.
  • Deep familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and other government and/or commercial contracting principles.
  • Extensive experience analyzing and negotiating complex contract terms and conditions.
  • Proven track record in a managerial or project leadership role, with the ability to lead change and innovation under pressure.
  • High degree of attention to detail and the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
  • Excellence in analytical and research skills, working knowledge of financial applications, and proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience working with Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC)s, NASA, and/or academic institutions.
  • An active TS/SCI clearance is highly desirable.

Competencies for Success
  • An "open-minded change agent" who identifies opportunities for continuous improvement.
  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels, including legal, executive teams, and faculty.
  • Ability to maintain sound judgment and lead with composure in a high-stakes environment.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.
For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks
The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$132,600 - $158,704
JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.
In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
EEO is the Law.
EEO is the Law Supplement
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.

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