[M-IS10] Geopark

[MIS10-P04] Professional Duties and Employment Situation of Geopark Specialists

*Mana Yasui^1,2, Tsuyoshi Kichise³, Takayuki Ogata⁴ (1.Waseda research institute for science and engineering, 2.Non-Profit Organization Science and Art, 3.Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark Promotion Council, 4.Graduate School of Engineering and Science, University of the Ryukyus)

Keywords:Geopark, Geopark Specialist, Professional Duties, Employment Situation, recruitment information

Geoparks have been established across Japan, and the term "Geopark" has become widely recognized. However, there is still limited understanding of what Geopark specialists do in their daily activities and how they utilize their expertise.Each Geopark has unique characteristics depending on its geoscientific topics and operational policies, resulting in variations in the roles and responsibilities of specialists. Additionally, employment structures vary, including direct employment by Geoparks, municipal government positions (such as in the education board, tourism department, or general administration), museum curators, and members of regional revitalization programs. Each Geopark has independently developed its own employment framework.Due to these differences, recruitment information is not standardized, making it unclear for applicants what criteria they should consider when deciding to apply. This study will analyze recruitment information and conduct interviews with current Geopark specialists to understand their actual working conditions and identify potential challenges in their work.