Looking for a Career in Resource Interpretation? Below you'll find employment opportunities for naturalists, park rangers, museum curators, exhibit design specialists, natural resource administrators, and more. Check out what the Mid-Atlantic Region has to offer.
Maryland Jobs: Positions posted to this website 9/4/2023 Position: Principal Park Naturalist (12345, Grade 24) Salary Range: $56,769.00 - $100,538.00 Annually Application Deadline: 11/7/2022 11:59 PM Eastern Organization: Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation Position Description: The Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking an experienced Principal Park Naturalist to coordinate a dynamic and sophisticated work program with the potential to encourage the next generation of environmental stewards and outdoor enthusiasts. Based at Mount Rainier Nature Center, the position has full oversight of facility operations as well as the surrounding grounds including pollinator gardens, natural areas, and a small amphitheater.
With a collection of up to 30 animals, the Naturalist is responsible for developing and coordinating the administration of nature-based interpretive, recreational, animal care / enrichment and educational programs -- establishing goals and schedules, evaluating and approving content as well as incorporating scientific and specialized expertise. Program elements should range from sustainability and land use principles to fish and wildlife conservation. A top priority will be internal and external outreach at the regional and local levels including community leaders, school administrators and teachers, nonprofit partners, Departmental colleagues and, of course, the public. The goal is to significantly expand the reach and influence of the Center and its programs – igniting curiosity, interest and engagement with key audiences, especially youth.
In addition, the position is responsible for administrative and financial functions including budget preparation and oversight, office operations, fee and revenue collection, reporting, recordkeeping, payroll and purchasing. Supervising a diverse part time staff - from naturalists to administrative assistants to maintenance specialists - the manager recommends staff selection, development, retention, and related matters; prepares work schedules; and assigns and reviews the work of staff. Finally, the position is responsible for managing and enhancing the surrounding natural resources and ensuring maintenance of the Nature Center facility by advising staff or arranging for contracts or Commission services as vital.
The position is ideal for an experienced individual who enjoys building community, leading people, educating others, supervising creative programs, addressing challenges, and capitalizing on opportunities. This is a full time, career position with benefits and the typical work schedule is Tuesday – Saturday, 40 hours a week, with some evenings as required.
All applicants to this job posting will be considered for this and future Principal Park Naturalist job openings for 6 months or until all qualified candidates have been exhausted from this job posting. At that time, a new job posting may be available for application to future openings. Examples of Important Duties
Manage facility operations that includes the budget, scheduling, hiring, operational security, safety practices, hours of operation, and overall personnel needs at the facility.
Supervise part-time staff, delegate assignments, conduct regular staff meetings, address performance issues with direction, and conduct evaluations.
Be responsible for quality animal care for a variety of domestic and exotic snakes, reptiles, and small mammals.
Develop, market, coordinate, and conduct specialized educational programs and activities that will be held on site and/or regionally.
Conduct periodic program and operational evaluations and set performance goals to ensure quality and impact of services are met.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with various audiences including internal Department staff, teachers, home-school groups, elected officials, scout leaders, specialty groups including seniors and different clubs, and community members.
Develop marketing materials, social media posts, and maintain MRNC webpages.
Have the ability to be constructive, creative and patient when resolving needs.
Operate vehicles and equipment including trucks, buses, power tools, etc.
Become proficient with Department software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, RecTrac, and Lawson.
Follow Department procurement policies. Acquire bids and quotes to procure materials and services as needed.
Provide excellent customer service
Important Worker Characteristics: A. Considerable knowledge of, and skill in (1) natural, life, and physical sciences; (2) environmental science; (3) principles and practices of interpreting natural and cultural history to the public; (4) effective instructional methods and techniques; (5) natural resource management; (6) outdoor and water safety; (7) cultural history of area*; (8) specialized animal care*; (9) education standards and (10) Commission organization, policies, and procedures*. Typically acquired or fully developed primarily after employment in this job class.B. Knowledge of, and skill in assigning or reviewing tasks, setting the pace, and otherwise assisting the supervisor by leading a permanently formed work group or ability to rapidly acquire knowledge and skills.
C. Skill and ability to (1) provide expert knowledge of a subject matter or area in the development of interpretative programs; (2) provide technical resource and program leadership to environmental, nature, and wildlife groups within the community; (3) provide expertise in a subject matter or naturalist area to other governmental entities; (4) coordinate optimally with other entities, staffs, and units within the Commission and the community in planning and carrying out programs, events, and activities; (5) interpret technical natural and cultural history materials to patrons; (6) provide courteous service; (7) organize work efficiently; (8) develop program promotional advertising material; (9) lead staff; and (10) maintain operating knowledge with changing technologies; (11) and provide CPR and first aid. D. Skill in problem solving to select, coordinate and logically process relevant information (verbal, numerical or abstract) to solve a problem. E. Skill in communication to understand verbal and written information (including facts, descriptions and ideas) and to express such information so that others will understand. Examples include writing clearly, effectively, and concisely; and planning, developing, leading, evaluating and presenting programs of large and extensive scope. F. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with contacts in a businesslike and courteous manner; this includes skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships and working as a member of a team. G. Skill in operation of (1) audio-visual equipment; (2) field sampling equipment; (3) camera; (4) motorboat, canoe, kayak; and (5) computer software, web-based management tools. Drive a multi-passenger vehicle for camps and specialized programs, taking animals to the veterinarian, picking up supplies, and attending meetings and other needs.
Working conditions Works in indoor and outdoor settings; works scheduled weekends, evenings, and holidays; and exposed to inclement weather and outdoor hazards. Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science, or any related field.
Two (2) years of progressively responsible park naturalist experience.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total six (6) years.
Valid driver's license in accordance with both State and Commission rules and regulations. Driver’s license must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit the employee’s ability to drive Commission vehicles or perform driving duties required by the position of assignment.
Pass Commission medical examination.
Supplemental Information Classification Specification Principal Park Naturalist Person(s) hired for this position must provide proof of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (with limited religious or medical exceptions). The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor. We will do what we can to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at 301-495-4525 to request accommodation. To Apply: Job Opportunities | Join Our Team at The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission! (governmentjobs.com)
Virginia Jobs: Positions posted to this website 9/4/2023 Documentary filmmaker searching for Historical Interpreters: We hope to film with each actor for a single day in mid- to late-September at a historical site in Virginia. We are hoping to hire two historical interpreters who own period costume and have a likeness to either: - Frances Ellen Watkins, the African American poet; we wish to depict her when she was about 30 years old in 1855 - Ralph Waldo Emerson, the essayist and poet; we wish to depict him at 40 years old in 1844. To apply please contact: www.fieldstudiofilms.com/contact
Delaware Jobs: Position posted to this website 8/5/2023 Title Director of Facilities Full-time, Exempt Location: Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, Milford, DE Ashland Nature Center, Hockessin, DE Coverdale Farm Preserve, Greenville, DE Organization Description Delaware Nature Society’s (DelNature) mission is to connect people with the natural world to improve our environment through education, conservation, and advocacy. We envision a healthy and sustainable environment. Founded in 1964, DelNature, a state affiliate for the National Wildlife Federation, is renowned for our educational programming, conservation, and advocacy. We provide the tools for communities to take action and promote the health of the environment through land preservation, wildlife protection, and watershed stewardship. We manage over 2,000 acres of land, including four nature preserves, and operates four educational sites: Ashland Nature Center, Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, DuPont Environmental Education Center, and Coverdale Farm Preserve. Our organizational priorities are comprised of three pillars of engagement focused on: Working & Natural Lands, Healthy Waters, and Protecting Habitats and Wildlife. DelNature aspires to be inclusive multicultural organization that celebrates the rich dimensions of diversity and is committed to understanding and addressing where we fall short. Diversity creates an awareness of and acknowledges respect for differences and translates into understanding and valuing of each other’s perspectives. We are committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourage all who are qualified to apply. Job Description The Director of Facilities works collaboratively with the DelNature Facilities Committee, Site Directors, and the Leadership Team to ensure that all DelNature-owned and -managed buildings, structures (113,000 sq. ft.), vehicles, and parking lots, are maintained in a safe, efficient, and sustainable way to support our mission. This position directs the design, planning, construction, and maintenance of the organization’s commercial facilities and residential properties. Facilities Director is responsible for developing and managing the day-to-day facility operating needs, capital budgets and long-range facilities plans based on the organizations growth and future facility needs. It oversees all major and minor repairs, performing repairs as able, contracts, bidding, and capital improvements to support the long-term goals of the organization. It promotes our mission by building strong relationships with the people we serve to grow membership, volunteerism, advocacy, program participation and financial support. The Facilities Manager reports to the Director of Operations. Based out of Ashland Nature Center in Wilmington, DE with responsibilities at Ashland Nature Center, Coverdale Farm Preserve, Wilmington, DE, and Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, Milford, DE. Responsibilities
Responsible for construction, repairs, maintenance and security of all buildings, structures, and parking lots owned and managed by DelNature.
Manages all work performed by trades and maintenance contracts for major systems including plumbing, electrical, fire protection, HVAC, septic, elevator, solar, waste removal, pest control, etc. and perform minor repairs as needed.
Manages bidding, contracts, invoicing and billing for all major repairs and capital improvements keeping site directors involved and informed as needed.
Manages the fleet of DelNature vehicles including DMV registrations and annual maintenance.
Collaborates with the land and biodiversity management team on snow removal.
Ensure that construction and maintenance uses best practices with consideration to environmental impact and that capital projects promote environmental sustainability.
Responsible for creating and managing annual facilities operating and capital budgets in collaboration with finance, senior leadership, site directors, and the facilities committee.
Develops and implements long term plans and strategies to meet capital needs and guide budgeting for preventative maintenance, energy efficiency and facility improvements in collaboration with finance, senior leadership, site directors, and the facilities committee.
Responsible for licensing, inspection, and preparing and following preventative maintenance schedules for all facilities systems, contracts, and equipment.
Manages utilities and associated billing including trash service and port-a-potty rentals.
Performs repairs and address immediate issues and facilities needs as requested by site staff.
Manages and monitors building cleanliness and supervises housekeeping staff and seasonal employees as needed.
Works with the Director of Operations to develop and implement safety and risk management policies and practices.
Participates in and support organization-wide events and programs.
Promotes and support DelNature’s mission, values, goals, activities, and membership to a wide array of program audiences.
Schedule is primarily M-F. Required to have flexibility to work evenings and weekends, and in immediate-need situations.
Minimum Qualifications
Ten (10) years of experience in facilities and/or construction management with extensive knowledge of county and state code requirements and acceptable standards and practices for the building industry.
Experience developing and managing operational and capital budgets.
Experience managing and negotiating contracts and contractors, procuring services and supplies, and overseeing major capital projects.
Experience with project management/coordination.
Proficiency using Microsoft Office software required; experience using Smartsheet project management software helpful.
Ability to perform minor repairs and troubleshoot other facility needs as they arise.
Effective at record-keeping and document management.
Ability to handle multiple priorities, duties, jobs/projects, and responsibilities in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
Flexibility and adaptability to work a schedule that meets the needs of the sites.
Punctuality, dependability, strong communication skills; ability to work effectively as part of a team and to consistently interact in a positive and professional manner.
Willingness to learn new skills and share knowledge with others.
Demonstrated ability of problem solving, critical thinking, and decision-making.
Flexibility to perform additional duties as assigned.
Work Environment and Physical Demands for Director of Facilities The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The employee frequently is required to sit and reach and must be able to move around the work environment.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and be able to carry, move and set up necessary supplies and equipment.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Ability to work in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings, weather, and terrains.
Salary and Benefits $60,000 annually. Salary commensurate with experience. Eligible for full benefits package including health, dental, vision and retirement. Director of Facilities Applicants Must Submit
