Senior Park Naturalist (11533, Grade 18)

The Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking an experienced naturalist or environmental education coordinator to develop, coordinate, market, and conduct environmental education programs, lead part time naturalist staff and volunteers, conduct conservation projects, assist with recreational activities, and support Visitors Center services. This position will be based out of Patuxent River Park (PRP), an 8,000 acre collection of riverfront park properties. The PRP headquarters is located at Jug Bay Natural Area in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. This is a full time, career position with benefits. The work schedule is Tuesday – Saturday and 40 hours a week.

Under general direction, the hired candidate applies specialized knowledge of natural, life, and physical sciences to develop and present public programs such as boat tours, guided hikes, fish seining, and more. This position is expected to work closely with local public, private, and homeschool groups, specialty groups such as bird clubs and scout, other Department units, and external partners. Strong organization and communication skills are essential. Must be able to work in a team environment in a supportive and collaborative way.

1. Develop, market, coordinate, and conduct education programs onsite and offsite relating to natural and cultural history such as wetland ecology, wildlife, water quality, climate change, and human impacts on the Patuxent River. Record and analyze program data. Adjust programs and marketing efforts as needed.
2. Develop and maintain strong relationships with various audiences including teachers, home-school groups, scout leaders, specialty groups including seniors and different clubs, and community members as well as working with different partners such as non-profit organizations and local, state, and federal agencies such as the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
3. Oversee several part time education staff and volunteers. Provide training, delegate assignments, and give feedback on performance to supervisor.
4. Conduct on-site conservation or research projects that can also serve as programming opportunities
5. Work closely with supervisor to assist with park operations and management as needed.
6. Operate a full range of vehicles and equipment including trucks, buses, UTVs, pontoon boats, power tools, etc. Must obtain boater’s safety license within the first six months of hire.
7. Attend and serve on various boards, committees, and task forces as needed
8. Become proficient with Department software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, RecTrac, and Lawson
9. Wear assigned uniform and follow dress code at all times
10. Provide excellent customer service.
11. Serve as Manager On Duty as needed

WORKING CONDITIONS

Works in indoor and outdoor settings; works scheduled weekends, occasionally works early mornings and evenings; and exposed to inclement weather and outdoor hazards. Must be able to lift items up to 50lbs such as kayaks. Operates vehicles with trailers and motorized boats. Telework is not available for this position. This position works independently and in team settings occasionally serving as an assignment lead.

1. Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science or any related field.
2. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total four (4) years.
3. Depending on area of assignment, a 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.
4. Pass Commission medical examination.

Classification Specification Senior Park Naturalist

May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing.

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 ofrace, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor.

Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or301-454-1411(Maryland Relay 7-1-1)

M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.