State Parks - Kiptopeke State Park - Education Support Specialist I - Open Until Filled

Hourly Rate: $14.00

About the role

Join the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) in preserving what people care about most – access for outdoor recreation, strengthening communities’ flood resilience, and protecting what Virginians care about: clean water, parks, natural habitat, and open space. Kiptopeke State Park is accepting applications for the Education Support Specialist I position.

Seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic individual to deliver meaningful educational experiences for park visitors by interpreting the significance of the park’s natural, historical, and cultural resources. This position supports the development and presentation of interpretive programs and educational outreach, including roving engagement throughout the park and communication with guests, schools, scout groups, and homeschool organizations.

Responsibilities

• Provide meaningful educational opportunities and experiences for park guests.
• Provide information to visitors about the history of the park and its natural, cultural, and historic resources.
• Take care of park animals, update interpretive kiosks throughout the park, lead public programs, set up monthly displays, and provide quality customer service.
• Assist Interpreters with school groups, educational programs, fairs, and park events.
• Can be trained to lead monthly canoe tours and guided hikes.

Requirements

• Ability to research additional topics to lead successful programs.
• Must be willing to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Must be able to communicate verbally with a wide range of people, especially children.
• Must be willing to work weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Must be able to work with others in a team environment and with park guests.
• Possess knowledge of the natural environment (preferred).
• A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.

Additional Considerations

• Employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
• Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form; DCR participates in E-Verify.
• Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.

Benefits

DCR employees receive the following discounts at Virginia State Parks:

• Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
• Free camping outside of the Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day period in sites designed for up to six people.
• Free camping Sunday night through Thursday night (excluding the night before a holiday) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Fifty percent discount on cabins (up to 3 bedrooms) outside of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, for a maximum of 14 nights (two-night minimum stay required).
• Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts are included; one-night yurt stays receive a 25% discount.

DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service) are entitled to overnight facility discounts.