State Parks - Wilderness Road State Park - Park Naturalist - Open Until Filled

About the Role

Join Our Team at the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation! The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hiring! Join us in preserving what people care about most – access to the outdoors, natural habitats, open spaces, clean water, and safe infrastructure. Wilderness Road State Park is accepting applications for a Park Naturalist position.

Responsibilities

• Developing, planning, and implementing interpretive programs and activities, including guided hikes, campfires, children’s programs, self-guided activities, and lessons/workshops on other environmental, cultural, and/or historical topics.
• Responsible for operating and maintaining the park’s Nature Center exhibits, the upkeep of interpretive equipment, and kiosks.
• Creating flyers, literature, assisting park visitors using professional customer service techniques, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must have the ability to organize and conduct natural, historical, and cultural programs for the public.
• Strong and effective communication skills are essential.
• Successful applicants will be capable of working both independently and harmoniously as part of a team.
• Must be comfortable working outdoors.
• Must be at least 17 years old.
• Have a valid driver's license.
• Must be willing to work evening shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Additional Considerations

Foundational knowledge of Virginia history, conservation ecology, and regional flora and fauna is highly desired. Experience in education, customer service, and/or a degree in parks and recreation or related field preferred.

Special Requirements

• Background Check: Employment in all Virginia State Parks positions is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
• Employment Eligibility: Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.
• Driver’s License Requirement: A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.

Work Requirements: Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for Commonwealth of Virginia benefits (health care, paid leave, etc.) and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30. Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Park experience are encouraged to apply.

Hourly Range: $14.00 – $16.50 per hour

Location: Wilderness Road State Park, Ewing, Virginia

Application Instructions: Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date. Generally, applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications (Word) for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.

For additional information on these openings, contact hr@dcr.virginia.gov.