Principal Park Naturalist (11533, Grade 22)

The Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking an experienced naturalist to develop, coordinate, and lead formal and informal environmental education programs, supervise part time naturalist staff and volunteers, conduct conservation projects, assist with recreational activities, and support Visitors Center services. This position is 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 knowledge of natural resources, wetland ecology, wildlife management, and environmental sciences to develop and present interpretative, recreational, and education programs to the public. These programs typically require extensive knowledge on a specific subject such as freshwater riverine ecosystems, the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and the history and ecology of the Patuxent River; or cover a broader theme such as general ecology, local flora and fauna, wetlands, water quality, and climate change. This position will serve as the primary education coordinator for the park and requires strong organizational, planning, and communication skills for complex programs. This position may also plan and complete special projects or events that involve considerable coordination with other entities within or outside the Department including Prince George’s County Public Schools and Maryland Department of Natural Resources. As a specialist, the Principal Park Naturalist should become an authority in a natural field relevant to their work site; most often through original research and field studies. A Principal Park Naturalist provides leadership and supervision to other staff in developing, training, and presenting programs, activities, and special events. This position receives assignments on a project basis, often several months in duration, and proceed independently to complete all aspects of the assignment while resolving most problems

1. Develop, market, coordinate, and conduct specialized programs and activities that will be held at Patuxent River Park or virtually relating to natural and cultural history such as wetland ecology, local flora and fauna, water quality, climate change, and human impacts on the Patuxent River. Record and analyze program data. Adjust programs and marketing as needed.
2. Develop and maintain positive 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 as non-profit organizations and local, state, and federal agencies such the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
3. Lead several part time education staff and volunteers. Provide training, delegate assignments, and give feedback on performance. Conduct annual evaluations of part time staff with input from the facility director.
4. Coordinate and plan on-site scientific projects and activities for participants of all ages.
5. Work closely with the PRP facility director to assist with operations and management as needed.
6. Serve as outreach coordinator for PRP. Develop marketing materials, social media posts, and maintain PRP webpages.
7. Attend and serve on boards, committees, and task forces as needed
8. Operate a full range of vehicles and equipment including trucks, buses, UTVs, pontoon and small boats, power tools, etc.
9. Become proficient with Department software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, RecTrac, and Lawson
10. Wear assigned uniform and follow dress code at all times
11. Follow Department procurement policies. Acquire bids and quotes to procure materials and services as needed.
12. Provide excellent customer service
13. Serve as Manager On Duty as needed

Important worker characteristics
Expert knowledge of a specialty area or extensive knowledge of a natural resources subject matter and related natural, life, or physical sciences involved in the subject.

Good knowledge of:

1. Natural, life, and physical science;
2. environmental science;
3. principles and practices of interpreting natural and cultural history to the public both in person and virtually;
4. effective instruction, training, and supervision methods and techniques;
5. natural resources management;
6. various software programs 
7. CPR and First Aid; 
8. Commission organization, policies, and procedures (developed primarily after employment)

Ability to:
1) effectively interpret expert knowledge of a subject matter or area to a variety of audiences; 2) coordinate complex programs and activities into a lively park operating schedule
3) provide technical resources and program leadership to different community groups, local, state, and federal entities;
4) plan, develop, market, and present programs of large and extensive scope;
5) effectively direct and supervise part time staff and volunteers;
6) practice strong oral and written communications to supervisor, coworkers, volunteers, and members of the public;
7) write clearly, effectively, and concisely
8) prioritize work efficiently and timely to meet target dates.

Working conditions
Works in indoor and outdoor settings; works scheduled weekends, evenings, and holidays; and exposed to inclement weather and outdoor hazards.

1. Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science, or any related field.
2. Two (2) years of progressively responsible park naturalist experience.
3. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total six (6) years.
4. 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.
5. Pass Commission medical examination.

Classification/Specification- Principal Park Naturalist

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.
 
Person(s) hired for this position must provide proof of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (with limited religious or medical exceptions).  

Salary : $56,769 - $100,538