Principal Park Naturalist

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.

How to apply:

Apply here