Senior Park Naturalist

Description
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.   

Examples of Important Duties
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.
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.  
Oversee several part time education staff and volunteers.  Provide training, delegate assignments, and give feedback on performance to supervisor.  
Conduct on-site conservation or research projects that can also serve as programming opportunities
Work closely with supervisor to assist with park operations and management as needed.
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.
Attend and serve on various boards, committees, and task forces as needed
Become proficient with Department software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, RecTrac, and Lawson
Wear assigned uniform and follow dress code at all times
Provide excellent customer service.
 

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science or any related field.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total four (4) years.
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.
Pass Commission medical examination.