Park Naturalist

Arlington County Government; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits package

Job summary

The Arlington County Government's Parks and Natural Resources Division is hiring a Park Naturalist to work at Gulf Branch Nature Center. You will plan, schedule, and lead environmental education programs, festivals, and volunteer events for diverse audiences.

This full-time role requires a Bachelor's in a related field and experience in park programming, with First Aid/CPR/AED certifications or ability to obtain soon after hire.

Qualifications

• Plan, schedule, and run programs, festivals, and volunteer events to promote environmental conservation and stewardship.
• Must possess First Aid, CPR, and AED Certifications or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
• Valid driver license or ability to perform duties at multiple sites; background checks may be required.
• Complete application must include a resume highlighting alignment with qualifications for this position.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and run programs, festivals, and volunteer events for diverse audiences.
• Promote environmental conservation and stewardship across County communities.

Skills

Park programming

Natural resource management

Natural history research

Exhibit design

Education

Bachelor's Degree in natural resource management, park management and interpretation, botany, zoology, or related field

Job description

Did you know the County of Arlington is highly diverse, with over 100 languages spoken in the County? Do you want to work within Arlington’s diverse communities? Are you passionate about the environment, conservation, and teaching?

The Parks and Natural Resources Division in the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking a Park Naturalist . The successful candidate will be a part of the team at Gulf Branch Nature Center. This position will plan, schedule, and run programs and festivals and volunteer events throughout the County for diverse audiences to promote environmental conservation and stewardship.

• Bachelor's Degree in natural resource management, park management and interpretation, botany, zoology, or related field; and
• Some experience in park programming, natural resource management, natural history research, and exhibit construction and design.

Substitution: Additional qualifying experience can be substituted for the educational requirement.

Desirables

• Design and presentation of nature programs for diverse audiences;
• Working at a nature center, environmental education center, wildlife center, or park visitor center;
• Course work or experience with plants, gardening native plants, or wildlife common to the Mid-Atlantic region;
• Marketing and using social media;
• Bilingual (English/Spanish);
• Wildlife rehabilitation certification or animal care experience.

Special Requirements

• A complete application will include an attached resume which highlights how your background and experience align with the qualifications for this position.
• Must possess First Aid, CPR, and AED Certifications or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
• A pre‑employment criminal records check will be conducted. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
• Must possess a valid driver license, or the applicant must have the ability to perform duties at locations other than the primary worksite. If the applicant has a license, they must authorize Arlington County to obtain or provide a copy of their official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record.

Physical Requirements

• Walk for extended periods, including while leading hikes.
• Perform manual tasks, including lifting and moving tables, boxes, equipment, and other materials.
• Freq uently stoop, bend, kneel, dig, and perform other physical activities associated with gardening, outdoor work, and caring for our animal collection.
• Work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions.

Additional Information

Work Schedule : Primary hours are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, and 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday. During the winter months (November through March), the Friday and Saturday schedule shifts to 10:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m. on Fridays and 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Employees will be assigned to the Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 Military Road, but will also work at other sites throughout the County.

As an Employer of Choice, Arlington County offers a generous benefits package.

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs.