Urban Nature Center & Environmental Research Lead

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission - PGC Parks and Recreation; Mount Rainier (MD); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission - PGC Parks and Recreation invites applications for a Natural Resource Specialist III. The role provides county-wide environmental research and education programming, leading BioBlitzes, studies, and outreach across Prince George’s County.

The position also oversees an urban nature center, including visitor services, exhibits, staff supervision, budget and contract management, and volunteer coordination.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in research practices.
• Educational program development experience.
• Staff management of both career and non-career staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and oversee countywide environmental and natural resource research initiatives.
• Design and implement studies related to ecology, wildlife, habitat management, water quality, forestry, and conservation planning.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data to support decision-making and policy development.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, recommendations, and grant proposals based on research findings.
• Maintain partnerships with universities, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Monitor emerging environmental trends, regulations, and best practices affecting county natural resources.
• Provide expertise and recommendations to County leadership regarding conservation initiatives and environmental programs.
• Identify and pursue grant funding opportunities to support research, education, and conservation efforts.
• Direct all aspects of Nature Center operations, including visitor services, exhibits, educational programming, and facility management.
• Develop and implement strategic plans, goals, and performance measures for Nature Center programs and activities.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate full-time, part-time, seasonal staff, interns, and volunteers.
• Ensure facilities, exhibits, grounds, and natural areas are maintained in a safe, attractive, and educational manner.
• Coordinate educational programs, interpretive services, special events, workshops, and outreach activities for diverse audiences.
• Manage the Nature Center budget, purchasing activities, contracts, and operational resources.
• Promote visitation and community engagement through partnerships, marketing efforts, and public outreach initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and operational regulations.
• Serve as a public representative for the County's environmental education and conservation initiatives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with schools, community groups, environmental organizations, and local stakeholders.
• Create opportunities for citizen science, volunteer participation, and community-based research projects.
• Deliver presentations and educational programs to residents, elected officials, and professional organizations.
• Foster environmental stewardship through innovative educational and interpretive programming.

Skills

Research methods

Educational program development

Staff management

Job description

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission - PGC Parks and Recreation invites applications for a Natural Resource Specialist III. The role provides county-wide environmental research and education programming, leading BioBlitzes, studies, and outreach across Prince George’s County.

The position also oversees an urban nature center, including visitor services, exhibits, staff supervision, budget and contract management, and volunteer coordination.