Park Naturalist - Sustainability Specialist (15084, Grade 24)

The Maryland National Capital Park & Planning Commission seeks a Park Naturalist - Sustainability Specialist to develop and lead environmental education programs at the Black Hill Discovery Center. Responsibilities include delivering interpretive programs, creating educational content on climate change, and maintaining native plant gardens. A Bachelor's degree in a related field and relevant experience are required. This is a full-time position based in Boyds, MD.
About the position

The Park Naturalist - Sustainability Specialist is responsible for developing and leading environmental education programs focused on sustainability and climate change at the Black Hill Discovery Center and SEED Classroom. This full-time position involves engaging with diverse audiences, from toddlers to seniors, to promote environmental stewardship and community involvement through nature-based programs.

Responsibilities
• Deliver a variety of interpretive programs and events at Black Hill Discovery Center, including kayaking, pontoon boat, preschool, field trip, and summer camp programs.
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• Create and implement educational programming on climate change, sustainability, and local natural resources.
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• Develop new school field trip programs aligned with Montgomery County Public Schools' curriculum.
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• Establish relationships with local school administrators and teachers to support educational initiatives.
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• Plan and maintain native plant gardens and nature play spaces around the SEED Classroom.
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• Coordinate with volunteers for garden maintenance and invasive plant removal.
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• Schedule and facilitate events at the SEED Classroom, ensuring proper setup and safety.
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• Communicate effectively with visitors, program participants, and co-workers, providing exemplary customer service.

Requirements
• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science, or a related field.
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• Two years of progressively responsible park naturalist experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience totaling six years.
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• Valid driver's license without restrictions that could limit driving duties.
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• Ability to pass a Commission medical examination.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience teaching environmental science to middle and high school students.
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• Experience creating programs about climate change.
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• Knowledge of gardening best practices and identification of native, non-native, and invasive plants in Montgomery County, MD.
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• Ability to communicate in one of Montgomery County's common languages (Spanish, Chinese, African Languages, Korean, Vietnamese, French, Persian).

Benefits
• Very competitive and flexible benefits programs available.