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Department of Conservation and Recreation
DCR is looking for talented people to fill positions listed below. Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date.
Generally applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications (Word) for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.
Certain positions require a criminal background check, a conflict of interest financial statement or both. Law-enforcement positions require a fingerprint-based FBI investigation. DCR is an EEO/AA/ADA Employer.
For seasonal and hourly-wage positions at state parks, contact the particular park for details.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, all new hires must complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Executive branch agencies are required to use the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
For additional information on these openings, contact hr@dcr.virginia.gov. Find positions available throughout Virginia at Virginia Jobs.
Hourly Rate: $17.00 per hour
Job Duties:
The position of Interpretive Ranger provides meaningful educational opportunities and experiences for park guests by interpreting the significance of the park's natural, historical, and cultural resources. Interpretive Rangers are responsible for working as a team with the Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience in the daily planning and execution of the Interpretive Department at First Landing State Park. Primarily, this includes conducting onsite interpretive programs (lessons) and community outreach. General departmental duties include regular correspondence with the general public, schools, scout groups, other park employees, etc. about programming, development of the interpretive program schedule, and planning of Junior Ranger Summer Camp. Interpretive Rangers also research and design program opportunities, write and review park literature, and design flyers and other marketing materials. The position is also responsible for maintaining the Discovery Room and Chesapeake Bay Lab interpretive areas and their rotating themed content. Each of these areas features live animal exhibits (primarily reptiles, amphibians, and fish), whose care is the responsibility of the Interpretive Department. Live animal welfare duties include feeding, cleaning, socialization, and general upkeep of health for all exhibit animals, as well as the maintenance of daily care logs. Other duties include maintaining all interpretive resources and ensuring they are in good working order, keeping accurate records, working with other local organizations to diversify programs/guest experiences, attending professional development workshops, trainings, and seminars, and assisting park visitors using good customer service techniques.
Minimum Qualifications:
Additional Considerations:
Special Requirements:
The Interpretive Ranger may be required to perform other park-related duties during emergencies or as needed. This position requires shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and have reliable transportation to the job.
Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.
A valid State Driver's License is required to operate a state vehicle or if operating a personal vehicle while conducting business on behalf of the agency.
DCR is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the highest ideals of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that our greatest strength lies in the individual differences, experiences, and skillsets that our employees bring to the table. Because of this, we strongly encourage applications from all walks of life, and we welcome all contributions in terms of age, beliefs, color, culture, disability, education, ethnicity, gender identity/expression, language, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and veteran’s status.
Selected candidate(s) will need to complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.
Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Service experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT
Employment in all positions within the Virginia State Parks is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check including a criminal history record check.
DCR provides the opportunity for wage employees to participate in tax deferred compensation programs, supplemental disability insurances, and supplemental retirement accounts made available through the Commonwealth’s provider network at the employee’s expense. As an employee of State Parks, you will also receive: Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks. DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service), are entitled to overnight facility discounts such as: Free camping outside of the Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day period in sites designed for up to six people. Free camping Sunday night through Thursday night (excluding the night prior to a holiday) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Fifty percent discount on cabins (up to 3 bedrooms) outside of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, for a maximum of 14 nights. All reservations require a two-night minimum. Bunkhouses, camping cabins and yurts are included; one night yurt stays only receive a 25% discount.
