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Home » Job openings at DCR
DCR employees
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DCR employees
DCR employees

Job openings at DCR

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 for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.

Full-time (salaried) employment offers

  • A choice of healthcare plans.
  • Vacation, family, personal and sick leave.
  • A retirement plan.
  • A sickness and disability plan.
  • Employer-paid life insurance.
  • Deferred compensation with employer match.

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.

Job openings at DCR

Education Support Specialist I

Interpretive River Guide

Open Until Filled

State Parks - James River State Park

Apply Now

Hourly Rate: $15.00

Join Our Team at the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation! 

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hiring! Join us in preserving what people care about most – access to the outdoors, natural habitats, open spaces, clean water, and safe infrastructure.

James River State Park is accepting applications for the Interpretive River Guide position.

Job Summary:

The Interpretive River Guide will lead canoe trips, providing engaging and educational experiences for guests on the James River. The guide will be responsible for ensuring the safety of participants, offering interpretive information about the river’s natural and cultural history, and ensuring the smooth operation of each program. Programs may include, but are not limited to, canoe tours, tubing trips, and snorkeling. Duties include managing guest check-ins, assisting with registration, ensuring proper safety equipment, and providing transportation via shuttle. The ideal candidate will be able to effectively prioritize tasks, communicate clearly, and maintain a positive, professional attitude while interacting with the public, staff, and volunteers. When not conducting programs, the selected candidate will assist with maintaining and upkeep of all interpretive exhibits, equipment, and kiosks. The candidate may be required to perform park related duties as needed during emergencies, as well as other duties as assigned. Training will be provided. This is a seasonal position with the majority of hours focused from April to October.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lead interpretive river programs such as canoe tours, tubing trips, and snorkeling, providing engaging and educational experiences for guests.
  • Ensure participant safety and program readiness, including managing guest check-ins, assisting with registration, and verifying proper safety equipment.
  • Provide interpretive information about the James River’s natural and cultural history during guided trips and related programs.
  • Assist park guests while providing excellent customer service and keep accurate records for sales, visitation, and programs.
  • Must have the ability to work outdoors in all types of weather, stand for long periods, traverse uneven ground, and carry, pull, and/or lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License and reliable transportation.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must be willing to work shift work, weekends, and holidays, including occasional evening shifts.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ability to interact with the public and provide informative and engaging talks.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to organize and conduct nature, culture, and history programs for all ages.

Additional Considerations:

  • Knowledge of river ecosystems, local history, and interpretive techniques.
  • Experience in natural and/or historical interpretation to include knowledge of Virginia history; understanding of ecology and familiarity with the area's flora and fauna.
  • Experience as a river guide or in an outdoor recreational setting is a plus.
  • Experience with canoeing, tubing, snorkeling, water safety protocols, and watercraft maintenance.

Special Instructions:

  • Background Check: Employment in all Virginia State Parks positions is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
  • Employment Eligibility: Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.
  • Driver’s License Requirement: A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.
  • Work Requirements: Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.

Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Parks Service experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT 

DCR employees are encouraged to visit Virginia State Parks! Check out our employee discounts.

  • 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.

Apply Now

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
600 East Main Street, 24th floor | Richmond, VA 23219-2094 | 804-786-6124
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