Job openings at DCR

If you feel like saving the world, you belong 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 II

Interpretive Ranger

Open Until Filled

State Parks - Machicomoco State Park

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Hourly Range: $15.00 to $16.50 per hour

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.

Machicomoco State Park is accepting applications for the Interpretive Ranger position.

Job Summary:

This position supports DCR’s organizational objectives by developing, planning, and delivering place-based learning programs for visitors and groups. The role includes offering, leading, or co-leading special interpretive programs and events which may take place across the park’s grounds, waters, facilities, historical structures, exhibits, and trails, as well as through off-site public outreach and educational events. The position also provides meaningful educational opportunities for park guests by interpreting the significance of the park’s natural, historical, and cultural resources.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Plan and implement a strategy for the park’s social media content.
Design, facilitate, evaluate, and improve a wide array of DCR mission based interpretive, naturalist, and educational programming.
Develop workshops, demonstrations, and programming rooted in hands-on science and curriculum requirements to support environmental education.
Promote and advertise programming and events.
Design brochures and flyers for the park.
Research relevant park information and topics.
Perform roving and point of duty interpretation in the park.
Assist the Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience with administrative interpretive/educational tasks such as recording monthly interpretive numbers, entering data into the interpretive tracker, answering/returning phone calls, and updating kiosks throughout the park.
Assist the Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience with volunteer coordination.
Assist the Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience with the training of new interpreters.
Available to work various shifts including holidays and weekends.
Interpreters assist with school groups, educational programs, fairs, and park events, and can be trained to lead kayak and canoe tours, and guided hikes.
Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Ability to organize and conduct nature, culture, and history programs and events for all ages.
Strong verbal and written communication skills to be able to respond to emails, phone calls, and interact with the public professionally.
Excellent customer service skills.
Experience marketing, advertising, and promoting programs and special events.
Professional experience with social media.

Additional Considerations:

Experience or training in biology, history, parks and recreation, or wildlife studies.
Experience in natural or historical interpretation.
Experience using Canva, Flickr, and Microsoft 365.
Holds NAI certification, American Red Cross CPR/AED for professional rescuers and first aid certification.

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.

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