Senior Park Naturalist

Organization

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission

Job Posted

April 21, 2026

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Nicole Patterson

Contact Email

nicole.patterson@pgparks.com

Contact Phone

3016278518

Deadline to Apply

Location

Upper Marlboro, MD
United States
Turn your passion for nature into a career on the river. Patuxent River Park seeks an experienced naturalist to lead engaging environmental education programs, mentor staff and volunteers, and support conservation across 8,000 acres of stunning riverfront landscapes. From boat tours and guided hikes to hands‑on research and community partnerships, you’ll connect diverse audiences with the natural and cultural history of the Patuxent. This full‑time position offers benefits, impact, and the chance to inspire stewardship every day.

Summary

The Senior Park Naturalist at Patuxent River Park is a full-time, career position with benefits, based at the Jug Bay Natural Area in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. This role is responsible for planning, marketing, coordinating, and delivering high-quality environmental education programs that highlight the natural and cultural history of the Patuxent River, including topics such as wetland ecology, wildlife, water quality, climate change, and human impacts. Programs are offered both on-site and off-site and may include guided hikes, boat tours, fish seining, and other hands-on experiences for schools, homeschool groups, scouts, specialty clubs, seniors, and the general public.

The position also oversees part-time education staff and volunteers by providing training, assigning work, and contributing to performance feedback. The Senior Park Naturalist conducts conservation or research projects that may double as educational opportunities, builds strong partnerships with community groups and government agencies, and assists with park operations and visitor center services. The role requires strong communication, organization, teamwork, and customer service skills, as well as the ability to work outdoors, operate vehicles and boats, lift equipment, and work weekends and variable hours.

Apply here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mncppc/jobs/5297439/senior-park-naturalist-11533-grade-18

Compensation Information

$54,998.00 - $97,403.00 Annually

This position includes a strong benefits package with pension retirement, health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage, long‑term disability and life insurance, and paid leave. Employees receive annual, sick, personal leave and holidays, plus access to a sick leave bank. Additional benefits include optional retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, wellness and work‑life programs, employee assistance services, legal services, and credit union membership.