Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director

Nature & History Jobs

Department Resources

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Virginia Values Veterans (V3) logoFairfax County Park Authority is a proud partner in the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) -certified organization.

The Fairfax County Park Authority serves the community through nature and culture at nine diverse parks. Build your career through education and stewardship of our natural and cultural resources at a nature center, historic site, working historic farm or public garden.

The employment opportunities are as varied as the resources we protect. The roles include visitor services, program leadership, resource management and protection, and building and grounds maintenance. At all levels of the organization from manager to intern, the experience of the visitor is key. Join our teams to share your passion for nature, history, farming or gardening as an employee with the Fairfax County Park Authority.

View our open positions below.

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To apply for open part-time positions, please complete the online application.

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Frying Pan Farm Park

Position Title: Maintenance Worker
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA 
Hours: Approximately 30 hours per week, 4 days. Days and hours vary and include nights, weekends, and holidays.
Salary: $15-18.40/hour based on experience.   

Overview: Work on one of the last working farms in Fairfax County! Frying Pan Farm Park is searching for Maintenance Workers to join their team. 

Duties: 

  • Performs routine maintenance, cleaning, and groundskeeping tasks.
  • Mows, string trims, rakes, waters, and weeds the grounds at Frying Pan.
  • Sweeps, mops, and disinfects floors in buildings.
  • Cleans and disinfects site restrooms, to include walls, floors, and bathroom fixtures.
  • Empties trash receptacles and picks up litter throughout the park.
  • Assists with equestrian activities, i.e.: cleaning horse stalls and helping with shows.  Light carpentry and fence repairs.
  • Assist with event prep, set-up and disassembly.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience maintaining buildings and grounds preferred.
  • Must be eligible to work in Virginia, possess a Social Security card, and have access to reliable transportation.
  • Must be physically able to lift 50 pounds and able to conduct basic conversation in English.
  • Self-motivated.

To Apply: Send resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov
 

Necessary Special Requirements: 

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and driver’s license check to the satisfaction of the employer.  

Note: *Part-time benefits eligible positions are scheduled to work a minimum 1,040 hours and no more than a maximum of 1,560 hours in a calendar year. This position is eligible to receive limited benefits, including Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance Coverage, Flexible Spending Program, and Deferred Compensation.

Applicant evaluation will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled. 

If you have any questions, please email teresa.reynolds@fairfaxcounty.gov  or visit us online.
 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Position Title: Maintenance Custodial Worker
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA
Hours: 20 hours a week, 3-4 days per week; days vary and include both weekdays, weekends and holidays
Salary: $13.00-$15.00 per hour

Overview: Work on one of the last working farms in Fairfax County! This is a great fit for a second job or to work around a school schedule.

Duties: 

  • Frying Pan Farm Park is a diverse 135-acre park and this position will include working indoors and outdoors.
  • Duties include cleaning classrooms and restrooms, trash removal, unlocking and locking building for user groups, patrolling park grounds, responding to staff and visitor requests, supporting evening rental staff, and other custodian duties.   
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license.
  • Be able to work outdoors in all weather, traverse uneven ground, lift up to 50 pounds and perform general maintenance and custodial work.
  • Must be personable, punctual, dependable and capable of working alone.

To Apply: Submit your resume to teresa.reynolds@fairfaxcounty.gov  or by mail to: 2709 West Ox Rd. Herndon VA. 20171.

Necessary Special Requirements:

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and driver’s license check to the satisfaction of the employer. First Aid and CPR/AED certification (offered through Fairfax County) must be completed within 60 days of hire.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or inter-view processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  
 

Position Title: Farmhand (Part-time, Benefits Eligible) 
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA
Hours: This position would start in July and work a minimum of 32 hours a week, to include some weekend days. Most hours fall between 7am and 6pm.  
Salary: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour. 
 

Overview: Work on one of the last working farms in Fairfax County! The Farmhand position works closely with the farm manager and other staff to care for farm animals and complete farm chores.

Duties: 

  • Daily chores with livestock include feeding, watering, milking, cleaning stalls, light animal care, and various farm chores.
  • Crop field operations include hay making, small grains and corn production.
  • Operating a tractor while doing farm chores and giving site tours to visitors.
  • The farm is open to the public and interaction with the visitors is an important aspect of the job.
  • Attend offsite outreach and help with special events on site.
  • Farm maintenance includes fence repair and mowing as needed.
  • Supervision of youth volunteers and assisting in other areas of the park as needed.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Have experience operating tractors and other equipment.
  • Experience working with/on crop fields.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • First Aid and CPR certification.
  • Experience working on a farm with livestock, equipment operations, as well as working with the public. 

To Apply: Please send your resume to Eliott.Hamblin@fairfaxcounty.gov and include the title of the job you are applying for in the subject. 

Note: * This position may not exceed 1560 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are eligible for benefits but are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Position Title: Historic Farm Educator 
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, Va 20171
Hours: Year-Round, 25-35 hours per week, which includes weekdays, weekends and some evening hours
Salary: $18.50-$21.00/ hour dependent on experience. Limited benefits are available. *
 

Overview: Make a difference by connecting the public to Frying Pan Farm Park through engaging interpretive and educational programs. Expand your knowledge of farming, rural community life, natural resources, and local history while helping visitors discover the historic treasures of this 135-acre park, featuring equestrian facilities, 70 acres of natural areas with a nature trail, 20 historic buildings, and a working educational farm. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop professional skills, engage with the community, and contribute as part of a dynamic and energetic team.

Duties:

  • Lead and develop interactive, hands‑on interpretive programs on topics including farming, agriculture, gardening, history, and nature. Audiences include school field trips, youth groups, families, adults, and summer camp participants.
  • Operate a tractor and wagon to provide interpretive wagon rides for school groups and the general public.
  • Research, create, and deliver formal and informal interpretive programs.
  • Support special events and outreach programs during weekdays and weekends.
  • Receive training in interpretive techniques.
  • Open, close, and provide general care for the historic site.
  • Complete administrative tasks such as scheduling and general office duties within the Interpretation Department.
  • Operate a point‑of‑sale system, follow cash‑handling procedures, and use recreation management software for class and program registration.
  • All other duties as assigned. 
     

Minimum Qualifications:

  • College degree or equivalent experience.
  • Experience programming for multiple age groups, including elementary‑aged children and adults.
  • Knowledge of nature and cultural resources.
  • Experience creating interpretive materials such as lesson plans, flyers, and signage.
  • Valid driver’s license and good driving record.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
     

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in natural, life, or physical sciences; natural history; education; or a closely related field.
  • At least six months of experience creating and presenting interpretive programs for children ages 2–12.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to respond effectively to public inquiries.
  • Experience working in a public park, operating park facilities, leading tours, and participating in outreach or promotional efforts.
  • Experience driving golf carts or utility vehicles; familiarity with public safety procedures; First Aid and CPR certification.
  • Experience leading groups and performing invasive plant management.
     

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift 40 pounds.
  • Ability to work outdoors in variable weather.
  • Availability to work evenings and weekends.
     

To Apply: Send resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Necessary Special Requirements: 
•    The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.  
 

Note: * This position may not exceed 1560 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are eligible for benefits but are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay. 

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Green Spring Gardens

Position Title: Part-time Gardner
Location: Green Spring Garden; 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA 22312
Hours: Year-round, part-time work Monday through Friday with some weekends and holidays re-quired. 
Salary: $17.44-$19.50 per hour, depending on experience and certifications.  

Overview: 
Green Spring Gardens is currently seeking an enthusiastic, self-driven individual to join our team as a Gardener! A Gardener performs all levels of garden and grounds maintenance required to maintain the highest aesthetic standards throughout the property.

Duties: 

  • Weeding and cleaning bedding areas
  • Watering as needed and directed
  • Mulching
  • Planting seasonal flowers and woody plants. Deadheading and cutting back plants as necessary
  • Pruning evergreen and deciduous shrubs and flowering trees
  • Propagation work to include cuttings, sowing seeds, potting up
  • Operating and maintaining equipment and vehicles safely
  • Working under the direction of full-time horticulturists
  • Directing the work of volunteers and summer interns

Minimum Qualifications:

  • College coursework in horticulture, botany, ecology or landscape design or Master Gardener certificate or work experience in public garden setting.
  • Basic gardening and garden maintenance skills are required but a passion for gardening is equally important.
  • Must be comfortable working outdoors in all types of weather, with exposure to insects, heat and cold. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Familiarity with tools, including pruners, saws, blowers, weeders and edgers. Experience working with volunteers.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certificate in landscape design or horticulture.
  • Knowledge of plants of the mid-Atlantic.
  • Basic gardening and garden maintenance skills are required but a passion for gardening is equally important.
  • Able to lead groups of volunteers in completing garden tasks.
  • Looking for a self-starter who can begin assignments without prompting and plan and organize work in the gardens.
  • Computer literacy in Microsoft Word and Outlook. 

To apply: Submit your resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.   

Necessary Special Requirements: 

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background, Child Protective Services Registry, driving record check to the satisfaction of the employer.

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

Huntley Meadows Park

Position Title: Customer Service Specialist
Location: Huntley Meadows Park 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22306. 
Hours: Year-round position. Average of 25-30 hours a week
Salary: $16.50 - $20.50 per hour

Overview: Huntley Meadows Park and Historic Huntley located in Alexandria, Virginia. Over 1500 acres of forest, meadow, and wetland habitat. 

Duties:

  • This is an opportunity to support operations at Huntley Meadows Park.
  • Looking for a part-time, year-round customer service specialist to support programs and events at the park via open channels of communication, assisting with field trip scheduling and supporting the Title I school program.
  • Other responsibilities include weekly cash reports, monthly visitation reports, maintaining training, and Naturalist in Charge/maintenance tasks.
  • Includes regular weekend hours.  
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: 

  • College degree or experience equivalent.
  • Experience and knowledge base regarding natural and cultural resources or willingness to learn.
  • Experience with cash handling and reporting.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word and PowerPoint programs.  
  • Must be available to work some evenings and weekends.   

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to deal effectively with citizen inquiries and questions.
  • Fully bilingual in English and Spanish.
  • Experience working in a public park and operating park facilities, buildings, etc.
  • Experience with outreach and promotion/advertising
  • Experience with first-aid, CPR and public safety issues.   

To Apply: Send resume to Gina.Sando@fairfaxcounty.gov

Necessary Special Requirements:

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.

Note: This position may not exceed 1,560 hours worked per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are eligible for limited employee benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage and for participation in flexible spending programs, but are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or in-terview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Riverbend Park

Position Title: Seasonal Interpretive Naturalist/Programmer
Location: Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: Hours vary by season and will include weekend and holiday work.

  • Spring, Fall: 15-20 hours per week, variable schedule
  • Summer: 30-40 hours per week on weekdays
  • Winter: 5-10 hours per week, variable schedule

Salary: $15.00 - $22.50 per hour

Overview: Share your passion for nature and the outdoors at Riverbend Park! Make a difference in your community by planning and designing interpretive programs in natural and cultural his-tory.

Duties: 

  • Plan, design, and implement interpretive programs in natural and cultural history and science topics for patrons of the park.
  • Programs can include: school groups, scout groups, general public, thematic class series, birth-day parties, camps, events and special request programs.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to the public.
  • Provides leadership and ensures the safety of park patrons and campers.
  • Communicates effectively with staff and patrons of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Additional duties may include front desk, administrative work, animal care and other variable jobs.   
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an associate's degree in natural, life, or physical sciences, natural history, education or closely related field and 1 year of experi-ence presenting interpretive programs or teaching children.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • CPR, First Aid & AED certified or able to obtain certification within 2 weeks of employment.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Strong interest in outdoor or environmental education or interpretation and resource stewardship and conservation.
  • Experience working with children in an outdoor camp or educational setting for 2 or more years.
  • Pursuing a degree in the natural or environmental sciences, parks, recreation and leisure ser-vices, or education.
  • Bilingual. Capable of driving a 7-passenger (non-CDL) van and have a good driving record.
  • Have valid VA or MD powerboat license and experience operating a motorboat.
  • Trailering experience with a motor-vehicle.


To Apply: Submit a resume and include two references.  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If selected, you will be notified of additional procedures to begin employment. Interested candidates should submit to Casey Tinius, Senior Interpreter, Riverbend Park by email to Casey.Tinius@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Necessary Special Requirements:

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer, including fingerprinting, attend mandatory training, possess current or acquire first aid and CPR certifications before the start of camps, and have never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor related to abuse, neglect, exploitation or other barrier crimes as listed on the Sworn Disclosure Statement of the Criminal Record Check.
  • Valid Driver’s License.
  • CPR/ First Aid/AED certification (within 90 days of employment) 

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  
 

Position Title: Kayaking Instructor 
Location: Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: May through mid-October. Variable schedule may include Weekdays and weekends.
Salary: $24.00 - $35.00 per hour

Overview: Share your passion for nature and the outdoors at Riverbend Park! Make a difference in your community by instructing Kayaking lessons to participants of all ages and abilities.

Duties:

  • Instructor will teach, evaluate, and provide feedback on paddling and safety skills for participants of all ages and abilities.
  • Provide outstanding, safe, and educational experience to participant’s on-land and water.
  • Monitor paddling environment conditions for the safety of participants, staff, and other water users.
  • Follow program outlines for expectations and outcomes.
  • Prepare and inspect personal and group equipment, before and after use.
  • Accurately document classes, organize class related paperwork and incidents reports.
  • Provide resource interpretation and knowledge of the local area.
  • Maintain strong communication with park staff, recreation programs manager and park users.
  • Must possess excellent customer service skills.
  • Other duties as agreed upon.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years (minimum age) or older.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Valid driver’s license with good driving record.
  • CPR/ First Aid and AED.
  • Able to lift 75 lbs independently.
  • 2+ years kayaking, canoeing, or stand up paddleboarding in a river venue.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • ACA Level 2-River Kayak Instructor or equivalent, Boy Scouts of America Merit Badge counselor, Freshwater fishing experience, Wilderness First Aid or Responder.
  • Knowledge of local natural and environmental history.
  • Experience driving large vehicles with a trailer.

To Apply: Send resume and include three personal references to Andrew Wilk: Andrew.Wilk@fairfaxcounty.gov. Questions, please email or call 703-759-9018. Applications will be reviewed and considered as received.

Necessary Special Requirements:

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  
 

Position Title: Natural Resource/Maintenance Staff
Location: Riverbend Park, 8748 Potomac Hills St, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: Hours vary and will include weekend and holiday work. 
Morning and/or evening work required. 
Schedule is 20-25 hours/week pending on season.  
This position begins in March of 2026.
Salary: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour, depending on experience

Overview: Riverbend Park is a fun, high-energy park with great staff and a great working atmosphere! Benefits of working at Riverbend Park include working at Fairfax County Park Authority’s only staffed riverfront park with many opportunities for outdoor activities including fishing, boating and hiking.  Play your part by working in and preserving this beautiful park!  

Duties:

  • Assist with maintenance of 400+ acres of natural and cultural resource-based parkland including grounds and trails.
  • Maintenance and janitorial duties in public facilities.
  • Perform safety and security tasks, including monitor visitor safety, answer visitor questions, and ensure regulation compliance.
  • Opening and closing duties.  
  • Work with paid and volunteer staff on special projects.
  • Assist with parking control on busy weekends and holidays  
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to high school graduation or a
  • G.E.D. issued by a state Department of Education.
  • Must be eligible to work in Virginia, possess a Social Security card, and have access to reliable transportation.
  • Must be physically able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Ability to spend extended periods of time standing, walking, and ability to traverse rough and uneven terrain to inspect remote park areas.
  • Must be able to work in varying weather conditions.
  • This is a physically demanding job, and staff must be physically able to complete all duties.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience using and maintaining power and hand tools.
  • Experience driving a trailer.
  • Certifications and Licenses Required:
  • Motor vehicle operator’s license with a good driving record.

To Apply: Contact Matt McNeal, Riverbend Park at 703-759-9018 for further information. Submit resume by email to Matthew.McNeal@fairfaxcounty.gov or fill out application at Riverbend Park. Applications accepted until position filled.

Necessary Special Requirements:

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check to the satisfaction of the employer.

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.  

If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  
 

Hidden Oaks Nature Center

Position Title: Resource Educator 
Location: Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 7701 Royce Street, Annandale, VA 22003. 
Hours: Year-round, part-time work, approximately 20 hours per week; days vary and may include weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Salary: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour, depending on experience 

Overview: Share your passion for nature and the outdoors! Lead or assist nature, science, and/or cultural history programs, for preschool to elementary age school groups, scout groups, and/or all-age family programs. Occasionally assist with larger group events on site and/or outreach programs to schools in Fairfax County. Applicant must demonstrate the agility to present given material and teach groups of varying age, number, cultural, and abilities backgrounds. Training is provided. Must be able to work within a team and function independently. Minimal administrative duties and annual training classes are required.

Duties:

  • Lead or assist with leading groups on trail walks, natural history classes, standards of learning-based school programs, or scout programs. Typically, 60 to 90 minutes each. Boy scout programs can last 4 to 5 hours.
  • Serve as manager on duty, which involves overseeing site operations and visitor experience; being responsible for volunteers and visitors in the building, and providing visitor services.
  • Assist or lead private nature functions to include birthday parties and site rentals.
  • Complete weekly administrative duties in a timely manner (e.g., online timesheets).
  • Most programming takes place at Hidden Oaks, but some are at other locations in Fairfax County.
  • All other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years old or older.
  • High school diploma.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills in English.
  • Strong organizational abilities plus ability to work independently.
  • Must be willing to register and serve as Scouts of America merit badge counselor.
  • First aid and CPR certifications required within one month of being hired.
  • Ability to traverse nature trails over sometimes rough terrain and up and down hills.
  • Flexible availability. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in natural history interpretation and/or education or a related field.
  • Experience in developing, leading, and evaluating small group educational programs.
  • Undergraduate degree or higher in a related field.
  • Multi-lingual.
  • Experience in working with diverse populations and within a diverse team.
  • National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide (or equivalent) or higher. 

To apply: Submit your resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov

Note: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible for benefits and are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.   

Necessary Special Requirements: 

  • The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background, Child Protective Services Registry, driving record check to the satisfaction of the employer.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY. 

Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  

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