Fairfax County is a proud Virginia Values Veterans (V3)-certified organization.
Nature & History Jobs
Fairfax County is a proud 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.
To apply for open part-time positions, please complete the online application.
Position: Park Naturalist/ Outdoor Instructor (Year-Round Part-time Position)
Location: Burke Lake Park; 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
Hours: Variable, but hours will include mornings, afternoons, weekends, and some holidays. Part time work averaging 19 hours per week up to 30-35 during our busy seasons.
Salary: $18-$21, depending on experience and certifications
Instructor Description: Under the supervision of the Park Programmer, plan, design and present interpretive programs in natural and cultural history, fishing, geocaching, orienteering, outdoor recreation, kayaking, nature and science topics for age groups ranging from preschool to adults. Groups can include school groups, scout groups, camps, general public, thematic class series, events, and off-site and special request programs. Assist operations staff with park events. Assist in assessing the sites natural resources with the Lake Front Senior Interpreter. Assist Camp Director and play a vital role in our summer camps. Provide operational support to all programs.
Minimum Qualifications: Experience with natural sciences, education, recreation, or a closely related field. Experience presenting interpretive programs and teaching children. Ability to communicate effectively. Experience using a kayak or canoe or willingness to learn. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office. Must be at least 18 years old and have a clean driving record. First Aid/CPR/AED certified or the ability to attain certification within the first six months of employment. Applicants are required to complete a background investigation 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.
To apply: Send your resume to isabelle.wolter@fairfaxcounty.gov
If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships.
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.
Seasonal Interpretive Naturalist
Hidden Pond Nature Center
Compensation: $16-17/ hour
Hours: Specific need for shifts Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:30am-4:30pm or 9am-5pm (additional shift needs include weekends and evenings to cover programs or operations support.) 10-20 hours per week for spring and fall with reduced hours in the winter depending on program demand. 10-15 hour per week for summer 2025 and then 20-40 hours per week for the following summers.
Job description:
Share your passion for nature with the public as you conduct interpretive nature and outdoor field study programs for students and community members. Become an expert of our local plants and wildlife. Refine your public speaking skills by teaching a variety of nature based educational programs for all ages. Assist with the day-to-day operations to include animal care.
Responsibilities/Duties:
Qualifications: Preferred education or currently studying Environmental Science, Parks and Recreation, or similar field. Preferred experience in developing and leading programs for at least 5 years. Must be at least eighteen years old. Must be out of high school for at least two years for Naturalist-in-charge duties. Applicants should have a basic knowledge of nature, some experience working with the public, communications skills, and the ability to follow oral and written directions in a team setting under direction of senior staff. Must be able to work independently and with others.
Note: *This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay.
To apply, email resume to: michelle.alexander@fairfaxcounty.gov
Hidden Pond Nature Center 8511 Greeley Blvd Springfield, VA 22152
Phone: (703) 451-9588
Necessary Special Requirements:
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: Site Steward (S02)
Location: Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Blvd, Springfield, Virginia 22152
Hours: Part time/ 5-10 hours per week average
Schedule: May vary based on seasonal need. Preferred availability at least some mornings (8-11AM) and late afternoons (3PM-5PM) on weekdays. Shifts could also include evenings and weekends. Expanded hours may be available in the Summer to support camps, and in other seasons to support projects. This position will likely be assigned 2-3 custodial and grounds shifts per week throughout the year, with additional project and program shifts as needed.
Salary: $13-$16 per hour
Overview:
Hidden Pond Nature Center is searching for an eager, responsible worker who will play an integral role in the regular operations of Hidden Pond Park by executing a maintenance plan that aligns with Site standards. This position will be supervised directly by the Site Manager and may have opportunities to learn about natural resource management, including invasive plant removal, environmental monitoring and mapping, and maintenance of aquatic ecosystems.
Duties:
Minimum Qualifications:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Note: *This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are not eligible to earn benefits, paid leave or receive holiday pay. This position will remain open until filled.
To Apply: Please send resume to Jim Serfass: james.serfassjr@fairfaxcounty.gov
Phone: 703-451-9588
Necessary Special Requirements:
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 Worker
Salary: $14-17/hour
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA
Schedule: 20+ hours per week; days vary and include weekdays, weekends and holidays
Description: Frying Pan Farm Park is a diverse 135 acre park and this position will include working indoors and outdoors. Duties include grounds maintenance to include mowing and landscaping, cleaning classrooms, Visitor Center and restrooms, trash removal, unlocking and locking building for user groups, patrolling park grounds, responding to staff and visitor requests, and helping with special events.
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.
Special Requirements: The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and driving record check. First Aid and CPR/AED certification (offered through Fairfax County) must be completed with 60 days of hire.
To apply: Submit your resume to paul.nicholson@fairfaxcounty.gov
Necessary Special Requirements:
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: Equestrian Assistant
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA
Hours: 20 hours per week including some evening and weekend shifts
Salary: Starting at $14-$19 per hour, depending on experience and certifications
Overview: We are currently seeking an enthusiastic, self-driven individual to join our Frying Pan team and coordinate the park’s equestrian facilities. This position is critical to the park’s and Park Authori-ty’s equestrian program and helps to guide us in future directions that maximum service to the eques-trian community.
Duties: Under the direction of the park’s operations manager, the equestrian coordinator’s duties include:
Office
Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have equestrian experience. Must be personable, punctual, dependable and self-motivated. Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications:
Physical Requirements:
Note: This position is scheduled to work a maximum of 900 hours in a calendar year. This position is not eligible to receive limited benefits.
To Apply: Email your resume to Quinn.molner@FairfaxCounty.gov.
Necessary Special Requirements:
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: Farmhand
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA
Hours: 3-4 days per week, includes weekends; Shifts vary, but work hours between 7am and 6pm
Salary: $13 to $18 per hour depending on certifications and experience, no benefits
Overview: Work on one of the last working farms in Fairfax County. Frying Pan Farm Park is seeking an eager, enthusiastic Farmhand to join our team!
Duties:
Minimum Qualifications: Must have a valid driver’s license, be able to lift up to 50 pounds, and good customer service.
Preferred Qualifications:
To Apply: Send resume to julie.buschor@fairfaxcounty.gov
For additional information, call 703-437-5318
Necessary Special Requirements: Will be required to pass a background check and driver’s license check.
Note: This position is scheduled to work a maximum of 900 hours in a calendar year. This position is not eligible to receive limited benefits.
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: Farmhand
Location: Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA
Hours: 4+ days per week, to include some weekend days
Salary: Starting at $17.44
Overview: Come work on one of the last working farms in Fairfax County! The Farm Hand position works closely with the farm manager and other staff to care for farm animals and complete farm chores.
Duties:
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
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.
To apply: Please send your resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Necessary Special Requirements: Will be required to pass a background check and driver’s license check.
Note: This position is scheduled to work a maximum of 900 hours in a calendar year. This position is not eligible to receive limited benefits.
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: Part-time Gardener
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 required.
Salary: $17-$19 per hour, depending on experience and certifications.
We are 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 include:
Garden tasks
Work with others
Minimum qualifications:
Preferred qualifications:
To apply: Send your resume to FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov.
This position is scheduled to work no more than a maximum of 1,560 hours in a calendar year. This position is eligible to receive limited benefits, including: Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance Coverage, Flexible Spending Program, and Deferred Compensation.
Necessary Special Requirements:
If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships
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: Volunteer Coordinator
Location: Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, Virginia
Hours: Average 15-18 hours per week
Salary: $16.49-$17.00
Overview: Green Spring Gardens is actively searching for a volunteer coordinator to actively recruit and retain volunteers to support children’s education, horticulture, general administration, and cus-tomer service.
Duties:
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Note: *This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. Individuals in these positions are
not eligible to earn benefits, paid leave or receive holiday pay. This position will remain open until filled.
To Apply: Email or fax resume and cover letter to Susan Eggerton, Visitor Services and Education
Manager, Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA 22312, 703-642-5173
phone, 703-642-8095 fax, email: segger@fairfaxcounty.gov
Necessary Special Requirements:
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: Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
Location: Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA
Hours: 30 hours per week; not to exceed 1560 hours per year; weekend and occasional evening work required.
Salary: $17.44-22/hours, benefits eligible
Overview: Green Spring Gardens is searching for an eager and creative Marketing and Outreach Coordinator to join our team! The marketing and outreach coordinator will work directly for our Farmer’s Market, responsible for marketing and communications, event planning, and administrative responsibilities.
Duties:
Marketing and Communications:
Event Planning:
Administrative Duties:
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Certificates and Licenses Required: Motor vehicle operator’s license.
Note: *This position is scheduled to work a minimum of 1,040 hours and no more than a maximum of 1,560 hours in a calendar year (30 hours per week). This position is eligible to receive limited benefits, including Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance Coverage, Flexible Spending Program, and Deferred Compensation.
To apply: Contact Caroline Hockenberry, Community Horticulture Coordinator, Green Spring Gardens at 703- 642-0128. Submit resumes by email to Caroline.Hockenberry@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.
If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships
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.
Facility Attendant
Rate of Pay: $20-28/hour, Position will not exceed 900 hours/year
Hours: Part-time, variable schedule, 10-20 hours per week. Includes mornings, afternoons, evening, weekends, and holidays.
Location: Observatory Park at Turner Farm and Riverbend Park in Great Falls, Virginia.
About Observatory Park at Turner Farm and Riverbend Park:
Observatory Park at Turner Farm engages the community with astronomy events and observatory classes. Riverbend Park is FCPA’s only staffed riverfront park and is a protected natural resource area. Benefits of working here include a community of supportive staff and opportunities to participate in outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. Play your part by working in and preserving these beautiful parks!
Job Description: Provides building and grounds maintenance support, custodial duties, safety and security duties, program and event coordination support. Creates and maintains reports, assists with public and volunteer communications, scheduling, program administration support, cash handling/ticket taking. Inspects facilities, equipment and adjacent areas, ensuring proper conditions and safe for public use. Acts as manager on duty and front-line support. Assists with supervision of part-time and/or volunteer staff. Works with paid and volunteer staff on special projects. Other duties as assigned.
Preferred 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 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. Ability to communicate, see, hear, use hand tools, and drive park vehicles.
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.
To Apply: Contact Casey Pittrizzi, Riverbend Park at 703-759-9018 for further information. Submit resume by email to casey.pittrizzi@fairfaxcounty.gov or fill out application at Riverbend Park. Applications accepted until position filled.
Necessary Special Requirements:
If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships.
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: Riverbend Park Visitor Center Operator
Location: Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA 22066
Hours: This position may not exceed 900 hours per calendar year. The Visitor Center is open Six days a week with Tuesdays being the only day closed. It is open to the public from 12PM-5PM depending on the season. Must work 12-18 hours per week. Other opportunities for hours may be available.
Salary: $15-$20.5837 /hour depending on experience
Overview: Spend time on the river! Riverbend Park is FCPA’s only staffed riverfront park. Benefits of working here include a community of supportive staff and opportunities to participate in outdoor ac-tivities including fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking. Play your part by working in and preserving this beautiful park!
Duties: Responsible for operating the front desk of the park’s visitor center. This position is the first contact for our diverse park visitors. Welcome visitors and provide information about Riverbend Park’s natural resources and services. Responsibilities include daily opening and closing procedures, accurate cash handling skills, inventory stocking and display, and customer service. Position uses a POS system and other computer programs to view bookings, schedules and process reservations and payments. Will use a phone, email and other communication devices during operating hours. The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated team player with excellent customer service skills who enjoys learning about the environment and assisting children, families and other park visitors.
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.
Good communication skills and a friendly attitude are a must, as well as the ability to operate a computerized point of sale cash machine and accurately perform routine cash handling procedures. Must be able to handle multiple responsibilities while remaining calm and visitor oriented.
Physical Requirements:
To Apply: Send resume and three references to Andrew.Wilk@fairfaxcounty.gov. Call 703-759-9018. Applications are accepted until the position is filled.
Note: Seasonal positions 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:
If you have any questions, please email FCPAJOBS@Fairfaxcounty.gov or visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/jobs-internships.
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.
Title: Buildings and Grounds Maintenance Assistant
Location: Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151
Salary: $16.76 per hour, depending on skills and experience
Status: E (Part-Time, maximum 1560 hours per year, eligible for health insurance)
Hours: 20 to 30 hours/week; some weekend work required
Schedule: This is a part-time, year-round position.
Responsibilities: Sully Historic Site seeks part time buildings and grounds maintenance assistant. As an employee you will support the Maintenance Crew Chief with a variety of tasks. Building maintenance support includes sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping public and office areas and minor repair tasks. Grounds maintenance support includes safely mowing, string trimming, and clearing paths and trails. The maintenance assistant will also provide event support. Tasks may include setting up and taking down tents, tables chairs, fencing, signs, and trash cans. Event support may also include parking cars and trash pickup.
Certificates and Licenses Required: Driver's license (required). First Aid/CPR certification within 90 days of appointment
Necessary Special Requirements: All appointees must also agree to a criminal background check including fingerprinting and a valid driver’s license.
Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Must be able to navigate uneven terrain on park property. Must be able to climb 3 flights of stairs. Must be able to navigate uneven terrain on park property. All duties may be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.
Additional Information: Individuals in these positions are eligible for limited employee benefits, including medical, vision and dental insurance coverage, and participation in flexible spending programs, but are not eligible to earn leave or receive holiday pay. This position cannot exceed 1,560 hours per calendar year.
Position Start Date: Immediately
To apply: Send your resume to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-437-1794.
The population of Fairfax County is very diverse where 39.8% of residents speak a language other than English at home (Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and others) and we encourage candidates bilingual in English and a foreign language to apply to this opportunity.
Fairfax County Government 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.
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. DHREmployment@fairfaxcounty.gov. EEO/AA/TTY.
Find out more about career opportunities and working in Fairfax County.