Manager Brookside Nature Center and Maydale Nature Classroom (10870, Grade 28)

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission•Wheaton, MD

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Brookside Nature Center, located within Wheaton Regional Park, is a destination for environmental education, nature exploration, and community engagement. Through exhibits, nature programs, camps, trails, gardens, special events, and volunteer opportunities, the center connects visitors of all ages to the natural world. Maydale Nature Classroom, managed by Brookside Nature Center, is located in Maydale Conservation Park in Colesville, about 6 miles from Brookside. The classroom expands opportunities for outdoor learning, discovery, and connection to local natural resources. Montgomery Parks is seeking a collaborative leader to manage Brookside Nature Center and Maydale Nature Classroom. Reporting to the Assistant Division Chief for Nature Centers, this position oversees staff, programs, volunteers, budgets, facilities, exhibits, gardens, trails, and visitor services and experiences. This role blends leadership, community engagement, and operations. You will help shape how visitors experience nature while leading a dedicated team of naturalists, educators, volunteers, and support staff. The ideal candidate is a leader who enjoys building teams, creating meaningful connections between people and nature, and balancing strategic planning with hands-on operational management. One day you may be supporting public programs and community partnerships; the next you could be coaching staff, planning facility improvements, reviewing budgets, or helping develop new educational and interpretive experiences. About Montgomery Parks Nature Centers Montgomery Parks operates five nature program sites, Black Hill Discovery Center, Brookside Nature Center, Locust Grove Nature Center, Maydale Nature Classroom and Meadowside Nature Center. The nature centers provide learning opportunities for youths and adults in a variety of ways including school, scout and public programs for all ages; special events, summer camps, birthday parties, volunteer opportunities, internships, engaging interpretive exhibits, live animal exhibits, native plant gardens, trails and nature play areas. Learn More About Our Nature Centers: https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-trails/nature-centers/ About Montgomery Parks Montgomery Parks is an award-winning park system and part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). Supported by more than 1,000 dedicated employees, we care for 416 parks, including trails, and natural spaces across Montgomery County, with team members working in a wide range of roles including park operations, public programs, park planning, public safety, and administration. Our work is visible in everyday moments, from safe, well-maintained trails to welcoming parks and community programs. Careers with Montgomery Parks offer purpose, stability, and the opportunity to make a visible, lasting impact where people live, work, and connect. Learn More About Montgomery Parks: https://www.montgomeryparks.org/

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Life Science, Physical Science, or any related field.
Four (4) years of progressively responsible park naturalist experience.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total eight (8) years.
Valid driver's license in accordance with both State and Commission rules and regulations. Driver’s license must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit the employee’s ability to drive Commission vehicles or perform driving duties required by the position of assignment.
Depending on area of assignment, must be able to obtain and maintain all applicable certifications and licenses.
Ability to perform first aid and CPR.

Nice To Haves

Ability to communicate in one of Montgomery County’s most common languages (Spanish, Chinese, African Languages, Persian, French) is a plus.

Responsibilities

Provides exceptional leadership in a collaborative team environment.
Recruits, screens, hires, onboards new staff and interns.
Trains, coaches, evaluates, and recognizes staff and interns.
Recognizes and resolves personnel issues.
Works with volunteer manager to oversee volunteer program.
Develops and implements vision, goals, and strategic plan.
Reviews, approves, and evaluates programs and services.
Establishes and implements operating and program procedures.
Collaborates with other Montgomery Parks’ nature centers and other sections of Parks to develop and execute programs, events, services, and experiences such as exhibits.
Coordinates a balance of programs and services in response to community needs and interests, agency priorities, and revenue goals.
Maintains strong relationships with partners and community.
Proactively grows advocates and community partners with diverse backgrounds and located within Equity Focus Areas.
Evaluates facility operating systems for safety and function.
Plans, designs, and implements facility and grounds improvements with assistance from regional park staff and Facilities Management units.
Coordinates routine maintenance, repairs, and custodial services with Facilities Management units and contractors.
Collaborates with natural resources staff to maintain or improve natural areas.
Manages operating and fee-based budgets
Submits requests for Major Maintenance and Capital Improvement Projects
Administers procurement functions including purchase requisitions, purchase cards, and petty cash.