Natural Resource Manager

Frederick County Government•Parks & Recreation Division - Frederick, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Frederick County Division of Parks & Recreation is committed to the highest level of care of our natural and historic resources while making the park facilities and recreational programs available to all. The Recreation Department seeks to enhance the quality of life of county residents by providing innovative activities and programs that meet the recreational needs of Frederick County communities. This management position is responsible for overseeing natural resource management, park ranger operations, and enforcement of county code on parkland, while ensuring the protection, sustainability, and safe use of County parks. The role develops and manages budgets, supervises and trains staff, coordinates environmental programs, and oversees inspections of trails, stormwater infrastructure, and conservation projects. Responsibilities include responding to emergencies, enforcing park regulations, preserving natural and cultural resources, and advancing community education through outreach, seasonal programming, and public engagement. This position also serves as a liaison with partner agencies and community organizations to support environmental stewardship and Division priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management, forestry, natural resources, or a related field
Minimum of 3 years of work experience in parks and recreation operations, wildlife management, forestry, or related field
At least 1 year of work experience supervising or managing staff
Possession of a valid Driver’s License
Ability to maintain County Authorized Driver privileges
Knowledge of environmental policy and law
Knowledge of methods and procedures for maintaining parks, with the ability to repair and maintain equipment, buildings, and site amenities
Knowledge of native Maryland flora and fauna
Working knowledge of principles and practices of managing parks and recreation programs, administration, services, activities, and facilities
Strong and effective written and spoken (English) communication skills including the ability to present information to the general public and complete forms and reports
Basic skill to oversee and prepare annual departmental and capital budgets
Ability and willingness to participate in park management, law enforcement and other job-related training
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with local law enforcement agencies, park neighbors, co-workers, and the general public
Ability to effectively organize work, determine priorities, make decisions, and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision
Ability to effectively supervise, direct and evaluate the work of others
Demonstrate independent judgment with the ability to recognize and approach potentially dangerous situations and utilize conflict resolution
Ability to effectively access and utilize computerized systems and equipment
Ability to be flexible and willing to adapt to indoor and outdoor working environments throughout the year
Ability to obtain the following certifications: Basic Water Rescue Training certification within one (1) year of hire; CPR/AED and First Aid certifications within ninety (90) days of hire
Ability to act as a representative of Frederick County Parks and Recreation to the public

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in parks and recreation management, forestry, natural resources, or a related field with 1 year experience as described above which must include at least 1 year of work experience supervising or managing staff
Maryland State Roadside Tree Certification within two (2) years from the date of hire
Maryland Certified Pesticide Applicator’s License within two (2) years of hire
Possession of State of Maryland Arborist Certification
Possession of Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP)
Possession of a Maryland State Pesticide Applicators Certification
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP)

Responsibilities

Oversee, supervise, and evaluate the Park Ranger program for the county
Manage departmental staff including hiring, training, supervision, discipline, and termination to ensure effective operations and compliance with County policies
Oversee and provide technical expertise for the Division in matters related to wildlife management, habitat creation and manipulation, conservation, sustainability practices, trail management and other natural resource management responsibilities
Liaison and lead (provide hands-on tasks) volunteer projects related to natural resources programs which includes land or water trail clean-up days, tree plantings, physically restore or maintain the environment, invasive species removal, etc.
Manage and expand the Division Pollinator Garden and Meadow Restoration/maintenance Program
Coordinate new trail construction proposal projects and re-alignment projects ensuring sustainable design elements
Perform patrol checks and oversee inspections of stormwater infrastructure including stream restoration projects, reforestation sites, dam safety, and green infrastructure
Provide natural resource and environmental information and recommendations to civic organizations, developers and homeowners associations on matters related to parkland
Serve as liaison to law enforcement, safety, and environmental agencies to coordinate joint initiatives and ensure compliance with regulations
Identify and apply environmental sustainability practices into all aspects of Division operations
Manage drinking water quality testing programs and sustainability initiatives within County parks
Liaison with the Division of Energy and Environment on tree planting projects in County Parks; develop and manage County Parkland Tree Inventory program
Oversee and manage the Division “Trails Committee”; conduct regular inspections and make recommendations for scheduled maintenance of County Parkland Trails
Develop, review, and maintain policies and procedures related to natural resource protection
Maintain and update standard operating procedures to ensure consistency, safety, and compliance across all work functions
Develop, implement, and conduct annual trainings for Division staff on natural resource protection, recycling, etc.
Ensure staff are properly trained and provided opportunities for professional development and advancement
Lead public presentations on Division of Parks and Recreation projects, programs, and events; lead and coordinate seasonal outdoor educational programs including canoe/kayak trips, Junior Ranger Program, hiking and campfire programs
Represent the Division and Director at public outreach, education, and community participation functions
Make recommendations and assist the Parks Superintendent with preservation planning, master planning, sector planning strategic planning initiatives and the operating budget
Oversee and prepare annual departmental and capital budgets to ensure adequate funding for operations and compliance with regulatory requirements
Manage written citations/warnings, court paperwork, and incident reports in Park Ranger Supervisor absence; complete written citations/warnings and incident reports in the field
Enforce park rules, regulations, and County Code through education, written warnings, and civil citations
Educate park patrons on park regulations while enforcing County codes through written warnings and civil citations
Attend court and testify when necessary
Drive County vehicle to complete field inspections, as needed
Perform opening and closing duties for parks to ensure facilities are secure and ready for public use
Manage the process of securing land leases and inspection of land use
Inventory and procure essential ranger equipment including medical supplies, radios, apparel, bicycles, and safety gear, and conduct monthly procurement reviews
Respond to emergencies or park patron complaints/issues/arguments within the county park system; perform First Aid and or CPR in a park emergency
Act as first aid and CPR instructor to ensure all staff are trained in life safety procedures
Perform other related duties as required

Benefits

11 days of Vacation leave with increase after 2 years of employment
15 days of Sick leave with unlimited annual carryover
11 paid holidays, plus 2 additional floating holidays
Day 1 coverage of comprehensive Medical Insurance Plan options
Generous County Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution (if enrolled in the high-deductible plan)
Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending
Employee Health Center with no or low-cost primary and urgent care
100% County paid 2x annual salary Group Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit
County and Employee funded Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Vesting after 5 years of service
Additional service credit for eligible previous public service, military service, etc.
Employee Assistance Program
Employee Wellness Program
Generous Tuition Reimbursement Program
Deferred Compensation Plan
Legal Resources
Supplemental Life Insurance
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Lifetime Benefit with Long Term Care plan