Park Technician

The Mariners' Museum•Newport News, VA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Mariners’ Museum and Park is seeking a Park Technician to help care for its 550-acre public park, which includes a 167-acre lake and the Noland Trail. This full-time, hourly position supports both the park's trails and its on-water programming. The role involves assisting with trail maintenance, upkeep, and supporting on-water programs and equipment maintenance in partnership with the Lake Program Manager and Trail Supervisor. The position also provides assistance with interdepartmental requests as directed by the Park Department Director. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, caring for natural spaces, and helping create memorable experiences for the community.

Requirements

Interest in and care for the outdoors.
Hold or obtain valid first aid, CPR, and AED certifications.
Strong communication, organizational, and task-prioritization skills.
Adaptable, collaborative, and safety-first mindset.
Ability to safely, properly, and efficiently operate vehicles, equipment, 2-way radio systems, and tools, including operator’s maintenance.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
High School Degree or equivalent required.
Valid Division of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Operator’s license with a good DMV record is required.
Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen before employment.
Must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions/extremes.
Must be able to work holidays and weekends as needed, in the event of emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Experience in customer service, outdoor/recreational programming, education, museum volunteering/internships, basic tool usage, or paddlesports (e.g., American Canoe Association, lifeguard, or water rescue training) is preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintain the health and sustainability of the Noland Trail and all other Museum trails and paths according to The Noland Trail Maintenance Manual.
Ensure guest safety by painting exposed tree roots, creating clear pathways, removing hazardous debris from trails, bridges, buffer zones, and communal spaces.
Reduce erosion by keeping trench drains free of debris, repairing erosion damage, and adding clay, sand, and stone dust to trails and paths.
Perform minor repairs to wooden structures.
Set up, clean, inspect, repair, and securely store kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and waterfront gear.
Perform routine hardware/hull maintenance, track inventory, and report damaged equipment promptly.
Provide pre-launch safety briefings, basic paddling tips, and waterway overviews to participants.
Assist guests with proper lifejacket fitting, boat sizing, launching, and landing.
Operate point-of-sale systems for rental programs, tours, and retail.
Check in reservations, manage walk-up equipment rentals, and track check-outs/check-ins for rental programs.
Perform other duties as assigned.