Trails Specialist

Sarasota County Government

74d • $53,456 - $56,000

About The Position

The Environmental Specialist II role in the Natural Areas and Trails department focuses on coordinating activities for safe park and trail use, ensuring positive visitor experiences, and managing various environmental projects. Responsibilities include planning and implementing maintenance for paved multi-use trails and trailheads, managing invasive and exotic species, assisting with facility operations, and coordinating volunteer efforts. The position covers sites such as The Legacy Trail and Venetian Waterway Park.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in biological or physical sciences or related field and two years of related professional experience.
• Master’s Degree in biological or physical sciences or related field and one year of related professional experience.
• Six years of related professional experience in lieu of a degree.

Nice To Haves

• Certification as a Parks and Recreation Professional from the National Recreation and Parks Association.
• Natural Areas Pesticide License or ability to obtain within 18 months.
• Certification from the National Wildfire Coordinating Group for completion of Firefighter Training S-130 and S-190.
• Experience working on a prescribed burn team.
• Knowledge of Florida’s flora, fauna, and habitats.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular on-site inspections of trails and trailhead parks to ensure safety and cleanliness.
• Document needs or deficiencies and submit service requests.
• Stewardship of resources, including management of invasive vegetation and animal species.
• Develop scopes of work and coordinate contractual services for trails and trailhead parks.
• Promote environmental standards for the protection of species and habitats.
• Assist with prescribed fire and fire line management.
• Ensure effective communication of maintenance and trail notices to the public.
• Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers for various projects and events.
• Plan and implement nature-based programs and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Florida Retirement System (FRS).
• 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days, and 16 paid vacation days in the first year.
• Access to free gyms at multiple Sarasota County Government locations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees