Job openings at DCR
DCR is looking for talented people to fill positions listed below. Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date.
Generally applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.
Full-time (salaried) employment offers
- A choice of healthcare plans.
- Vacation, family, personal and sick leave.
- A retirement plan.
- A sickness and disability plan.
- Employer-paid life insurance.
- Deferred compensation with employer match.
Certain positions require a criminal background check, a conflict of interest financial statement or both. Law-enforcement positions require a fingerprint-based FBI investigation. DCR is an EEO/AA/ADA Employer.
For seasonal and hourly-wage positions at state parks, contact the particular park for details.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, all new hires must complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Executive branch agencies are required to use the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
For additional information on these openings, contact hr@dcr.virginia.gov. Find positions available throughout Virginia at Virginia Jobs.
Job openings at DCR
Education Support Specialist II
Interpretive Ranger
Open Until Filled
State Parks - Natural Bridge State Park
Apply Now
Hourly Rate: $16.00
Join Our Team at the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation!
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hiring! Join us in preserving what people care about most – access to the outdoors, natural habitats, open spaces, clean water, and safe infrastructure.
Natural Bridge State Park is accepting applications for an Interpretive Ranger position.
Job Summary:
Interpretive rangers provide meaningful experiences for visitors by interpreting the significance of the park’s natural, historical, and cultural resources. They are responsible for conducting interpretive programs, field trips, and tours, and assisting with the daily care of all exhibit animals. Other duties include maintaining supplies, creating new interpretive programs, working with local organizations to diversify programming, writing newsletter articles and interpretive signage, attending professional development workshops and seminars, assisting park visitors using good customer service techniques, keeping accurate records, and assisting with other duties as assigned.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Plans, researches, markets, and presents programming that connects visitors to the cultural, historical, and natural resources of the park.
- Leads field trips for elementary, middle, and occasionally high school students, as well as for homeschool groups, and tours for large adult groups.
- Staffs an information desk in the visitor center.
- Registers visitors for programs and operates point-of-sale software.
- Assists with care of exhibit animals and maintains department supply inventories for animal care, field trips, programs, etc.
- Assists with special events such as Luminary Nights, as well as community outreach.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience organizing and conducting programs and events for all ages.
- Must be available to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and some nights for astronomy programs.
- Must be 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
Additional Considerations:
- Prior experience or education in biology, geology, history, parks and recreation, or wildlife studies preferred.
- Knowledge of: Virginia history; karst topography and geology; ecology; and/or the area’s flora and fauna.
- Certifications in First Aid/CPR, Project WILD/Aquatic WILD, and NAI Certified Interpretive Guide.
Special Instructions:
- Background Check: Employment in all Virginia State Parks positions is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
- Employment Eligibility: Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.
- Driver’s License Requirement: A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.
- Work Requirements: Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.
Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Park experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT
DCR employees are encouraged to visit Virginia State Parks! Check out our employee discounts.
- Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
- DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service) are entitled to overnight facility discounts, such as:
- Free camping outside of the Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day period in sites designed for up to six people.
- Free camping Sunday night through Thursday night (excluding the night before a holiday) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
- Fifty percent discount on cabins (up to 3 bedrooms) outside of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, for a maximum of 14 nights. All reservations require a two-night minimum. Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts are included; one-night yurt stays only receive a 25% discount.
Apply Now