Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
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.
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.
Hiring Range: $135,000 - $150,000
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is the state’s lead conservation agency, providing access for outdoor recreation, strengthening communities’ flood resilience, and protecting what Virginians care about: clean water, parks, natural habitat, and open spaces.
Serving a diverse commonwealth rich in nature and culture, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation touches all Virginians’ lives.
Job Duties
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) seeks an experienced and mission-driven Natural Heritage Division Director to lead the statewide work of Virginia’s Natural Heritage Program. This position provides strategic leadership and oversight for all operations of Virginia’s Natural Heritage Program, guiding interdisciplinary teams responsible for biological inventory, data and information management, environmental review, land protection, and stewardship of the state’s Natural Area Preserves. The role ensures the integrity of statewide conservation data, directs the protection and management of priority natural areas, oversees legislative and board support responsibilities, strengthens collaboration across DCR units, and manages a $6.2M general fund budget and oversees the pursuit and use of approximately $4M in grants and contract funding to support statewide conservation programs and initiatives.
DCR offers paid leave; a minimum of 13 paid state holidays per year; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans (including 401a Cash Match and 457 Deferred Compensation Plan for classified positions, and VaLORS for law enforcement positions); and is a federally recognized Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer.
DCR’s Mission is to conserve the natural, scenic, historic, and cultural resources of the Commonwealth. We invite you to learn more about DCR’s efforts to CONSERVE.
Minimum Qualifications
Additional Considerations
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Submission of an online application is required for this position. DCR does not accept applications, resumes, cover letters, etc., in any other format. Applicants should ensure their online application and/or resume are complete, and include duties and skills associated with their work experience.
A valid Driver's License is required to operate a state vehicle or if operating a personal vehicle while conducting business on behalf of the agency.
Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Park or Federal experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT
DCR employees are encouraged to visit Virginia State Parks! Check out our employee discounts:
Contact Information
Name: Human Resources
Phone: N/A
Email: HR@dcr.virginia.gov
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
