Parks Chief Naturalist

Class Concept

This position is responsible for developing educational programs, exhibits, and natural features on state parklands. Employee(s) plan and direct a specific program for one or more of the four regions associated with each region of the state (North, South, East or West) and/ or variety of programs associated with several regions to promote healthy outdoor recreation and encourage good stewardship of the State's Natural Resources. These programs require extensive coordination with Parks & Recreation Division operations and design personnel and the development of training programs for park operations staff and seasonal naturalists. Duties also include responsibility for the design, construction, and cost projections for exhibits and displays, and are performed under the general supervision.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the natural environment and ecology to design, construct, and maintain realistic and technically accurate exhibits and to develop educational programs to reflect the features of the North Carolina parks system.
• Considerable knowledge of the techniques and processes involved in developing and constructing educational exhibits.
• Ability to train and supervise staff.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff, other specialists, and the public.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in a natural science curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in natural science education, natural science research, management of natural science attraction, or as a State or National Park Ranger, or in a museum curator design field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.