Natural Resource Manager

Natural Resource Manager

Salary

$79,757.47 - $135,587.70 Annually

Location

Parks & Recreation Division - Frederick, MD

Job Type

Full-time Regular

Job Number

FY27-00100

Department

Parks Management

Opening Date

10/07/2026

Closing Date

10/21/2026 4:00 PM Eastern

FLSA

Exempt

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

JOB INFORMATION

The Frederick County Division of Parks & Recreation is committed to the highest level of care of our natural and historic resources while making the park facilities and recreational programs available to all. We believe that the benefits of parks & recreation are far reaching and vital to each and every individual, family, and community in Frederick County.

The Recreation Department seeks to enhance the quality of life of county residents by providing innovative activities and programs that meet the recreational needs of Frederick County communities. We encourage participation in a variety of recreational opportunities that foster enjoyment and lifelong learning.

Position Details:

Exempt; full-time; 40 hours per week; Monday - Friday; 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; full-benefits

This management position is responsible for overseeing natural resource management, park ranger operations, and enforcement of county code on parkland, while ensuring the protection, sustainability, and safe use of County parks. The role develops and manages budgets, supervises and trains staff, coordinates environmental programs, and oversees inspections of trails, stormwater infrastructure, and conservation projects. Responsibilities include responding to emergencies, enforcing park regulations, preserving natural and cultural resources, and advancing community education through outreach, seasonal programming, and public engagement. This position also serves as a liaison with partner agencies and community organizations to support environmental stewardship and Division priorities.

NOTE: The upper pay range reflects possible wage rates for internal County transfers and promotions, which are calculated per County policy. For external hires, offers are made at the base wage rate.

Frederick County Government values the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to Frederick County Government today.

TOTAL COMPENSATION PACKAGE:

Frederick County offers an extensive compensation package to reflect how highly we value our employees. The following is what you can expect in your first year as a full-time benefited Frederick County Government employee.

• 11 days of Vacation leave with increase after 2 years of employment

• 15 days of Sick leave with unlimited annual carryover

• 11 paid holidays, plus 2 additional floating holidays (10 and 11 month employees may not receive all holidays)

• Day 1 coverage of comprehensive Medical Insurance Plan options to include generous County Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution (if enrolled in the high-deductible plan). This is part of a full range of benefits including Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending

• Employee Health Center with no or low-cost primary and urgent care

• 100% County paid 2x annual salary Group Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit

• County and Employee funded Defined Benefit Pension Plan

• Vesting after 5 years of service

• Additional service credit for eligible previous public service, military service, etc.

• Work/Life balance programs include: Employee Assistance Program and Employee Wellness Program

• Generous Tuition Reimbursement Program

• Other employee-paid benefits such as Deferred Compensation Plan, Legal Resources, Supplemental Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Lifetime Benefit with Long Term Care plan

NOTE: Benefited employees will accrue service and leave based on the FTE and/or hours worked per calendar year.

For more information, visit our benefits page on the Frederick County Government job opportunities webpage.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee, supervise, and evaluate the Park Ranger program for the county
• Manage departmental staff including hiring, training, supervision, discipline, and termination to ensure effective operations and compliance with County policies
• Oversee and provide technical expertise for the Division in matters related to wildlife management, habitat creation and manipulation, conservation, sustainability practices, trail management and other natural resource management responsibilities
• Liaison and lead (provide hands-on tasks) volunteer projects related to natural resources programs which includes land or water trail clean-up days, tree plantings, physically restore or maintain the environment, invasive species removal, etc.
• Manage and expand the Division Pollinator Garden and Meadow Restoration/maintenance Program
• Coordinate new trail construction proposal projects and re-alignment projects ensuring sustainable design elements
• Perform patrol checks and oversee inspections of stormwater infrastructure including stream restoration projects, reforestation sites, dam safety, and green infrastructure
• Provide natural resource and environmental information and recommendations to civic organizations, developers and homeowners associations on matters related to parkland
• Serve as liaison to law enforcement, safety, and environmental agencies to coordinate joint initiatives and ensure compliance with regulations
• Identify and apply environmental sustainability practices into all aspects of Division operations
• Manage drinking water quality testing programs and sustainability initiatives within County parks
• Liaison with the Division of Energy and Environment on tree planting projects in County Parks; develop and manage County Parkland Tree Inventory program
• Oversee and manage the Division "Trails Committee"; conduct regular inspections and make recommendations for scheduled maintenance of County Parkland Trails
• Develop, review, and maintain policies and procedures related to natural resource protection
• Maintain and update standard operating procedures to ensure consistency, safety, and compliance across all work functions
• Develop, implement, and conduct annual trainings for Division staff on natural resource protection, recycling, etc.
• Ensure staff are properly trained and provided opportunities for professional development and advancement
• Lead public presentations on Division of Parks and Recreation projects, programs, and events; lead and coordinate seasonal outdoor educational programs including canoe/kayak trips, Junior Ranger Program, hiking and campfire programs
• Represent the Division and Director at public outreach, education, and community participation functions
• Make recommendations and assist the Parks Superintendent with preservation planning, master planning, sector planning strategic planning initiatives and the operating budget
• Oversee and prepare annual departmental and capital budgets to ensure adequate funding for operations and compliance with regulatory requirements
• Manage written citations/warnings, court paperwork, and incident reports in Park Ranger Supervisor absence; complete written citations/warnings and incident reports in the field
• Enforce park rules, regulations, and County Code through education, written warnings, and civil citations
• Educate park patrons on park regulations while enforcing County codes through written warnings and civil citations
• Attend court and testify when necessary
• Drive County vehicle to complete field inspections, as needed
• Perform opening and closing duties for parks to ensure facilities are secure and ready for public use
• Manage the process of securing land leases and inspection of land use
• Inventory and procure essential ranger equipment including medical supplies, radios, apparel, bicycles, and safety gear, and conduct monthly procurement reviews
• Respond to emergencies or park patron complaints/issues/arguments within the county park system; perform First Aid and or CPR in a park emergency
• Act as first aid and CPR instructor to ensure all staff are trained in life safety procedures
• Perform other related duties as required

To perform this job successfully, an employee must be able to perform all essential functions satisfactorily. Any employees position may not be assigned all functions or equipment listed above, and the examples may not cover all functions or equipment that may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in parks and recreation management, forestry, natural resources, or a related field
• Minimum of 3 years of work experience in parks and recreation operations, wildlife management, forestry, or related field which must include at least 1 year of work experience supervising or managing staff
• Possession of a valid Driver's License

Substitutions for the above-listed required education and experience are a Master's Degree in parks and recreation management, forestry, natural resources, or a related field with 1 year experience as described above which must include at least 1 year of work experience supervising or managing staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

A successful incumbent operating in this role displays the following:

• Ability to maintain County Authorized Driver privileges

• Knowledge of environmental policy and law

• Knowledge of methods and procedures for maintaining parks, with the ability to repair and maintain equipment, buildings, and site amenities

• Knowledge of native Maryland flora and fauna

• Working knowledge of principles and practices of managing parks and recreation programs, administration, services, activities, and facilities

• Strong and effective written and spoken (English) communication skills including the ability to present information to the general public and complete forms and reports

• Basic skill to oversee and prepare annual departmental and capital budgets

• Ability and willingness to participate in park management, law enforcement and other job-related training

• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with local law enforcement agencies, park neighbors, co-workers, and the general public

• Ability to effectively organize work, determine priorities, make decisions, and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision

• Ability to effectively supervise, direct and evaluate the work of others

• Demonstrate independent judgment with the ability to recognize and approach potentially dangerous situations and utilize conflict resolution

• Ability to effectively access and utilize computerized systems and equipment

• Ability to be flexible and willing to adapt to indoor and outdoor working environments throughout the year

• Ability to obtain the following certifications:

• Basic Water Rescue Training certification within one (1) year of hire;

• Maryland State Roadside Tree Certification within two (2) years from the date of hire;

• CPR/AED and First Aid certifications within ninety (90) days of hire;

• Maryland Certified Pesticide Applicator's License within two (2) years of hire

• Ability to act as a representative of Frederick County Parks and Recreation to the public

PREFERENCE MAY BE GIVEN FOR:

• Possession of State of Maryland Arborist Certification
• Possession of Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP)
• Possession of a Maryland State Pesticide Applicators Certification
• Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

• While in this position, the employee is required to constantly walk and lift up to 20 pounds; frequently lift to 50 pounds, push up to and over 40 pounds, pull up to and over 40 pounds; and drive; occasionally lift over 50 pounds
• While in this position, the employee is required to frequently work indoors and outdoors, and walk on uneven ground; occasionally work in hot (above 100 degrees), cold (below 32 degrees), in dirty/dusty/noisy environments, near machinery and chemicals/fumes; and rarely work at heights

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / EXAMINATION PROCESS

• Employees in this classification are designated as Essential. An Essential Employee means the employee is considered necessary for the operation of County services. Essential Employees are required to report to work in the event of a weather incident, general emergency, or disasters when County offices are closed. They may be required to work overtime with little or no advance notice and may be required to report to work in emergency situations and/or after hours
• Failure to meet or maintain the minimum qualifications or additional requirements may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
• Available as needed for a minimum of three (3) Parks and Recreation Special Events and on-call for emergencies and other urgent need situations

EXAMINATION PROCESS (may include):

1) An evaluation of training and experience

2) One or more interviews

3) A pre-employment Security-Sensitive background investigation conducted by the Frederick County Sheriff's Office

Frederick County Government is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding workplace accommodation, including for individuals with disabilities. Applicants who require reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process may contact the Talent Acquisition section of Human Resources. Inquiries about accommodations can be sent to Recruitment@FrederickCountyMD.gov

Retirement Plan:

A defined benefit retirement plan is provided for all regular County employees. Employees are automatically enrolled in either the Uniformed Plan (5 year vesting) or the Non-Uniformed Plan (5 year vesting, effective 07/01/2024) depending upon position classification. The majority of support for the plan is provided by the County; however, employees are required to make a mandatory pre-tax contribution towards their benefit. Retirement benefits are payable at normal, early or delayed retirement. Retirement benefits are also payable upon termination and in the event of death or disability.

Health Insurance:

County employees have a choice of two medical insurance plans, an In-Network (HMO) Plan or a High Deductible medical plan with a Health Care Savings Account, to provide coverage for medical and surgical expenses, hospital and emergency care expenses, mental health expenses and prescription drugs. The County and participants share in the cost of the health insurance with the employee having the benefit of pre tax contribution deductions. Medical insurance goes into effect on the first day of active employment.

Dental Insurance:

Employees may select coverage from one of three dental plan options, ranging from a PPO plan to a dental HMO plan. Coverage includes preventive care, fillings, crowns, bridges and dentures, and the cost of dental insurance is shared by both the County and the employee. Dental insurance goes into effect on the first day of the month that follows the eligible employees completion of 30 days of active employment

NOTE: Employees working 75% or greater of a 35 or 40 hour position are eligible for health & dental insurance.

Flexible Spending Accounts:

The Flex Spending plan allows employees to pay health and day care expenses with pre-tax dollars. Employees may set aside part of their salary in a special account that can be used throughout the year to reimburse themselves for out-of-pocket medical expenses. The maximum contribution is $3,400 per year for Health Care Spending and $7,500 for Dependent Care Spending (work-related day care expenses). Examples of expenses that can be reimbursed for Health Care Spending include, but are not limited to: deductibles, co-payments, dental fees, chiropractors services, and eyeglasses / contact lenses.

Life Insurance:

Employees are insured for 2 times their annual salary in case of death plus 2 times their annual salary for accidental death. Employees do not contribute to the premiums for this coverage. A Supplemental Life Insurance is also offered to regular County employees. The plan allows employees to purchase individually owned term life insurance for themselves, their spouse, and their dependents.

Savings Plan - Deferred Compensation:

The County offers a Section 457 Plan. Deferred compensation plans allow participants to save for retirement in either a pre tax or post tax (Roth) investment account. Contributions are invested at the employees direction into one or more of the variety of investment options offered by the plan. Changes may be made to the contribution levels, investment options, etc. at any time. Contribution maximums are set each year by the IRS.

Educational Reimbursement Program:

County employees who have successfully passed their probationary period may apply for education reimbursement for courses that can improve or develop an employees capabilities related to their current job or for a promotional opportunity within Frederick County Government. The benefit also covers the costs of job-related non-credit courses. If the employee receives a grade of at least a C, or successfully passes a non-credit course, the County reimburses the employee 75% of the costs of tuition, fees and books. If an employee doesnt remain employed with Frederick County Government for two years after a class is taken, the benefit needs to be reimbursed to FCG.

Employee Assistance Program:

This confidential assessment, referral and counseling service is available at no cost to all employees who may need help with a personal or job-related issue or concern.

Leave

Annual Leave - Employees are eligible to use Annual Leave after their 6 month probationary period. Annual Leave accrues as follows: Years of service days per year

0 - 2 years 11 days

2 - 10 years 17 days

10 + years 24 days

Sick Leave - Employees will earn sick leave at a rate of 15 days per calendar year.

Sick Leave may also be used for illness of an employees child, dependent, spouse, parent or parent-in-law. There is no limit on the amount of sick leave accumulated. Unused Sick Leave may be used for additional credit in the pension plan at the time of retirement.

NOTE: Regular benefited part-time employees earn annual and sick leave on a pro-rated basis based on their actual number of hours worked biweekly up to their assigned number of regularly scheduled work hours.

Other available types of leave include, but are not limited to, Family Medical Leave, Bereavement, Jury, and Military.

Holidays:

The County observes 10 holidays every year and 11 are observed on years of General Elections.

For additional information on Frederick County Governments benefits package, please visit the Division of Human Resources website at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov.

All hires before January 1, 2012, will follow the benefit and leave rules as described in the Personnel Rules amended October 3, 2013.

01

Your application, which includes any associated supplemental questions, must be complete at the time of submission and must clearly articulate the required work experience relevant to the position for which you are applying. The experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History section of this application. Your application may be considered incomplete if vague descriptions of experience are included or if you cite experience in your supplemental question response that is not included on the Work History section of this application. When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience based on the information submitted, or if you state "see resume" as your response, your application may not be considered further.

• I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

02

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

03

Which best describes your level of education?

• Less than High School Diploma or the equivalent
• High School Diploma or the equivalent
• Associates degree received
• Bachelors degree received
• Advanced degree received

04

If you have earned a college degree, was it in parks and recreation management, forestry, natural resources, or a related field?

• Yes
• No

05

How many years of work experience in parks and recreation operations, wildlife management, forestry, or related field do you have?

• Less than 1 year of work experience
• 1 year of work experience
• 2 years of work experience
• 3 or more years of work experience

06

Please provide details regarding that work history in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed. NOTE: When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not be considered further.

07

Does your work experience in parks and recreation operations, wildlife management, forestry, or related field include at least 1 year of work experience supervising or managing staff?

• Yes
• No

08

Please provide details regarding that work history in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed. NOTE: When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not be considered further.

09

Do you have possession of State of Maryland Arborist Certification?

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have possession of Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP)?

• Yes
• No

11

Do you have possession of a Maryland State Pesticide Applicators Certification?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) ?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Frederick County Government

Address 12 East Church Street

Frederick, Maryland, 21701

Phone 301-600-1070

Website http://www.FrederickCountymd.gov/jobs