Park Specialist

Jan 21, 2026

The Park Specialist - Upton Hill is responsible for assisting with planning, developing, coordinating, and executing an operational management plan for a park, waterpark, and climbing course. Work is performed under the general direction of the Park Manager or Assistant Park Manager with latitude for independent judgment and action. Park Specialist assumes charge of park operations in the absence of the Park Manager and/or Assistant Park Manager.

Annual performance goals will be set for the Park Specialist. Park Specialists are subject to transfer within the Regional Park system.

Hiring Salary Range: $54,790.53 - $60,119.25

Assist with management of personnel:

• Plan, direct, and control the work of groups of employees in the operation and maintenance of park facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Determine workload, assign priorities, schedule employees, and allocate resources.
• Promote high levels of work performance and employee morale.
• Supervise, train, and manage staff (park, waterpark, climbing course) according to training and certification requirements.

Assist with management of facility operations:

• Monitor operation to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Operate all facilities and fill in all positions as needed.
• Apply and interpret safety standards and ensure compliance.
• Ensure security of park facilities and assets.
• May be assigned temporarily to other parks.

Assist with management of facility and grounds maintenance:

• Inspect park facilities, equipment, and grounds for hazards and for adherence to NOVA Parks standards.
• Identify maintenance problems and hazards, initiate corrective action or refer to Park Manager.
• Operate various pieces of maintenance equipment as needed and perform related work including manual labor.

Assist with development and management of budget:

• Recommend operations, maintenance, and development items for budget.
• Interpret and apply NOVA Parks policies and procedures to meet personnel, budget, property management, and general service needs of the park.

Assist with establishment and maintenance of positive public relations program:

• Foster a positive public image for the park and NOVA Parks.
• Provide information to the public and special interest groups through presentations and other means through accurate, courteous, and diplomatic communications.
• Maintain effective relationships with groups such as vendors, local law enforcement, and special user groups.
• Encourage visitor comments; investigate and respond to complaints.

Assist with performance of administrative duties:

• Investigate accidents, thefts, vandalism, and other violations and file appropriate reports in a timely manner.
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping.
• Implement Standard Operating Procedures including safety inspections, cash handling, and other related items.
• Assist with reservations and admissions processes to meet accounting standards.
• Represent NOVA Parks as designated legal authority in providing testimony and evidence in court.
• Prepare and maintain various business, personnel, and administrative reports and records.
• Initiate and monitor standard user permits; assist with the development of special contractual agreements.

Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in park management or closely related field preferred or an exceptional combination of education, experience, and training that is equivalent to a four-year degree.

Physical: Non-manual and manual work with strength and dexterity necessary to perform all required tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions in office and outdoor settings; will perform heavy manual labor in all weather conditions, lift items at or greater than 80 pounds, climb ladders, use tools, and operate equipment, comfort and ability to work at heights up to 40 feet in a harness for extended periods of time.

Experience: One year of responsible experience in parks or conservation work, or any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience which provides:

• Must be minimum age of 21.
• Experience belaying and climbing preferred.
• Knowledge and experience with ropes course operations preferred.
• Knowledge of principles, methods, and practices involved in park management.
• Knowledge and experience in personnel management.
• Ability to identify and isolate problems, and to initiate appropriate actions.
• Ability to deal effectively with the public and special interest groups and provide a strong, positive public relations program.
• Ability to interpret and explain NOVA Parks policies, rules, and procedures to employees and to the public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, with ability to prepare and present accurate reports.
• Ability to acquire a working knowledge of NOVA Parks, its development, traditions, and policies.
• Working knowledge of the materials, equipment, and procedures involved with park maintenance.
• Ability to…