PARK SERVICES SPECIALIST - 37000671 1 - $38124 per YEAR

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the principal environmental management agency for the state of Florida, dedicated to protecting the state's air, water, and land. DEP is renowned for its innovative approach to environmental stewardship and sustainability, advancing Florida's position as a world leader in natural resource protection while simultaneously supporting economic growth. The department values its workforce by encouraging continuous learning, fostering innovation, and supporting its employees in managing complex projects efficiently. Employed by the State of Florida, the Department offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, making it a prestigious and rewarding place to nurture a career dedicated to environmental conservation and public service. This Park Services Specialist position, based at Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa, FL, offers an incredible opportunity to join DEP's mission on the frontline of natural and cultural resource management. The role is a full-time, career service position with an annual salary of $38,117.16, emphasizing a balance of direct visitor engagement, resource preservation, maintenance, and administrative responsibilities. The Parks Specialist will work with three distinct locations under Hillsborough Island Administration: Hillsborough River State Park, Fort Foster State Historic Site, and Ybor City Museum State Park. These sites feature a blend of natural scenic beauty, historical landmarks like the Fort Foster replica from the Second Seminole War, and culturally rich museums interpreting Florida's heritage. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering excellent visitor services, including educating the public on the wide array of facilities and services, answering questions, resolving complaints, and enhancing visitor experiences through interpretive programs, multimedia presentations, guided tours, and special event management. A key aspect of this role involves cultural resource management, where the specialist will apply best practices in preserving and cataloging culturally significant artifacts and historic buildings, contributing to grant writing and acquiring donations to support historic preservation and educational outreach. Maintenance duties are equally critical, requiring the specialist to construct, repair, and maintain park infrastructure such as buildings, trails, boardwalks, and picnic areas while ensuring overall cleanliness and operational readiness of the park grounds, vehicles, and equipment. Administrative responsibility includes preparing detailed reports on a variety of subjects encompassing visitor use, incidents, wildlife observations, and equipment operations, as well as managing correspondence and handling communication tools effectively. Protection duties focus on enforcing park rules to safeguard natural, historical, and archaeological resources, ensuring visitors enjoy these assets safely and respectfully. This multifaceted role demands a self-motivated professional with excellent interpersonal communication skills, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and the physical capability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including rotating shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. The Department places significant emphasis on compliance with state regulations and cultural preservation standards set by the Secretary of the Interior. Candidates must successfully complete a Level 2 State and National criminal background check and meet all grooming and uniform standards required by the Department. This role also values effective teamwork, public speaking ability, and a passion for environmental education and stewardship. Working for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection means more than just a job; it is a chance to be part of a dedicated team committed to preserving Florida's natural and cultural heritage for future generations. The agency offers a supportive work environment with robust training opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, ensuring employees are equipped and motivated to contribute meaningfully to the state's environmental goals.

• Possess a valid driver's license
• successfully complete Level 2 State and National criminal history check
• adhere to grooming standards including uniform, hair, body art and piercing policies
• have the ability to work rotating shifts including nights, weekends and holidays
• be capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• possess communication skills to interact professionally, tactfully and courteously with the public
• ability to perform skilled trade functions
• comply with all applicable rules, directives, policies, laws and regulations
• capable of performing inspections, investigating problems and taking corrective actions
• must be physically capable of working in outdoor environments and operating motorized vehicles
• commitment to safety and protection of natural and cultural resources