JOB TITLE: NATURAL RESOURCE PROGRAM SPECIALIST 1

JOB CODE: 54900

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Natural Resource Program series describes work in the development, evaluation, and promotion of natural resource programs or projects.

DEFINITION: This is professional work planning, developing, and implementing a small-scale natural resource program or project, or a component of a large-scale natural resource program or project designed to manage, protect, conserve, promote, and enhance natural resources within Pennsylvania.

An employee in this job performs research, conducts studies, and analyzes data to develop a natural resource program or project or educate the public on a program or project. Work involves collecting, compiling, and analyzing data used in drafting policies, standards, regulations, operating procedures, and educational materials; developing the scope of projects; and conducting environmental reviews and feasibility studies to prepare forecasts and reports detailing conservation initiatives, environmental concerns, stewardship issues, and economic and eco-tourism impacts; developing regionally-based education programs and products for public and school audiences; and providing recommendations for the development of short-term and long-range goals for program initiatives. Work also involves providing technical guidance, advice, direction, and assistance to field personnel; planning, scheduling, and conducting training courses and workshops; and working with field personnel to implement program initiatives. Work is performed under general direction and is reviewed for adherence to established policies, procedures, standards, and objectives.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Develops and implements small-scale natural resource programs in the areas of aquatic vegetation control, lake management, agricultural leases, right-of-way and road use agreements, regional greenways and open space planning, and the DCNR Volunteer Program.

• Develops and implements components of large-scale programs such as PA Wilds; Rails to Trails; wildlife habitat, wild plant, or wetland management; ecological communities; and invasive species.

• Develops small-scale interpretive projects such as wayside exhibits, fact sheets, and youth programs, or regionally based educational programs and products for public and school audiences.

• Assists in the development of large-scale interpretive or environmental education programs or projects, such as regional wayside or other exhibits, statewide or regional publications, workshops, and recreational programs.

• Prepares studies and reports of the impacts of proposed program changes and prepares recommendations for a course of action.

• Develops and conducts feasibility studies and project plans for new projects and initiatives.

• Recommends the repair, servicing, replacement, or purchase of field equipment used for resource management projects, environmental education programs, and exhibits.

• Meets with federal, state, and local government entities, conservation districts, advocacy groups, constituents, and other groups to monitor effectiveness of programs.

• Reviews and implements program performance indicators, conducts evaluations of the implementation of field programs, and prepares reports of findings.

• Evaluates training needs and prepares and delivers training on program-specific subjects for field staff and the public.

• Prepares letters, reports, memoranda, and correspondence.

• Performs the full range of supervisory duties.

• An employee is this job may participate in the performance of subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of natural resource conservation, outdoor recreation, and interpretive learning principles and practices.

• Knowledge of the objectives, specialized programs, and services offered by natural resource organizations and related agencies.

• Knowledge of the impact of social, economic, and ecological factors on the planning and development of recreation and conservation programs.

• Knowledge of technical and educational writing principles.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to collect and analyze written and numerical information.

• Ability to analyze, coordinate, and assist in the implementation of program rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills and Abilities.)

• Two years of professional experience in natural resource management or natural resource education; and a bachelor's degree in natural resource management, parks and recreation, education, biology, forestry, ecology, geosciences, environmental sciences, or a closely related field;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.