Job openings at DCR

DCR is looking for talented people to fill positions listed below. Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date.

Generally applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.

Full-time (salaried) employment offers

A choice of healthcare plans.
Vacation, family, personal and sick leave.
A retirement plan.
A sickness and disability plan.
Employer-paid life insurance.
Deferred compensation with employer match.

Certain positions require a criminal background check, a conflict of interest financial statement or both. Law-enforcement positions require a fingerprint-based FBI investigation. DCR is an EEO/AA/ADA Employer.

For seasonal and hourly-wage positions at state parks, contact the particular park for details.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, all new hires must complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Executive branch agencies are required to use the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

For additional information on these openings, contact hr@dcr.virginia.gov. Find positions available throughout Virginia at Virginia Jobs.

Job openings at DCR

Trades Technician III

Resource Ranger

Open Until Filled

State Parks - Natural Bridge State Park

Apply Now

Hourly Range: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Join Our Team at the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation!

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hiring! Join us in preserving what people care about most – access to the outdoors, natural habitats, open spaces, clean water, and safe infrastructure.

Natural Bridge State Park is accepting applications for a Resource Ranger position.

Job Summary:

This position will work with minimum supervision, prioritize tasks, and interact positively with the public. Duties entail maintaining and improving park trails to ensure safe and enjoyable visitor access. Duties include clearing debris, repairing trail surfaces, and installing or maintaining signage and boundary markers. Performs routine outdoor maintenance such as fence repair, vegetation management, and upkeep of park facilities and natural areas. Assists with identifying and controlling invasive plant species through manual removal and the safe, targeted application of herbicides in accordance with environmental guidelines. Supports conservation efforts while helping preserve the park’s natural beauty and ecological health.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Managing invasive plant species through identification, monitoring, and removal, including the careful and regulated application of herbicides
Maintaining trails by clearing fallen trees and brush, repairing erosion damage, and ensuring paths are clearly marked and safe for visitors
Inspecting and maintaining park boundaries, including repairing fences, replacing boundary markers, and ensuring property lines are clearly identified
Performing general outdoor maintenance such as vegetation control, minor infrastructure repairs, and upkeep of natural areas and facilities
Other tasks throughout the season may include mowing, painting, sawyer work, carpentry, vehicle, and equipment maintenance.
Assist with volunteer-based projects as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience in outdoor labor, landscaping, forestry, park maintenance, or a related field
Ability to perform physically demanding work in varying weather conditions (lifting, hiking, using hand and power tools)
Basic knowledge of trail maintenance, vegetation management, or general groundskeeping practices
Familiarity with or willingness to learn identification and control of invasive plant species
Ability to safely use tools and equipment such as chainsaws, brush cutters, and hand tools
Must be at least 18 years old
Must possess a valid driver's license.

Additional Considerations:

Possession of, or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment, a registered technician license or a commercial applicator license

Special Instructions:

Background Check: Employment in all Virginia State Parks positions is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.
Employment Eligibility: Selected candidates must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.
Driver’s License Requirement: A valid State Driver's License is required if operating a state or personal vehicle for agency business.
Work Requirements: Wage/seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits and are limited to 1,500 hours from May 1 to April 30.

Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Park experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT

DCR employees are encouraged to visit Virginia State Parks! Check out our employee discounts.

Free parking or admission to all Virginia State Parks.
DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service) are entitled to overnight facility discounts, such as:
- Free camping outside of the Memorial Day weekend to the Labor Day period in sites designed for up to six people.
- Free camping Sunday night through Thursday night (excluding the night before a holiday) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
- Fifty percent discount on cabins (up to 3 bedrooms) outside of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, for a maximum of 14 nights. All reservations require a two-night minimum. Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts are included; one-night yurt stays only receive a 25% discount.

Apply Now