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
Natural Resource Specialist II
Volunteer and Resource Specialist
Open Until Filled
State Parks - Seven Bends State Park
Apply Now
Hourly Rate: $15.00 - $20.00
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.
Seven Bends State Park is accepting applications for a Volunteer and Resource Specialist position.
Job Summary:
Primary duties will be to assist park leadership and supervise individuals and groups in performing resource management activities. The position will also coordinate the park’s complex volunteer program.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist park leadership
- Supervise seasonal staff, interns, and volunteers in performing resource management activities including invasive species treatment, prescribed burns, trail work, GIS data collection and management, boundary marking, plant and wildlife surveys, habitat restoration, operating and maintaining equipment, and other tasks.
- Will also provide state park/system-wide support in GIS data management and mapping.
- Work in a variety of outdoor conditions and terrain, including heat, cold, rain, humidity, insects, dust, etc.
- Maintain the volunteer database and records, post volunteer opportunities, and distribute a volunteer newsletter.
- Requires regular work on weekends, holidays, and evenings.
- Organize and prepare projects, and develop, plan, facilitate, schedule, and coordinate special events.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Basic knowledge of resource management issues, practices, and procedures.
- Knowledge of regional tree/ non-woody plant species and ecosystems; tree and plant identification skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Valid driver’s license required
Note: Position requires Virginia Registered Technician Certification (pesticide) License; if not currently licensed, it will need to be obtained within 6 months. DCR Sawyer Apprentice qualification or the ability to obtain it within 6 months
Position requires the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Physical demands associated with this position include extensive walking, lifting, bending, stooping, etc., and carrying heavy weighted materials (up to 50 pounds).
Additional Considerations:
- Knowledge and experience using GIS software.
- Experience or demonstrated ability to operate, organize, and maintain tools and equipment associated with resource management, such as trail tools, pesticide application equipment, utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), small gas-powered engines, etc.
- Experience training and leading volunteers, interns, or staff.
- NWCG (FFT2) crew-level certification.
- Education or experience in parks and recreation, education, communication, marketing, or public administration.
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.
🌲 Explore Virginia State Parks — On Us!
As a DCR employee, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to the natural beauty and outdoor experiences that make Virginia’s State Parks extraordinary — with free admission, special discounts, and perks that make every visit memorable.
Employee benefits include:
- Free parking and admission to all Virginia State Parks.
- Overnight stay discounts for DCR classified, retired, and wage staff (after six months of service):
- Free camping outside the Memorial Day to Labor Day season for sites accommodating up to six people.
- Free Sunday–Thursday camping (excluding the night before holidays) during the Memorial Day–Labor Day period.
- 50% off cabins (up to three bedrooms) outside the Memorial Day–Labor Day season for up to 14 nights. Two nights minimum required. Bunkhouses, camping cabins, and yurts are included; one-night yurt stays receive a 25% discount.
Join us and make Virginia’s great outdoors part of your life — it’s one of the many ways we show our appreciation for the people who make DCR’s mission possible!
Apply Now
Department of Conservation and Recreation
