What are the responsibilities and job description for the Natural Resources Specialist II-Paleontology Specialist (15178, Grade 24) position at Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission?
Description
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a leader in historic and nature preservation and manages several historic sites, museums and programs that celebrate Prince George's County's rich history, culture, and nature. Resources are managed by the Natural and Historic Resources Division (NHRD)
The Paleontology Unit is seeking a Paleontology Specialist for its countywide program. The Paleontology Unit is responsible for preserving, studying, and interpreting the paleontological resources managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County. Staff and volunteers conduct their work through excavations and public programs at Dinosaur Park, home to a rare Cretaceous period fossil deposit. From the bones and teeth of the Maryland State dinosaur Astrodon johnstoni to the remains of early flowering plants, the fossils discovered help scientists reconstruct our region’s pre-historic past.
We are seeking an experienced person to serve as the unit’s Paleontology Specialist in developing a countywide register of deposits. They will be responsible for integrating fossil research into all areas of the Paleontology experience. They will report directly to the Paleontology Manager. Time worked will be divided between the office and lab in Upper Marlboro, Dinosaur Park in Laurel, and fieldwork through the county. Attention to detail and excellent communication is vital for every aspect of the position.
The successful candidate will have knowledge, background, and experience in paleontology, natural history, and the Cretaceous period. They will have extensive experience in research, collections management, public programming, exhibits, educational programming, technical writing, and public speaking. They will possess excellent time management skills and work collaboratively with others. The work expectation is on-site Tuesday – Saturday and occasional nights if necessary. This is a part-time career position and works 37.5 hours per week.
The budgeted salary range for this position is $30.71 - $42.55 hourly.
A successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the NHRD’s strategic pillars in their professional work:
Research/Analysis
Classification Specification: Natural Resources Specialist II
May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor. We will do what we can to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at to request accommodation.
Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or(Maryland Relay 7-1-1)
M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.
THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION
2025 Benefit Summary For Merit System Employees
The following benefit summary is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor should be construed as an employment agreement with the M-NCPPC, implied or actual. It is not all-inclusive and is subject to change. Benefits listed are extended to all Merit System employees of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). All plans are optional except the Defined Benefit and Long-Term Disability plans.
Eligibility
You have 45 days from your hire date to elect your benefits. Your coverage begins on the first of the month following receipt of your enrollment forms and required documentation.
Retirement Programs
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a leader in historic and nature preservation and manages several historic sites, museums and programs that celebrate Prince George's County's rich history, culture, and nature. Resources are managed by the Natural and Historic Resources Division (NHRD)
The Paleontology Unit is seeking a Paleontology Specialist for its countywide program. The Paleontology Unit is responsible for preserving, studying, and interpreting the paleontological resources managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County. Staff and volunteers conduct their work through excavations and public programs at Dinosaur Park, home to a rare Cretaceous period fossil deposit. From the bones and teeth of the Maryland State dinosaur Astrodon johnstoni to the remains of early flowering plants, the fossils discovered help scientists reconstruct our region’s pre-historic past.
We are seeking an experienced person to serve as the unit’s Paleontology Specialist in developing a countywide register of deposits. They will be responsible for integrating fossil research into all areas of the Paleontology experience. They will report directly to the Paleontology Manager. Time worked will be divided between the office and lab in Upper Marlboro, Dinosaur Park in Laurel, and fieldwork through the county. Attention to detail and excellent communication is vital for every aspect of the position.
The successful candidate will have knowledge, background, and experience in paleontology, natural history, and the Cretaceous period. They will have extensive experience in research, collections management, public programming, exhibits, educational programming, technical writing, and public speaking. They will possess excellent time management skills and work collaboratively with others. The work expectation is on-site Tuesday – Saturday and occasional nights if necessary. This is a part-time career position and works 37.5 hours per week.
The budgeted salary range for this position is $30.71 - $42.55 hourly.
A successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the NHRD’s strategic pillars in their professional work:
- Enhance the Visitor Experience: Quantity and Quality
- Leaving a Legacy: Transforming Education into Advocacy
- Strengthening Inclusivity, Diversity, and Belonging
- Acting with Integrity, Respect, and Trust
Research/Analysis
- Collaborates with Paleontology Manager to plan and develop a comprehensive countywide paleontology management plan. Designs, develops, coordinates, and implements natural resource projects; develops, plans, and designs protocols and procedures.
- Conducts scientific research and analysis in support of paleontology programs.
- Reviews and develops assessment reports and prepares maps of fossil deposit locations. Instructs staff on field surveys and analyzing photos of paleontological resources.
- Prepares correspondence, documents, and reports from specimen and field data.
- Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders on information exchange, coordination, instruction, guidance/advice to achieve Paleontology goals.
- Coordinates public and in-house inquiries, requests, research information, and correspondence.
- Coordinates with Paleontology team to design and deliver onsite and offsite programs to schools and community groups.
- Assists in the development and implementation of tours/programs at Dinosaur Park and around the county for audiences of all ages and abilities, creating inclusive programming for underserved communities.
- Works internally with other Divisions and facilities to plan and implement programs throughout the year, including lectures, exhibits, interactives, interpretive programs, etc.
- Researches and develops interpretive programs based on new fossil discoveries at Dinosaur Park and throughout the county.
- Assists in lab management to ensure fossil specimens are properly bagged and labeled for transportation to the Upper Marlboro laboratory; maintains the fossil collection database.
- Conducts public lab days and teaches volunteers/students paleontological lab methods.
- Leads and supervises research volunteers/interns on their projects.
- Assists the Paleontology Unit with maintaining public education and outreach materials including web and social media content, media releases, and print materials (brochures, signs, etc.).
- Edits technical reports to turn into written and visual materials for presentations to staff, community groups, and the public.
- Assists Paleontology Manager with radio/television interviews and presentations to staff, community groups, organizations, and other agencies.
- Prepares research reports, database reports and other relevant reports for monthly reporting.
- Established partnerships/collaborations with professional paleontologists.
- Superior communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Highly organized and able to successfully manage multiple deadlines and tasks.
- Team player and collaborator.
- Able to listen actively and be responsive to guest needs and expectations.
- Proven ability to work positively with organizations, schools, and community groups.
- Strong dedication to excellent customer service, both internal and external.
- Must be computer savvy with experience using Microsoft Word, Excel and willing to learn other software.
- MA/MS with knowledge of the Cretaceous period.
- Knowledge of and skills in using collections software.
- High aptitude of emotional intelligence.
- Proven problem-solving skills.
- Track record of success in a creative, fluid, and dynamic work environment
- Knowledge in education, programming, exhibit development/innovation.
- Fluency in Spanish, both speaking and writing, a plus.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, Forestry, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Fisheries Management or any related field.
- Three (3) years of progressively responsible natural resources or wildlife management experience or related experience.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, which together total seven (7) years.
- Valid driver’s license in accordance with both State and Commission rules and regulations. Driver’s license must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit the employee’s ability to drive Commission vehicles or perform driving duties required by the position of assignment.
- Pass Commission medical examination.
- Depending on area of assignment, the ability to acquire related program certification (e.g., pesticide certification, trapping license, boating license).
Classification Specification: Natural Resources Specialist II
May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor. We will do what we can to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at to request accommodation.
Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or(Maryland Relay 7-1-1)
M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.
THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION
2025 Benefit Summary For Merit System Employees
The following benefit summary is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor should be construed as an employment agreement with the M-NCPPC, implied or actual. It is not all-inclusive and is subject to change. Benefits listed are extended to all Merit System employees of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). All plans are optional except the Defined Benefit and Long-Term Disability plans.
Eligibility
You have 45 days from your hire date to elect your benefits. Your coverage begins on the first of the month following receipt of your enrollment forms and required documentation.
Retirement Programs
- Defined Benefit Plan (Mandatory Participation) – Plan E excludes FOP members.
- Deferred Compensation ICMA-RC 457 plan (Optional)
- Traditional and Roth IRAs (Optional)
- Medical
- Kaiser Permanente Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) with Prescription Plan – (15%)
- UnitedHealthcare Select Exclusive Provider Organization Health Plan (EPO) – (20%)
- UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus Point of Service (POS) – (20%)
- Prescription – CVS Caremark – (15%)
- Dental – Delta Dental PPO and DeltaCare USA HMO – (20%)
- Vision – EyeMed – (80% of Low Option plan paid by Commission. Any balance paid by employee.)
- Low, moderate, and high options are available. Frequency of covered services differs.
- Medical Account – Maximum annual contribution: $3,200
- Dependent Care Account – Maximum annual contribution: $5,000
- Employee Pays 20%: Commission Pays 80% (FOP Members Pay 100%)
- Benefits paid at 66 2/3% of base salary, maximum of $6,000/month
- Benefits paid at 66 2/3% of base salary that exceeds $108,000; capped at $216,000
- Two (2) times base salary; maximum benefit is $200,000 for each
- Automatic coverage with opt-out provision
- Supplemental – 1,2,3,4, or 5 times base salary; maximum benefit is $750,000
- Spouse/Dependent Combination - $10,000/$5,000, $20,000/$10,000, or $30,000/$15,000
- Employees have 60 days from date of hire to enroll.
- Employee contributes 8 leave hours each year
- Annually covers up to 688 hours for own serious medical condition, and 480 hours for parental responsibilities (birthadoption or foster care), and 80-160 hours for serious medical condition of an immediate family member
- Annual: 15 days per year
- Personal: 3 days per year (12-month waiting period)
- Sick: 15 days per year
- Holidays: 11 days per year
- Credit Union
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Legal Services Plan
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Wellness Program
- Work-Life Program
Salary : $3,200 - $108,000
