Park Services Specialist - 37000881

State of Florida • Ormond Beach, FL

13d • Onsite

About The Position

An opportunity is anticipated for a self-motivated, hard-working individual, to fill a Park Services Specialist position at Tomoka State Park located in Ormond Beach, Florida. Tomoka Basin State Parks include 5 unique parks, Addison Blockhouse, Bulow Creek, Bulow Plantation Ruins, Haw Creek State Park and Tomoka State Park. This position is responsible for establishing and maintaining resource management activities and for establishing and maintaining good public relations and for carrying out a public information program, developing and coordinating private and governmental manpower and financial support systems, visitor service programs, and professional training programs for the park.

Requirements

• KNOWLEDGE OF: Florida ecosystems and resource management techniques required to manage/restore natural communities; Cultural resource preservation and restoration techniques; Good public relations; Effective verbal and written communication principles and techniques; Computer operations and related software.
• SKILL IN: Communicating effectively verbally and in writing; Operating a cash register and reconciling receipts; Accurately preparing reports; Interacting with all internal and external customers and the general public in a professional, tactful and courteous manner; Performing grounds and building maintenance which includes but is not limited to mowing, weed eating, pressure washing, painting basic plumbing, basic electrical and basic carpentry; Utilizing power tools, including but not limited to, chainsaws and drills; utilizing heavy equipment including tractors; utilizing GIS/GPS.
• ABILITY TO: Participate in Resource Management tasks, including but not limited to, prescribed fire activities, non-native plant removal which may include application of herbicide; Clean park facilities, including but not limited to, cleaning restrooms and picking up trash ; Research, plan, and prepare educational, interpretive, and promotional materials and programs; Work independently with minimal supervision ; Communicate effectively both in writing and verbally; Plan, organize and coordinate work assignments; Establish and maintain effective working relationship with others; Understand and apply rules, directives, policies, laws and regulations; Conduct routine inspections, identify and investigate problems; Work outdoors in inclement weather; Perform physical labor; lift 40lbs and assist in transporting items or other supplies 100lbs or more.
• Valid driver’s license
• Successful completion of Annual Moderate pack test
• Successfully complete background and fingerprint checks
• Passing of moderate pack test must be completed prior to employment, and annually thereafter . Prior to being hired, applicants will be given a single opportunity to take and successfully complete a supervised moderate pack test at a date and location to be announced. Pack test requires applicant to complete a two mile walk while carrying 25 pounds in under 30 minutes.
• This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility. Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.

Responsibilities

• RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: Participates in the planning and implementation of resource management activities, applying established techniques to manage, restore, and sustain natural communities. Assists in all aspects of prescribed fire operations and the control of invasive plant and animal species. Identifies biological communities and understands the ecological processes necessary for their long-term health and maintenance. Monitors, maintains, and protects the park’s natural, cultural, historic, and archaeological resources. Implement vegetation and wildlife management plans, utilizing both natural and chemical methods to maintain appropriate species balance. Carries out site restoration initiatives, including reforestation and erosion control projects, and supports the implementation of water resource management plans. Collects, documents, and maintains accurate resource management data to support planning and compliance efforts.
• MAINTENANCE: Performs routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance on park structures, facilities, equipment, and grounds to ensure safe and efficient operations. Conducts regular inspections to verify maintenance standards are met and identifies needed repairs or improvements. Maintains the cleanliness and overall appearance of park grounds and facilities. Performs upkeep of trails, firebreaks, fences, gates, informational signage, and park roads to ensure visitor safety and accessibility. Ensures all resource management equipment, including fire trucks, boats, UTVs, sprayers, and other field equipment, is properly serviced, fully operational, and maintained in accordance with safety standards.
• VISITOR SERVICES: Plans and implements community outreach initiatives to enhance public awareness and understanding of resource management and protection objectives. Serves as a representative of the park and the Florida Park Service in interactions with partner agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders. Provides accurate information regarding Park facilities, services, and recreational opportunities to promote public use, enjoyment, and education. Greet visitors, respond to inquiries, and offer clear directions and assistance in a professional and courteous manner. Addresses and works to resolve visitor concerns while fostering positive public relations. Designs and delivers educational and interpretive programs, including presentations, guided walks, and other outreach activities, to increase public appreciation of the park’s natural and cultural resources, as well as other unit-specific services as assigned.
• ADMINISTRATION: Prepares and maintains a variety of administrative forms and reports related to visitation, vehicle usage, purchasing, and incident documentation. Operates office equipment, including telephones, park radio systems, computers, and other standard office technology. Performs purchasing and fiscal functions in accordance with established policies and procedures. Collects fees, processes cash register transactions, and reconciles receipts to ensure accurate financial accountability. Responds to correspondence, maintains organized park records and files, and ensures proper documentation retention. Plans, organizes, and facilitates in-service training programs to support staff development and meet operational needs.
• PROTECTION: Conducts routine patrols and security inspections to ensure compliance with the Park Protection Plan and the safety of visitors, staff, and resources. Open and secures park facilities as required to maintain proper access and security. Interprets and enforces park rules and regulations related to the protection and use of natural and cultural resources and park facilities, promoting a safe and enjoyable visitor experience. Maintains accountability and security of assigned cash funds in accordance with established financial procedures.
• OTHER: Performs other related duties as required.

Benefits

• Annual and Sick Leave benefits
• Nine paid holidays and one Personal Holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance options
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions (For more information, please click www.myfrs.com )
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition waivers
• For a more complete list of benefits, visit www.mybenefits.myflorida.com

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed