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Scientists In Parks Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Gardener

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$42K - $53K/yr

Parks & Recreation Division: Landscape Management Opening Date: 06/12/2026 Closing Date: 7/14/2026 ... Associates degree in horticulture, plant science, or related field preferred or horticulture ...

Police Officer

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$40K/yr

... in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position, such as ... enforcement in parks, forests, or other natural resource or recreational environments; in ...

Medical Laboratory Scientist 2

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$32.30 - $52.65/hr

Exclusive savings opportunities to in-store events, theme parks, discounts, movie tickets and local offerings and so much more Medical Laboratory Scientist 2 Job Responsibilities: * Reviews technical ...

Exclusive savings opportunities to in-store events, theme parks, discounts, movie tickets and local offerings and so much more Medical Laboratory Scientist 2 Job Responsibilities: * Reviews technical ...

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Scientists In Parks information

See Virginia salary details

$33.1K

$75.1K

$116.3K

How much do scientists in parks jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientists in parks in Virginia is $75,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Scientists in Parks?

Scientists in Parks (SIP) is a program that places early career professionals, students, and recent graduates in temporary positions within the National Park Service. Participants work on natural resource management, research, and science-based projects in national parks across the United States. The program provides hands-on experience and training in fields such as ecology, geology, environmental science, and cultural resource management. SIP positions are designed to support park needs while offering valuable career development opportunities for aspiring scientists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scientists In Parks participant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientists In Parks participant, you typically need a background in natural sciences or environmental studies, with relevant coursework or a degree in biology, ecology, geology, or a similar field. Familiarity with field research tools, GIS mapping software, data collection methods, and sometimes certifications like Wilderness First Aid are important. Strong observational skills, adaptability, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in diverse outdoor settings and collaborative projects. These skills ensure accurate scientific contributions, safety, and meaningful engagement with park resource management and public outreach.

How do Scientists in Parks typically collaborate with National Park Service staff and other stakeholders during their projects?

Scientists in Parks usually work closely with National Park Service (NPS) staff, including park rangers, resource managers, and interpretive teams, to ensure their research aligns with park management goals. They may also coordinate with external partners such as universities, community organizations, and volunteers. Regular meetings, fieldwork, and presentations are common ways these collaborations happen, fostering a team-oriented environment and promoting knowledge sharing. This collaborative structure not only enhances research outcomes but also provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

What is the difference between Scientists In Parks vs Environmental Scientists?

AspectScientists In ParksEnvironmental Scientists
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in ecology, biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in environmental science, ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentNational or state parks, outdoor settings, fieldworkResearch labs, government agencies, fieldwork in various environments
Employer & IndustryPark services, conservation agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Scientists In Parks and Environmental Scientists both focus on studying ecosystems and conservation. However, Scientists In Parks typically work directly within park environments, emphasizing fieldwork and conservation efforts in outdoor settings. Environmental Scientists often work in labs or offices, conducting research that supports environmental policies and solutions across various industries. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are vital for environmental protection, but their work settings and specific focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Scientists In Parks jobs in Virginia? For Scientists In Parks jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientists In Parks jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Scientists In Parks jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Scientists In Parks jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Scientists In Parks job openings:
Infographic showing various Scientists In Parks job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,078 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

$42K - $53K/yr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Roanoke is seeking a Landscape Gardener to perform skilled landscape and turf maintenance including planting, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, watering and spraying a wide variety of flowers, bulbs, hanging baskets, shrubs, trees, ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses and other types of plant material as well as mowing, weed-eating, edging, leaf mulching, aerating, fertilizing, and seeding turf and lawn areas. The successful candidate will install and renovate landscapes and turf; assist in transplanting/propagating seedlings, cuttings, slips and plants in a greenhouse and/or field beds, including preparing soil as directed by supervisor; possess strong plant identification, characteristic and maintenance knowledge; keep parks, greenways and green spaces clean by removing fallen limbs, debris and trash; and operate heavy and light equipment for snow/ice removal. They also must have some knowledge of the operation of a wide variety of mowers, industry specific power equipment and vehicles; the ability to skillfully operate and do routine daily service and maintenance on this equipment is preferred; be able to learn to operate other equipment such as front-end loader, forklift, bobcat and tractor; the ability to perform word processing, record keeping and report preparation on a computer and effectively use basic office equipment including computers, calculators, copiers, cell phones and mobile radios; and the ability to work independently or as team member.

Associates degree in horticulture, plant science, or related field preferred or horticulture certification from applicable program, or experience and/or training in horticulture, landscape maintenance or related field; or equivalent combination or education or experience is required. Must be able to obtain a Class B Commercial Learner's Permit License with air brake and tanker endorsements prior to starting work, and be able to obtain a full CDL license within 3 months. Must be able to obtain a Registered Technician Spraying License within 3 months and the Fertilizer Applicator Certification within 12 months.

The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment.

By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is a non-exempt position. Examples of Duties SUMMARY Performs skilled landscape and turf maintenance in parks, greenways and other city properties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Performs skilled landscape maintenance (planting, renovating, pruning, weeding, cleaning, mulching, watering and fertilizing) on a wide variety of ornamental trees, shrubs, grasses, ground covers, perennials and annuals Possess strong plant identification and maintenance knowledge at different phases and growth Assists in transplanting/propagating seedlings, cuttings, slips and plants in a greenhouse and/or field beds, including preparing soil Applies pesticides, herbicides and insecticides as directed and completes required documentation Performs skilled turf maintenance including mowing, weed-eating, edging, aerating, fertilizing, seeding and leaf mulching Assists in cleaning park, greenway and other city property by removing trash, limbs, debris, mud, etc Performs routine minor facilities and equipment maintenance Operates a wide variety of mowers, industry specific power equipment and vehicles.

Operates heavy and/or light equipment during snow/ice removal operations Assists in the set-up/tear down for city events in parks, greenways and other properties Must be able to effectively operate basic office equipment including computers, calculators, copiers, cell phones and mobile radios SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES May supervise seasonal staff. Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Associates degree in horticulture, plant science, or related field preferred or horticulture certification from applicable program, or experience and/or training in horticulture, landscape maintenance or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Supplemental Information LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondences, and memos.

Ability to write correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to citizens, and other employees of the organization. MATHEMATICAL SKILLS Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

Ability to calculate fertilizer and pesticide application rates. Ability to calibrate spraying equipment correctly. REASONING ABILITY Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions as well as landscape drawings and plans.

Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Minimum Class B Commercial Driver's Learner's Permit with Tanker Endorsement Must be able to obtain, within 6 months, a Registered Technician Pesticide License Must be able to obtain, within 1 year, a Fertilizer Applicator Certification PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and fumes or airborne particles.

The employee is occasionally exposed to vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This is a job description and not an individualized position description.

A job description defines the general character and scope of duties and responsibilities of all positions in a job classification, but it is not intended to describe and does not necessarily list the essential job functions for a given position in a classification.