Senior Planner; Interpretive Specialist

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION & FORESTRY

ANTICIPATED VACANCY

Opening Date:October 09, 2026

Closing Date:October 26, 2026

Grade/Admin Unit:25/Pro/Tech

Job Class Code: 0603
Salary:$20.97 - $28.85/Hourly

Position Number:

Position Type: Full Time

Location: Augusta

BRIEF

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Interpretive Specialist is the Bureau’s lead position on education and outreach regarding natural history. The position provides leadership, technical expertise, planning, coordination, training, and project support for the interpretation of natural resources. The position works with staff across all BPL divisions, with an emphasis on supporting interpretative activities for State Parks. The position researches and develops interpretive strategies; plans and evaluates educational programs and visitor experiences;

assists with the design and development of interpretive signs, panels, exhibits, maps, digital resources, and other media; and provides interpretive training to BPL staff.

• Provides leadership, direction, technical assistance, and guidance to Bureau staff regarding interpretation and environmental education.
• Researches and interprets natural, scientific, and recreational resources to identify interpretive opportunities and develop engaging educational content.
• Develops, implements, and evaluates statewide and site-specific interpretive plans, programs, projects, events, and initiatives for Bureau lands and facilities.
• Develops, reviews, and coordinates interpretive media, including brochures, guides, maps, exhibits, digital content, and other materials that communicate natural resource information.
• Develops and delivers interpretive and environmental education programs and training, including special events, educational programs, staff training, and assistance with Ranger Academy Interpretation.
• Manages multiple projects simultaneously and ensures work is completed effectively and within established deadlines and available resources.
• Researches and develops grant applications and other funding proposals to support interpretation, environmental education, exhibits, and visitor services.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of interpretation, environmental education, and visitor engagement.
• Knowledge of interpretive planning and design, including exhibits, signs, panels, brochures, and digital media.
• Ability to research, synthesize, and translate complex information into clear, accurate, and engaging natural resource educational material.
• Ability to develop and deliver effective interpretive programs, presentations, and training.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A Bachelor’s Degree in the natural sciences, outdoor recreation, education, or a related field, and four (4) years of related work experience. Equivalent related experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead” as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

• Work-Life Balance
  – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays
  ,
  12 days of sick leave
  , and3+ weeks of vacation leave
  annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage
  – The State of Maine pays
  85%-100%of employee-only premiums ($12,213.60 -$14, annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium co369stsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit
  – Participation decreases employee-only…