ENTRY LEVEL
Description: The completion of an accredited undergraduate degree in the Arts and Sciences is assumed. Application of recreation planning knowledge and the expansion/application of that expertise to the interdisciplinary practice of NPS planning is required. Performs less complex planning duties on an independent basis. Generally works on more complex plans under the supervision of a senior planner.
I. Knowledge of Planning Discipline
II. Environmental Ethic in Global Context
III. Environmental/Heritage Ethic
IV. Inter/Intra-Personal Skills
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Basic understanding of identified competencies and how they relate to the NPS planning process
Knowledge of NPS standards and application of these standards to a particular discipline. Basic understanding of NPS park operational systems and culture
General knowledge of values/ethic/legislative mandates/ issues associated with Park management
Basic understanding of global topics as they apply to the NPS mission
General knowledge of effective techniques to promote customer service
Working knowledge of sustainable practices
Awareness of need for cross-cultural perspective and its application to planning
DEVELOPMENTAL LEVEL
Description: Performs at a more advanced level with less supervision as employee advances through the development stages. Collaborates with in-house and external experts. As employee advances, is exposed to more comprehensive aspects of relevant subject matter.
I. Knowledge of Planning Discipline
II. Environmental Ethic in Global Context
III. Environmental/Heritage Ethic
IV. Inter/Intra-Personal Skills
V. NPS Leadership/Management
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Same as entry level plus:
Working knowledge of the principles that govern park operations/park planning
Working knowledge of how to interpret recreation use factors which may affect park planning
Working knowledge of effective techniques that promote customer service
General knowledge of the recreation use concepts and theories associated with the planning process
Broad knowledge and ability to apply a specific discipline to the work of interdisciplinary teams
Working knowledge of cross-cultural values and ability to address in planning products
FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL
Description: Performs advanced studies and project/team coordination. As subject matter expert, collaborates with in-house and external resource personnel.
I. Knowledge of Planning Discipline
II. Environmental Ethic in Global Context
III. Environmental/Heritage Ethic
IV. Inter/Intra-Personal Skills
V. NPS Leadership/Management
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Same as developmental level plus:
Ability to practice and train others, demonstrating a complete understanding of NPS values/principles/ethics
Knowledge of recreation use factors to park planning and effective integration of findings into the scoping/ alternatives development process
Knowledge of effective planning and management techniques in the practice by participating/leading the planning process
Ability to apply the principles of leadership in conducting planning activities from vision formulation to projectevaluation
Demonstrated ability to function effectively in most aspects of the planning process
Ability to communicate effectively with other disciplines in Order to integrate team member contributions
Provides leadership in the area of applying cross-cultural perspective and understanding to professional work for parks
***At expert level (GS-14/15) for future specialist career path:
Ability to represent NPS before other agencies/commissions; is recognized as agency's expert/leader in discipline and/or multi-faceted programs
National Park Service