ENTRY LEVEL
Description: The completion of an accredited undergraduate degree in the Arts and Sciences is assumed. Application of Social Science 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
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
Basic understanding of global topics as they apply to the NPS mission
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 social factors which may affect park planning
Working knowledge of effective techniques that promote customer service
General knowledge of the concepts and theories associated with the planning process
Broad knowledge and ability to apply a specific discipline to the work of multidisciplinary teams
Ability to develop/present briefings and conduct small meetings with peers
Knowledge of customer issues and ability to respond appropriately
Ability to coordinate, anticipate problems and negotiate outcomes
Understanding of how profession fits and works within NPS roles/responsibilities
Working knowledge of the NPS ethic and its principles, policies and decisions
FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL
Description: Performs advanced planning and project/team coordination. As subject matter expert, collaborates with in-house and external resource personnel and works independently when necessary.
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 external 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 project evaluation
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
Ability to lead in own discipline and perform mid-level mentoring
Ability to organize, delegate and manage time efficiently
***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