ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER I

This is a position specific recruitment for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Human Resource Services. This recruitment will be used to fill current vacancies for the position and may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification/function. Future vacancies may also be filled via other recruitments. The resulting eligible list will be maintained for one year.

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580 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401 (Anne Arundel County)

This position serves internal and external DNR customers by assisting in communication efforts across various platforms. This position facilitates conversations, meetings, workshops and/or training sessions by translating and interpreting information accurately and efficiently between two or more languages. The role can include verbal translation, but also cultural mediation to ensure messages are being understood in the appropriate context. The Bilingual Facilitation Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring effective communication and accessibility between the agency and the diverse populations it serves, particularly those with limited proficiency in English. Their work involves supporting various programs, services, and public interactions to break down language barriers, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their primary language, can participate fully in government services.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Human Resource Services unit is hiring a Bilingual Facilitation Specialist, fluent in Spanish. The incumbent in this role will:

• Provide real-time interpretation for meetings, interviews, public consultations, outreach events, certification test days, and emergency phone lines
• Translate and update written materials such as websites, flyers, documents, and signage
• Serve as a cultural mediator, offering guidance on social norms, non-verbal communication, and community values to improve communication and decision-making
• Train and support DNR employees in basic Spanish language skills and culturally responsive communication with Spanish-speaking communities
• Collaborate with internal departments, external agencies, community organizations, and contractors to implement effective language-access strategies

Education:   Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.

Experience: One year of administrative staff or professional work.

Notes:

1. Candidates may substitute 30 college credit hours from an accredited college or university for the required experience.

2. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer involving staff work that included regular use of independent judgment and analysis in applying and interpreting complex administrative plans, policies, rules or regulations or analysis of operational programs or procedures with recommendations for improvement on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

• Strong customer service background, including problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and client support
• Professional experience translating written materials, ensuring cultural and contextual accuracy
• Experience in networking, outreach, or partnership-building within professional or community-based environments
• Prior training or teaching experience, such as onboarding staff, leading workshops, or providing instructional support
• Experience working for or with a Federal, State or Local agency
• Candidates with fluency in languages beyond English and Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Applicants must be able to read, write and speak Spanish fluently. Upon hire, continued employment would be contingent on the applicant's successful completion of a bilingual skills assessment.

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.

Please make sure you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not accept information submitted after this date. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be considered for this position. Therefore, it is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Report all education and experience related to the essential functions and qualifications of this position.

Your application is part of the examination process. The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of this position. The rating will be based on the information provided on your application. Therefore, it is important you provide all the experience and education related to this position completely and accurately.

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

The online application is strongly preferred. If you are unable to apply online, you may submit a paper application and supplemental questionnaire to: Department of Natural Resources, Human Resources, 580 Taylor Avenue, C-3 Annapolis, MD 21401. The Human Resources Unit is not responsible for applications sent to any other address.