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State Park Jobs and Career Opportunities - Rhode Island
Interview with a Regional Manager

From Darren Smith, About.com Guide

Name: Richard Jacques

Current Position: Regional Manager

How long have you been with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and in what capacity?
Thirty one years in an administrative capacity.

How did you become interested in working as a Regional Manager?
I loved the outdoors.

Describe a typical day at your job.
(If there is no such thing as a typical day, then please tell us about your primary responsibilities and duties.)
I watch over three camping areas and five beaches, so on a nice day I try to visit every area to check in with staff for issues.

How many hours a week do you work in this position?
During the summer I work 50-60 hours per week; in the winter about 40 hours a week.

What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
Seeing park patrons enjoying our facilities.

What do you find to be the greatest challenges of your job?
Assuring that the resources are protected for future generations.

What kind of training/schooling is required in your position?
I have a BS degree from Rhode Island University in Resource Development.

Is there any kind of training or general experience that you wish you had before taking your job?
Yes, more education in Business Management.

What are a few of the projects that you've been working on recently that have been the most interesting?
A new water system in the campground was very interesting.

If someone were interested in working as a Parks Regional Manager, what advice could you give them?
You'll find yourself doing e-mails, going to the banks, handling personnel issues, checking schedules all before you do the real fun stuff.

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