Park Ranger
Job Description
This role involves ensuring the safety of visitors, providing educational information, maintaining park facilities, and enforcing park regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Visitor Assistance and Education:
- Provide information and assistance to park visitors, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Conduct educational programs, guided tours, and interpretive talks to inform visitors about the park’s natural and cultural resources.
- Develop and distribute educational materials such as brochures, maps, and signage.
- Patrol and Safety:
- Patrol park areas to monitor activities and ensure compliance with park rules and regulations.
- Respond to emergencies, including providing first aid, coordinating search and rescue operations, and notifying law enforcement if necessary.
- Monitor weather conditions and other environmental factors to alert visitors of potential hazards.
- Resource Management and Conservation:
- Participate in the conservation and restoration of natural habitats, wildlife populations, and cultural sites.
- Conduct environmental monitoring and research activities to support resource management plans.
- Assist in controlling invasive species and conducting prescribed burns or other habitat management practices.
- Maintenance and Operations:
- Perform routine maintenance and repairs of park facilities, trails, and equipment.
- Ensure cleanliness and functionality of visitor centers, restrooms, picnic areas, and campgrounds.
- Operate and maintain vehicles, tools, and equipment used in park operations.
- Enforcement and Compliance:
- Enforce park rules and regulations to protect resources and ensure visitor safety.
- Issue citations or warnings to individuals violating park policies.
- Work with law enforcement agencies to investigate and report criminal activities within the park.
- Administrative Duties:
- Maintain accurate records and reports related to visitor services, incidents, and resource management activities.
- Assist in budget planning and resource allocation for park operations.
- Participate in training and professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in park management.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, environmental science, park management, or a related field preferred.
- Previous experience in park operations, law enforcement, or natural resource management is desirable.
- Certification in first aid, CPR, and AED; additional emergency response training is a plus.
- Strong communication and public speaking skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Physical fitness to perform strenuous activities, including hiking, lifting, and operating equipment.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to operate various types of vehicles and equipment.
Working Conditions:
- Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions.
- May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Exposure to potentially hazardous conditions, such as wildlife, rough terrain, and inclement weather.