Seasonal – Park Ranger (Multiple Positions/Austin Parks and Recreation)

City of Austin • Austin, TX

11d • $23

About The Position

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. Under general supervision, acts as an ambassador for City of Austin parks and its facilities by ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for park patrons. The purpose of the Seasonal – Park Ranger position is to serve as an ambassador for the City of Austin parks and its facilities by patrolling, offering educational programming, and conservation services for all park visitors. Park Rangers also develop, administer, and evaluate educational and interpretive programming aimed at garnering stewardship, responsible recreation, and fostering conservation and park beautification projects throughout Austin’s park system.

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED, plus enrolled in Austin Park Ranger Cadet Program, plus one (1) year of experience in a field related to the job.
• Valid Texas Driver's License.
• May be required to obtain certification in CPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instruction, or other certifications applicable to the assignment.
• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
• Knowledge of general safety rules, regulations, and laws.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritizing work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to handle conflict and uncertain situations.
• Ability to exercise appropriate judgment in environments that are consistently changing.
• Ability to ride a bicycle or hike long distances daily with a backpack on uneven terrain over long distances in hot, cold, or inclement weather and adverse conditions.
• Ability to bike and swim at a basic skill level.
• Ability to complete a one (1) – three (3) mile bike assessment in twenty (20) minutes or less.
• Ability to undergo self-defense training to include various standard techniques and methods.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with land management and conservation, natural resources, or environmental education.
• Experience coordinating programs and/or classes.
• Experience with bike riding and hiking, sometimes over rough surfaces or inclines, while carrying backpack, tools, equipment, etc.
• Experience leading interpretive and educational programming in a public setting.
• Experience working with diverse populations and communities, including public speaking and interacting with individuals of diverse social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.
• Knowledge of the cultural and natural history of Central Texas.
• Ability to fluently communicate (reading, writing, speaking) in English, Spanish, or other language.
• Certified Interpretive Guide Training, Wilderness First Aid, Project Wild, Leave No Trace, and/or similar outdoor recreation or educational certification.

Responsibilities

• Patrols park facilities for unsafe and deteriorating conditions in City of Austin parks and facilities.
• Provides customer service and acts as a source of information and assistance to inform the public of park information, rules, regulations, laws, ordinances, and municipal codes.
• Assists first responder agencies, provides first aid and determines need for and requests emergency services.
• Anticipates and solves problems and/or provides reports to appropriate agency.
• Educates park visitors on park amenities, safety rules, and regulations.
• Issues notices of park exclusions for violations and determines need for and calls for police assistance.
• Completes incident reports and other routine documentation.
• Organizes and/or administers educational programs for the public.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits : Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security : Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options : Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness : Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth : Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED