Fort Stevenson State Park Seasonal Park Ranger

North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department; Garrison (ND); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Full time

Job summary

North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department seeks staff to assist visitors, enforce rules, and support park operations in outdoor settings. You will patrol parks, assist in emergencies, and help with educational programs while promoting safe, welcoming environments.

Ideal candidates are 18+, have a high school diploma or GED, and can pass a background check. Seasonal, weekend-heavy hours are common, with CPR/First Aid preferred.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or GED.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
• Seasonal, flexible hours but include weekends and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a point of contact for park visitors by providing information on park rules, trails, wildlife, facilities, and recreational opportunities.
• Patrol park grounds by foot, vehicle, or bicycle to monitor visitor activity and ensure compliance with park rules.
• Assist in emergency situations, including providing first aid and coordinating search and rescue efforts with authorities.
• Assist with interpretive and educational programs, guided hikes, and tours highlighting the park's resources.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming environment for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
• Assist with natural and cultural resource protection, wildlife observation, invasive species control, and stewardship activities.
• Perform routine park operations and light maintenance such as litter collection, restroom upkeep, and trail inspections.
• Operate and maintain park vehicles, equipment, and tools safely.
• Document incidents, visitor contacts, and daily activities accurately and timely.
• Collaborate with park administration, maintenance, and enforcement teams to support park operations.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Customer service

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Responsibilities

• Serve as a point of contact for park visitors by providing friendly, accurate information on park rules, trails, wildlife, facilities, and recreational opportunities.
• Patrol park grounds by foot, vehicle, or bicycle to monitor visitor activity, promote responsible park use, and ensure compliance with state park rules and regulations.
• Assist in emergency situations, including providing first aid, coordinating search and rescue efforts, and working with law enforcement or emergency services as needed.
• Assist with interpretive and educational programs, guided hikes, and tours that highlight the park's natural, cultural, and historical resources.
• Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and secure environment for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
• Assist with natural and cultural resource protection efforts, including wildlife observation, invasive species control, and stewardship activities.
• Perform routine park operations and light maintenance tasks such as litter collection, restroom upkeep, trail inspections, and basic facility monitoring.
• Operate and maintain park vehicles, equipment, and tools safely and responsibly.
• Accurately document incidents, visitor contacts, and daily activities in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with park administration, maintenance, and enforcement teams to support park operations, programs, and visitor services.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• May involve walking or standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and performing physically demanding tasks.
• Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and irregular hours, including early mornings and evenings.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED
• Previous experience in parks, recreation, or customer service is a plus
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must be able to pass a background check
• Valid driver's license is preferred
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred
• Seasonal, flexible hours but include weekends and holidays as needed

What You’ll Gain

• Hands‑on work experience promoting responsible park use.
• Opportunity to build teamwork, responsibility, and job skills.
• Experience working in a public‑facing, outdoor environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. Sect. 23-12-10.