Park Ranger

Catawba County Government; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Catawba County Parks is seeking a Park Ranger to maintain grounds, patrol trails, and assist visitors across the park system. The role emphasizes safety, maintenance, and friendly service within a team-driven environment.

The ideal candidate has a background in parks or natural resources, valid credentials, and the physical ability to work outdoors on varied schedules. This is a full-time position with benefits, requiring weekend availability.

Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license with a safe driving record is required.
• Forest Service Chainsaw Certification and CPR/First Aid (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Ability or willingness to learn how to operate, maintain, and perform light repairs on tools and equipment (e.g., chainsaws, weed eaters, tractors, trail motorcycles).
• Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to excellent customer service.
• Collaborative, hands-on, problem-solving mindset with sound judgment and self-initiative.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital logs/reporting.
• This is considered Physical/Heavy Work, lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally, and up to 50 pounds frequently; must be in good physical condition and able to walk/bike 5–10 miles regularly.

Responsibilities

• Maintain park grounds, trails, facilities, and equipment year-round according to maintenance plans.
• Inspect and patrol park areas for safety or maintenance concerns and resolve issues.
• Perform minor service and repairs on tools, equipment, and facilities; maintain service logs.
• Support natural habitat preservation and restoration efforts.
• Open and close parks according to schedules and protocols.
• Enforce park ordinances and assist visitors with questions and concerns.
• Implement approved park programming and assist with community events and public engagement.
• Promote a positive image of the park system through respectful, inclusive visitor interactions and partnerships.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Customer service mindset

Self-initiative

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Physical stamina

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation Biology Natural Resources Forestry Horticulture or related field

Associate’s degree in Parks & Recreation Biology Natural Resources Forestry Horticulture or related field + 1 year related experience

High school diploma or GED + 3 years related experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Digital logs/reporting systems

Job description

Catawba County Parks is seeking an energetic and service-driven individual to join our team as a Park Ranger. Park Rangers are stewards of our natural spaces, ensuring safe, well-maintained, and welcoming environments across the Catawba County Park System. In this role, you’ll focus on park maintenance, visitor engagement, ordinance enforcement, and program implementation to support our mission of preserving and connecting people with nature.

This is a full-time position with benefits and requires availability to work both weekdays and weekends. To learn more about Catawba County Parks, visit: https://www.catawbacountync.gov/county-services/parks

• Maintain park grounds, trails, facilities, and equipment year-round according to established maintenance plans
• Inspect and patrol park areas for safety or maintenance concerns and resolve issues proactively
• Perform minor service and repairs on tools, equipment, and facilities; maintain service logs
• Support natural habitat preservation and restoration efforts
• Open and close parks according to established schedules and protocols
• Enforce park ordinances and serve as a resource for visitor questions and concerns
• Implement approved park programming and assist with community events and public engagement
• Promote a positive image of the park system through respectful, inclusive visitor interactions and partnerships

• Bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation, Biology, Natural Resources, Forestry, Horticulture, or related field; OR
• Associate’s degree in Parks & Recreation, Biology, Natural Resources, Forestry, Horticulture, or related field and 1 year of experience in parks, recreation, park maintenance, mechanical work, or other specifically related experience; OR
• High school diploma or GED equivalent and 3 years of experience in parks, recreation, park maintenance, mechanical work, or other specifically related experience

• A valid driver’s license with a safe driving record (Driving is an essential function of this position)
• Forest Service Chainsaw Certification and CPR/First Aid (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• Ability or willingness to learn how to operate, maintain, and perform light repairs on tools and equipment (e.g., chainsaws, weed eaters, tractors, mountain bikes, trail motorcycles)
• Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to excellent customer service
• Collaborative, hands-on, problem-solving mindset with sound judgment and self-initiative
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital logs/reporting
• This is considered Physical/Heavy Work, lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally, and up to 50 pounds frequently. Must be in good physical condition and possess stamina to walk/bike longer distances (5-10 miles) on a regular basis to monitor and maintain trail system, conduct tours, and assist patrons.