Park Ranger I/II

City of Escondido; Escondido (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking dedicated individuals for the Park Ranger I/II position. This role involves supervising park usage, enforcing regulations, and providing exceptional visitor services in beautiful natural settings. Ideal candidates will be passionate about conservation and community engagement, working as part of a committed team to maintain the integrity of parks and lakes. If you enjoy outdoor work and have a knack for public relations, this opportunity offers a fulfilling career path with room for advancement. Join a vibrant community dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid vacation

Retirement benefits

Flexible work hours

Qualifications

• Knowledge of natural resource management and conservation principles.
• Ability to enforce park rules and regulations effectively.

Responsibilities

• Patrols City parks and lakes facilities.
• Enforces City ordinances and park rules.
• Coordinates projects and performs general maintenance.

Skills

Natural resource management

Public relations

Emergency procedures

Customer service

Supervisory skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s Degree in parks and recreation management

Tools

First Aid equipment

Power tools

Vehicles for park maintenance

Job description

Join to apply for the Park Ranger I/II role at City of Escondido

5 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Join to apply for the Park Ranger I/II role at City of Escondido

Summary

Park Ranger I: $50,731 - $67,984 annually

Park Ranger II: $55,998 - $75,043 annually

If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to provide top-quality municipal services in a prime North County location, consider a career with the City of Escondido. We have an opening for the position of Park Ranger I/II in our Utilities Department/Lakes Division. For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's website.

Summary

Park Ranger I: $50,731 - $67,984 annually

Park Ranger II: $55,998 - $75,043 annually

If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to provide top-quality municipal services in a prime North County location, consider a career with the City of Escondido. We have an opening for the position of Park Ranger I/II in our Utilities Department/Lakes Division. For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's website.

Under general supervision, supervises park usage and performs a variety of professional, technical, and maintenance duties in the day-to-day operation of City parks and lakes including public relations, visitor services, enforcement of park rules and municipal code, natural resource interpretation and protection, and buildings and ground maintenance. Supervision is received from the Lakes and Open Space Supervisor; supervision is exercised over Ranger Specialists, Park Attendants and volunteers.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Park Ranger I: This is the entry level class in the Park Ranger series. Positions at this level are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to the Park Ranger II level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Incumbents at this level are expected to learn the full range of responsibilities and perform duties with an increasing level of independence. Advancement to the "II" level is based on demonstrated proficiency in performing the assigned functions and is at the discretion of higher level supervisory or management staff.

Park Ranger II: This is the full journey level class in the Park Ranger series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Park Ranger I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, applying well knowledge, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Work is normally reviewed only on completion and for overall results. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the Park Ranger II level are normally filled by advancement from the Park Ranger I level.

Park Ranger I incumbents are typically eligible to progress to the II level after 12 months of successful performance and completion of the Progression/Advancement Requirements. As employees progress into the Park Ranger II classification, they are expected to work more independently and at a higher level.

Key Responsibilities

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

Patrols City parks and lakes facilities.

Enforces City ordinances and park rules and regulations.

Opens and closes lakes and parks facilities.

Collects and deposits fees; issues citations for misdemeanors and infractions and contacts police when needed.

Prepares and makes oral presentations to park visitors and community groups off site as required.

Acts as a public information source, answers questions asked by the public.

Prepares written reports of incidents and accidents.

Prepares daily logs and activity reports.

Maintains visitor use and park activity records, prepares reports, and creates forms.

Coordinates projects and performs general maintenance, cleaning, repair and improvement on all open spaces and camping facilities and equipment, including boat docks, boats, fishing piers, trails, picnic and camping sites, restrooms and irrigation equipment. Operates a variety of tools, equipment, and vehicles.

Assists with planning and designating assignments for Ranger Specialists, Park Attendants and volunteers.

Coordinates, trains, and evaluates the work of Ranger Specialists, Park Attendants and volunteers.

Provides first aid and emergency medical response.

Assists in the coordination of search and rescue operations.

Attends miscellaneous agency meetings.

May assist in staffing concession stand, as needed due to staff shortages.

Performs related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Natural resource management and conservation principles.

Principles of public relations and visitor management.

Principles, practices, methods, theories, and trends in volunteerism and volunteer management.

Park maintenance and operations;

FirstAid, CPR and other emergency procedures.

City ordinances and rules relating to parks and recreation.

English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.

Principles of public speaking.

Standard office practices and procedures, including the use of standard office equipment, basic recordkeeping, arithmetic, computer applications and basic computer software.

Safe working practices.

Principles and practices of customer service with the public, vendors, contractors and City staff.

Ability To:

Establish and maintain effective working relationships and contribute to a cooperative team effort.

Work independently while supervising facilities, user groups and other staff.

Complete work within an expected time frame.

Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Analyze situations and determine a course of action.

Effectively communicate with the public and coworkers both orally and in writing.

Use a variety of hand tools, power tools, and equipment for the maintenance and repair of park and lake equipment and facilities.

Operate assigned vehicles and equipment including water and tanker trucks, observing legal and defensive driving practices.

Effectively implement policies, rules and laws.

Successfully complete required training and obtain required certifications and licenses.

Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Read, write and understand English to follow safety precautions and procedures.

Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community.

Minimum Requirements

Park Ranger I/II

Education/Training:

A high school diploma or equivalent. A Bachelor’s Degree in parks and recreation management, natural resource management is highly desirable and may substitute for the experience requirement below.

Experience:

Two years of related experience in parks and recreation management or natural resource management that demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Park Ranger II

Experience:

Successful completion of the Progression/Advancement Requirements and 12 months of experience as a Park Ranger I with the City of Escondido.

Progression/Advancement Requirements:

Meet all qualifications, requirements and certifications for progression.

Complete and master all items in the Lakes Training Manual at the “Trainer Level”.

Attend and complete Microsoft training for Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint training at Escondido University (must be completed within one year after progression to Level II or show proficiency in each area);

Demonstrate competence in using City of Escondido computer hardware and software applications.

Complete five part-time employee evaluations and assist in the performance conference with the employee.

Complete departmental training class in “Enforcement”;

Complete departmental training class in “Interpretation”;

Complete departmental training class in “Trail Construction and Maintenance”;

Instruct one departmental training class.

Develop and present two interpretive programs, including one audio/visual program.

Present four safety programs to the Lakes Division staff.

Complete one “special assignment” rotation in the Lakes Division.

Select an area and take a lead role in developing a program for all employees, including planning, organizing and coordinating to completion.

Perform satisfactory participation as a member of a department team project.

• NOTE: Periodic revisions may be made to the advancement criteria as deemed necessary by the department.
  
  

License, Certificate Or Other Requirements:

Incumbents must possess a valid Class “C” California driver’s license at the time of application.

Within the first 12 months of employment, must have satisfactory completion of P.C. 832 training, and successful completion of advanced CPR/First-Aid Certification as provided by the Escondido Fire Department and Pesticide Handler Training.

Incumbents must be willing to work mandatory overtime when required; may be required to work nights, weekends and holidays.

Supplemental Information

NOTE: For a complete listing of job duties and qualifications, please refer to the corresponding job description, which can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or downloaded from the City's web site. The City of Escondido is committed to a drug and alcohol free workplace. All applicants will be subject to fingerprint investigation before a conditional offer of employment is extended. A pre-employment medical examination will be conducted following a conditional offer of employment for all positions. Safety sensitive positions will include a pre-employment drug screen. Positions subject to the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations will be subject to DOT pre-employment drug testing and random drug and alcohol testing.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Applications will be screened and the most qualified candidates will be invited to appear for testing. All positions require the ability to read, write and speak English. Types of tests may include written and/or oral examination, physical agility, practical exam or other appropriate job-related selection process. When testing is completed, candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list in the order of their test score. Selection for appointments is made from names certified on the eligibility list.

All appointments are subject to the successful completion of background investigation including LIVESCAN fingerprinting, and will be required to submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States. Qualification by a medical examination will be required at the time of appointment. After appointment, classified employees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period to be eligible for regular status. In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all new employees must produce proof of eligibility to work in the United States within the first three days of their employment. The City of Escondido participates in E-Verify.

The Loyalty Oath will be administered to all new employees on their first day of hire. New employees hired into positions that require a driver's license must provide proof of a valid California Driver's License of the appropriate class level on their first day of employment.

Additional information regarding the essential functions and physical, environmental and communication demands of the position may be obtained from the Human Resources Department. If you require reasonable accommodation in the testing process, such as an alternate means of testing, you must contact the Human Resources Department by the final filing date to complete a Request for Reasonable Accommodation form. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Note: Pursuant to California Civil Code section 1786.53, the City of Escondido shall provide to all job candidates a copy of any records of arrest, indictment, conviction, civil judicial action, tax lien or outstanding judgment which was obtained in the course of conducting an evaluation for employment, assignment, and/or promotion. A copy of this information, if received by the City, will be given to candidates within seven days of the City's receipt.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE

Eligible Individuals Are Those Who Meet The Following Criteria:

• Served in the U.S. armed forces
• Received an honorable discharge
• Did not retire from military service
• Seeking employment with the City of Escondido for the first time.
  
  

Guard and Reserve active duty for training purposes does not qualify for veterans' preference. Proof of eligibility (copy of DD-214) must be submitted at time of application, or later if the promulgation of the eligibility list will not be delayed. Veterans' preference credit will only be applied to eligible applicants who attained a passing grade (total score exclusive of credit) on the final open examination.

ABOUT OUR CITY

The City of Escondido is a prominent agricultural, commercial hub and residential center of North San Diego County. Located a short 30-minute drive from the beach, the mountains or downtown San Diego, Escondido residents enjoy the pleasure of a rural lifestyle with all the benefits of suburban living. Escondido is a diverse, vibrant community with many amenities. The city offers attractive homes in a wide range of prices, two lakes, several parks, a sports center, golf courses, restaurants, wineries, shopping centers, a variety of art galleries, entertainment venues, and a state of the art hospital. Established in 1888, the city's rich past brings charm and stability to the community; yet integrated with Escondido's treasured heritage is a progressive future, bright and brimming with promise.

EOE The City of Escondido does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, disability, sex, age, national origin, or sexual orientation. We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request.

The City of Escondido offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

The Benefits of Choice program offers you a range of benefits. You choose the coverage that is right for you, your family and your budget. Read this e-Guide for an overview of your options, with links to additional details and forms.

For a more detailed overview of this benefits package, please visit the Maintenance and Operations Benefit Summary

01

Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening and selection process. The questions are specific to the position and the information you provide will be reviewed and used to further evaluate your experience and education to move forward in the selection process. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do not answer "see resume" or " see application" as these are not valid answers. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from the information included in the Work Experience and Education sections of your application?

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Do you possess education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade?

• Yes
• No
  
  

03

Do you possess education equivalent to a Bachelor's Degree in parks and recreation management, natural resource management or closely related field?

• Yes
• No
  
  

04

Do you possess two years (full-time equivalent) of related experience in parks and recreation management or natural resource management?

• Yes
• No
  
  

05

Please describe your experience working in a park or other outdoor setting, where maintenance of grounds and/or buildings was required. List the name of the employer, your title, dates of employment and specific maintenance duties performed.

06

Please describe your experience providing general interpretation services to the public. List the name of the employer, your title, dates of employment, a description of the programs presented, and the specific audiences to which you provided these services.

07

Please describe your experience performing rule enforcement in a park or other public setting. List the name of the employer, your title, dates of employment, a description of the types of rules enforced, and your general level of authority to enforce (educate/inform, citation, arrest, other).

08

Do you possess any of the following training certificates? (please check all that apply)

• P.C. 832
• Emergency Medical Responder
• Pesticide Handler
• None
  
  

09

Do you possess a valid Class C California driver's license?

• Yes
• No
  
  

10

I acknowledge that within the first 12 months of employment I must complete the following: P.C. 832 Training, Emergency Medical Responder certificate, and Pesticide Handler training.

• Yes
• No
  
  

11

I acknowledge that I may be required to work overtime when required; may be required to work nights, weekends and holidays.

• Yes
• No
• Required Question

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Entry level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Other

• Industries

  Government Administration

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