Park Ranger: Trails, Safety & Community Engagement

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 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.