Job Description
Join the City of Austin's Parks & Recreation Department as a Weekend Shift Park Ranger and become a steward of our city's natural treasures. This vital role ensures safe, enjoyable experiences for visitors while protecting Austin's unique ecosystems. You'll work exclusively on weekends, including holidays, serving as the primary point of contact for park operations during high-traffic periods. This position offers the rare opportunity to serve your community while enjoying Austin's renowned outdoor spaces.
As a key member of our conservation team, you'll uphold the highest standards of public safety, environmental stewardship, and visitor engagement. The ideal candidate thrives in outdoor settings, possesses strong communication skills, and is committed to preserving Austin's natural heritage for future generations.
Responsibilities
- Monitor park facilities and trails during weekend hours to ensure visitor safety and compliance with regulations
- Provide exceptional customer service to park visitors, answering inquiries and addressing concerns promptly
- Conduct routine park maintenance including trail clearing, facility inspections, and waste management
- Enforce park rules and regulations with professionalism and conflict resolution skills
- Lead interpretive programs and educational activities on weekends to enhance visitor experiences
- Collaborate with law enforcement during emergency situations and incident reporting
- Perform wildlife monitoring and habitat conservation tasks specific to weekend operational needs
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED with 2 years of park operations or outdoor recreation experience
- Current First Aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
- Texas Class C driver's license with clean driving record
- Ability to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions for extended periods
- Strong communication skills with ability to de-escalate tense situations
- Experience in environmental education or public speaking preferred
- Basic knowledge of local flora, fauna, and ecosystems
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks