About the position
The State Park Ranger Lead position is a critical role within the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, specifically under the Maryland Park Service. This position serves as the lead ranger for an operational area of a State Park, where the individual will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of park facilities and ensuring compliance with park regulations. The State Park Ranger Lead will interpret and apply park rules to promote voluntary compliance among visitors, coordinate various forest and park programs, and educate the public about the natural and cultural resources available in the parks. This role requires a strong commitment to resource management and visitor engagement, as the ranger will monitor visitor impact to protect park resources and facilities. In addition to operational duties, the State Park Ranger Lead will be tasked with administrative responsibilities, including directing full-time personnel and managing seasonal employees and volunteers. This includes hiring, scheduling, and leading efforts to ensure that park operations run smoothly. The position requires flexibility, as employees may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, and may be subject to call-in based on staffing needs. The work environment is dynamic, involving both indoor and outdoor settings, and requires physical stamina, including the ability to lift objects weighing twenty-five pounds or more and navigate uneven terrain. The State Park Ranger Lead is distinguished from other ranger classifications by their leadership role in training and overseeing lower-level park staff. This position does not involve full supervisory responsibilities but does require a proactive approach to leading teams and ensuring that park standards are met. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of experience in park management, recreation, and natural resource education, along with strong communication skills to effectively engage with the public and promote the park's mission.
Responsibilities
- Lead operational duties of day use areas and facilities in a State Park.
- Interpret and apply park rules and regulations to ensure compliance.
- Coordinate forest and park programs and educate visitors on resources.
- Monitor visitor impact to protect park resources and facilities.
- Direct full-time personnel and manage seasonal employees and volunteers.
- Assist visitors with information and support regarding natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources.
- Perform administrative duties related to park operations.
Requirements
- Seven years of experience in forest or park management, recreation, or natural resources management.
- Three years of experience in preparing, developing, or delivering programs that interpret natural, historical, cultural, or recreational features.
- Possession of a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field can substitute for some experience requirements.
- Possession of a Master's degree can substitute for five years of the required experience.
- U.S. Armed Forces military service experience can substitute for required experience on a year-for-year basis.
Nice-to-haves
- Three years of professional field-level experience working in a park setting.
- Two years of experience in training and leading a team.
- Experience in leading and organizing volunteers.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience in developing and presenting natural resource and/or cultural and historic programs.
- Experience in grounds, building, and infrastructure upkeep.
- Experience working with community and government agency partners.
Benefits
- Full-time employment with a competitive salary range of $60,987.00 - $98,313.00/year.
- Opportunities for professional development and training in park operations.
