District Park Ranger

Linn County • Wanatee Park, IA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Manages natural resources and facilities within Wanatee Park by overseeing operations, public services, and staff. Oversees park law enforcement, facility maintenance, natural resource management, and public engagement. The District Park Ranger ensures safety through enforcement of park regulations. Directs planning, development, and budgeting efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources or related field required.
• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a conservation-related field required
• Commercial Class A Driver’s License with airbrakes and passenger endorsements required within 6 months.
• Must reside in the on-site park ranger residence located within Wanatee Park.
• Certification as a Peace Officer through the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, CPR Certification, and completion of Advanced First Aid Training course required.
• Possession of a valid Iowa Driver's License required.
• Must pass a DOT physical examination which includes a drug test with random testing as determined by Linn County and federal guidelines.
• Must pass a criminal background check.
• Will be required to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License.

Nice To Haves

• An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and skills for this position may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Patrols park areas to ensure safety, enforces laws and park regulations, issues citations, and performs arrests as needed.
• Responds to emergencies and unforeseen situations such as accidents, rescues, environmental hazards, and disturbances; administers first aid/CPR.
• Oversees operation and maintenance of park campgrounds, shelters, cabins, and lodges, ensuring facility cleanliness, functionality, and safety.
• Supervises and schedules full-time and seasonal staff and volunteers; provides training and leads staff meetings.
• Provides administrative oversight including revenue tracking, inventory, budgeting input, records maintenance, and proposal review.
• Coordinates with local law enforcement agencies and preserves the scene of crimes; interviews victims, witnesses, and suspects as necessary.
• Engages with the public, neighboring landowners, contractors, and partner agencies to share information, resolve disputes, and represent the department.
• Coordinates custodial and maintenance tasks, including litter control, restroom upkeep, vandalism repair, and hazard mitigation.
• Manages ecological functions such as prairie burning, forestry, invasive species control, and maintenance of natural and cultivated areas.
• Collaborates on design, planning, and construction projects with internal staff and consultants; provides site feedback and monitors implementation.
• Promotes conservation through educational outreach, guided hikes, bulletin board postings, and support for public information efforts.
• Oversees use of equipment, including vehicles requiring CDL licensing; facilitates safe transport and usage of machinery and materials.

Benefits

• Competitive wages with annual pay increases & annual cost of living increase (depending on budget)
• Medical, dental, vision, short & long term disability, and supplemental life insurance
• Iowa Public Employee's Retirement Pension Plan (IPERS)
• Wellness program offering credit on insurance premiums to eligible employees
• On-site fitness centers for $15 per year
• 100% County paid basic life insurance
• 12 paid holidays per year
• Training & professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level