Park Ranger 1 - Permanent - Silver Falls State Park
About The Position
Silver Falls State Park Near Salem, Oregon Welcome Statement Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is proud to care for Oregon’s extraordinary landscapes and rich cultural history. The department serves its visitors and all Oregonians through its properties and programs, and recognizes that the state’s resilience and beauty are strengthened by its diverse population. Oregon State Parks are public spaces where all are welcome. We value and serve everyone, and we are committed to providing safe and equitable access to state parks and agency programs. The department will not tolerate racism, harassment, discrimination or intimidation in any form. Your New Role As a permanent full-time Park Ranger 1, you will assist in the protection, maintenance, operation and repair of state park lands, natural and cultural resources, structures, facilities, equipment, and systems. In this role, you will perform a variety of park operational tasks such as: janitorial work, landscape maintenance, facility maintenance, safety, and visitor services. Some work may require skills in: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting, equipment repair, and landscape maintenance. Additionally, specialized skills in park maintenance and operations may be required. On a task specific basis, you may guide the work of individuals or teams composed of volunteers, seasonal, and/or temporary state park employees. For a complete list of duties and working conditions for this position, please click here.
Requirements
- Two (2) years of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping).
- An Associate's degree or higher in Park and Recreation Administration or Natural Resource Management, Environmental Studies or a related field; AND Six (6) months of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping).
- Criminal record and driving record check must be completed that meets OPRD Criteria at the time of hire, and throughout employment while also maintaining a valid driver’s license.
Nice To Haves
- Experience performing routine campground or day‑use area tasks such as site checks, reservation verification, assisting visitors with campground policies, and supporting smooth daily operations.
- Experience providing high‑quality customer service in busy outdoor recreation settings; able to communicate clearly, de‑escalate challenging situations, and maintain positive visitor relations.
- Experience explaining and enforcing park, campground, or outdoor recreation rules with consistency, professionalism, and situational awareness.
- Experience using computer programs including Microsoft, HRIS/Workday systems and Reservation/POS systems.
- Experience performing routine janitorial, groundskeeping, and light maintenance in buildings, restrooms, and park facilities while maintaining cleanliness and safety standards.
- Experience assessing and responding to issues such as visitor conflicts, minor emergencies, campsite concerns, or operational disruptions in a calm and effective manner.
- Experience working in parks, campgrounds, marinas, or other outdoor facilities that see high levels of public use, requiring adaptability and strong multitasking skills.
- Demonstrated leadership experience guiding diverse teams, including seasonal and permanent staff, volunteers, adult and/or juvenile custody crews, or the general public by providing clear direction across varied tasks to achieve organizational goals.
- Direct experience working in day‑use areas, overnight campgrounds, or outdoor recreation parks, especially in roles involving visitor interaction, rule enforcement, campground operations, or facility maintenance.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the protection, maintenance, operation and repair of state park lands, natural and cultural resources, structures, facilities, equipment, and systems.
- Perform a variety of park operational tasks such as: janitorial work, landscape maintenance, facility maintenance, safety, and visitor services.
- Guide the work of individuals or teams composed of volunteers, seasonal, and/or temporary state park employees on a task specific basis.
Benefits
- Work/life balance
- 11 paid holidays a year
- Competitive benefits package
- Advancement and learning opportunities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
