Park Ranger

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers•Buford, GA

About The Position

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to competitive-service positions. The Park Ranger works under the general supervision of an Operational Project Manager, Supervisory Natural Resource Management Specialist, Park Manager, or Supervisory Park Ranger. The supervisor outlines program objectives and goals in relation to the project and District. The role supports recreation and natural resource management programs, public safety, visitor engagement, outreach, planning, and enforcement at a park or project. The ranger coordinates environmental awareness and water safety programs; works with stakeholders; drafts facility improvement plans; supports short-range planning and budget development; protects park property and natural and cultural resources; and educates visitors about project policies and regulations. The position also involves public contact in potentially stressful or volatile situations, fee collection and accounting, safety and emergency planning, interpretive programming, public communications, volunteer coordination, and documentation of incidents and violations.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship.
Meet the applicable GS-05, GS-07, or GS-09 qualification requirements through specialized experience, education, or an allowed combination of education and experience.
For GS-05, one year of specialized experience, qualifying education, or an eligible combination; qualifying specialized experience includes relevant technical, administrative, scientific, fish and wildlife, recreation management, law enforcement, park-related, preservation, forestry, fire management, or park policy work.
For GS-07, one year of specialized experience, qualifying graduate education, superior academic achievement, or an eligible combination; qualifying specialized experience includes assisting with natural and cultural resource conservation, recreation management, facility improvements, or Title 36 CFR enforcement and visitor education.
For GS-09, one year of specialized experience, qualifying graduate education, or an eligible combination; qualifying specialized experience includes assisting with park maintenance, public safety programs, operations and maintenance budgets, or recommendations for facility and procedure changes.
Meet applicable time-in-grade requirements if currently or recently employed in a General Schedule position.
Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Possess or be able to acquire a Corps of Engineers boat operator's license within two years.
Complete Park Ranger training requirements within one year, including Visitor Assistance Training, CPR, First Aid, Blood Borne Pathogens, and Unarmed Self Defense.
Possess or be able to acquire Title 36 Citation Authority within one year.
Wear the prescribed uniform.
Be able to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays depending on project needs.
May be required to work in adverse weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, or wind.
May be called in on short notice during emergencies.
May be subject to a suitability or fitness determination based on a completed background investigation.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
Complete a one-year probationary period.
Use direct deposit for pay.

Responsibilities

Coordinate environmental awareness events and water safety programs.
Conduct outreach activities with stakeholders connected to the Corps mission and operations.
Draft facility improvement plans consistent with current and future demands.
Coordinate short-range planning, draft budget development, and execution of project program activities.
Prevent unauthorized use, trespass, and destruction of park and project property.
Enforce Title 36 CFR by educating the public about project purpose, conditions, policies, and regulations.
Enforce public safety programs, including surveillance and maintenance of buoys, signs, and fences.
Protect natural and cultural resources from degradation caused by visitor use or illegal activities.
Interact with the public in high-stress, emotional, and potentially volatile situations.
Collect recreation use fees and account for funds under established regulations and policies.
Update Project Safety Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Emergency Operations Plans for recreation aspects of the project.
Analyze the effectiveness and visitor appeal of interpretive programs and literature.
Develop park program improvements to increase visitor engagement, including selecting new media or techniques.
Communicate project and park information to the public and government agencies through brochures, displays, news releases, websites, and social media.
Meet with public and state, local, and national stakeholders to explain programs, promote activities, and explain management policies.
Update and review Standard Operating Procedures for recreation and natural resources management.
Issue written warnings or citations to stop volatile behavior and resolve situations.
Complete incident reports documenting events, resource conditions, or violations.
Coordinate the project volunteer program.
Plan, promote, and execute special programs, including environmental awareness events and safety programs.