Seasonal Ranger

Boyce Thompson Arboretum•Superior, AZ

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Ranger is responsible for the safety and security of the Arboretum and responding to all calls for aid. The Ranger patrols the grounds during open hours, interacting with guests responding to emergencies and assisting with monitoring wildlife. This position will provide support and enforcement of all policies as they pertain to safety and the guest experience on the grounds. The Ranger will also perform light groundskeeping tasks as time allows. A positive attitude and great customer service is a must. Prior experience in public safety and first aid is highly desirable. This is a Seasonal position and will be Full-Time from October - April. Turn Your Passion for the Outdoors into a Career Do you come alive on the trail? Love hiking, birdwatching, camping, or simply spending your days surrounded by nature? If the idea of wearing hiking boots to work, spotting wildlife during your lunch break, and being part of a collaborative, mission-driven team excites you, then Boyce Thompson Arboretum may be the perfect place for you. Founded in 1924 by mining pioneer William Boyce Thompson, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden. Situated on 374 breathtaking acres at the base of Picket Post Mountain and bordering the Tonto National Forest in Superior, Arizona, the Arboretum offers a truly unique work environment unlike any other. Our living collection showcases extraordinary plants from the world's deserts and arid regions alongside the native beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Every day brings opportunities to experience nature firsthand, with miles of scenic trails, spectacular mountain views, and abundant wildlife throughout the grounds. It's not unusual to encounter javelina, bobcats, roadrunners, hummingbirds, and a variety of native and migratory birds while working and exploring the Arboretum. As an independent nonprofit organization, we're united by a shared passion for conservation, education, horticulture, and creating meaningful experiences for our visitors. We value teamwork, stewardship, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Located just 30 minutes from Mesa and one hour from downtown Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers the opportunity to build a rewarding career while enjoying the beauty, adventure, and tranquility of the Arizona outdoors. If you're looking for more than just a job—and want to be part of a community that inspires connection with nature every day—we'd love to hear from you.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
One year of relevant experience.
Knowledge of first aid and emergency response required.
A current Arizona Type D driver's license required
Customer service oriented and ability to create a positive relationship in all interactions.
Strong communication skills and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate efficiently and effectively with various audiences.
Ability to de-escalate tense situations and provide the best solution for all involved.
Ability to respond to emergency situations in a calm manner and interact with all emergency personnel in a professional manner.
Knowledge of first aid and first responder training.
Detail-oriented, collaborative manner, and strong work ethic.
Ability to work as part of a team.
Ability to demonstrate initiative, establish priorities, and meet deadlines.
Computer skills: Able to use email, calendar programs.
Must be able to work at least one weekend day and an occasional evening.
Must pass a background check.

Nice To Haves

Retired Public Safety and first responder highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Interacts daily with visitors, answering questions and providing aid when needed. Provides directions and guidance to guests regarding the garden paths and highlights.
Patrols Arboretum grounds, ensuring visitors adhere to rules and monitor for any safety concerns. The Ranger is responsible for proactively addressing issues that may arise.
Enforces Arboretum policies and safety procedures per direction of the Head Ranger/Safety Officer.
Serve as the main closing staff member on all scheduled days by locking the entrance gate one hour before closing, informing all visitors of the Arboretum’s closing time, ensuring all visitors have left the Arboretum, and closing/locking the exit gate upon the last visitor’s exit
Act as the first responder to all emergencies, including medical emergencies or other unusual occurrences; coordinate police and/or fire department response, if required
Assists with maintaining inventory and stock of first aid supplies and kits
Assists with regular checks of first aid kits and fire extinguishers
Use situational awareness to anticipate and solve problems
Responsible for parking and traffic control coordination on high-traffic days as directed by Head Ranger/Safety Officer.
Provides a friendly, professional and courteous demeanor at all times when interacting with arboretum visitors, staff, volunteers, and onsite partners.
Trash/litter removal from parking lots, gardens, and frontage road, assist with bathroom cleanup on heavy visitation days.
Monitoring of wildlife and human/wildlife interactions per Arboretum policy and guidelines or as directed.