TPWD - Park Ranger ; Park Interpreter​/Volunteer Coordinator

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This is an opportunity to join a high-perfoming, mission-driven team in serving Texans through stewardship, service, excellence, integrity and teamwork. Lake Somerville State Park Complex has superlative landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities and outdoor recreational opportunities within a two-hour drive from Austin and Houston.

Under the direction of the Lake Somerville Complex Superintendent, this position performs routine (journey-level) operations work in a state park. The Park Interpreter/Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for interpretation and educational programming and assists with organizing, planning and directing volunteer activities and special programs/events at the Lake Somerville State Park Complex including Birch Creek and Nails Creek State Parks. Researches, develops, and provides interpretive programs, exhibits, outreach programs and tours based on the Interpretive Master Plan of the complex and its mission.

Assists with recruiting, training, and oversight of volunteer program. Serves as social media manager and as liaison for park support group. Provides administrative support duties including promotion, marketing and purchasing. Assists with natural and cultural resource management which may include participating in prescribed fires. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.

Education
:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree.

Experience
:
No experience required.

Licensure
:
Must possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days of employment, a valid class "C" Texas driver's license.

Note
:
Retention of position is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining required license.

Acceptable Substitutions
:
One year of experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs may substitute for 30 hours of the required education, with a maximum substitution of 120 semester hours.

Education
:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Park Administration, Recreation and Parks, Wildlife/Fisheries Science, Natural and/or Cultural Resource Conservation, Range Management, Forestry, Biology, Geology, Anthropology/Archeology, History, or closely related field.

Experience
:
Experience in customer service; park operations; interpretation or conducting educational programs. Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

:
Knowledge of natural and cultural resources management; knowledge of special event planning and implementation; knowledge of basic mathematics; knowledge of park operations and maintenance practices; knowledge of the principles of park administration; knowledge of methods of interpretation and education; knowledge of standard financial and business management principles.
Kill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Skills
:
Effective verbal and written communication; interpretive techniques, program preparation, and presentations; establishing and maintaining effective work relationships; providing quality customer service; planning, organizing and implementing public presentations and guided tours for various age groups; managing groups; general maintenance techniques.

Abilities
:
Work as a team member; accurately handle cash and account for revenue; issue permits; maintain flexibility with interruptions and changing priorities; train others; survey customers for program quality; perform manual labor up to 50 lbs; conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.

Required to work in a public park with overnight camping and day use. 40 hours per week, with varied schedules and days off. Outdoor work in adverse weather conditions. Manual labor up to 50 lbs. Travel up to 5% with possible overnight stays. May operate a state vehicle. Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.

TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

John Rorie,