PARK RANGER

Park Ranger

Patrol park grounds, facilities, campgrounds, trails, and waterways to ensure public safety and security. Duties include patrolling for possible thefts, illegal hunting and vandalism and other violations, making physical arrests, testifying in court, assisting local agencies, and administering first aid. Enforce Arkansas's traffic and criminal statutes, and park-specific rules or park directives, and regulations, including applicable Arkansas Game and Fish laws. This includes making arrests and issuing warnings and / or citations as needed. Respond to emergencies such as medical events, accidents, lost persons, wildlife encounters, or criminal activity, providing appropriate action or assistance. Conduct preliminary investigations of crimes, accidents, or incidents occurring within park boundaries. Serve as a friendly, knowledgeable public contact for park guests, providing guidance, information, and education on park features, rules, and safety protocols. Be the health and safety officer for park events, or as support for law enforcement duties as assigned for events. Assist or lead public programming for health, safety, or security needs. Monitor natural and cultural resources for signs of damage, misuse, or illegal activity. Collaborate with resource management staff to support habitat protection and historical preservation efforts. Maintain accurate records and reports of patrol activities, incidents, arrests, and safety hazards. Complete daily logs, evidence documentation, and case-related paperwork in compliance with agency policies and directives. Assist with park operations including traffic control, campground compliance, and support during high visitation periods or special events. Participate in search and rescue efforts or emergency evacuations as needed.

Strong verbal communication skills for public interaction and enforcement. Ability to defuse tense situations and manage conflict calmly and effectively. Sound decision-making under pressure and in potentially hazardous or dynamic conditions. Excellent observational and situational awareness skills. Committed to ethical conduct, impartiality, and public trust. Displays a high standard of personal accountability and integrity. Ability to work cooperatively with other rangers, law enforcement, park staff, and state agencies. Adaptability to changing weather, visitor volume, and emergency scenarios.

This position is subject to 24-hour calls, must be able to traverse rough terrain, work a varied shift including weekends, evenings, and holidays, work in inclement weather and carry a firearm while on duty.