What are the responsibilities and job description for the Park Ranger position at HYLAND HILLS PARKS & RECREATION?
Job Description
Title: Park Ranger
Department: District-Wide
Reports To: District Security Manager
Date: February 2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
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General Summary
Under the general supervision of the District Security Manager, the Park Ranger plays a key role in promoting safety, positive community relations, and stewardship of District facilities and parks. The Park Ranger prioritizes education, respectful communication, customer service, and effective de-escalation techniques while maintaining a professional and highly visible presence throughout Hyland Hills Parks & Recreation District facilities, Water World, and parks.
As a District ambassador, the Park Ranger supports a safe and welcoming environment aligned with District values and assists in educating the public on the importance of preserving Hyland Hills parks and public spaces.
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Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Visitor Safety, Education & Customer Service
· Greet visitors, provide information, and promote compliance with District and facility rules to ensure safety.
· Provide highly visible customer service to foster positive relationships with patrons and the community.
· Educate the public on the protection and preservation of District facilities, parks, trails, and natural resources.
· Assist with and support interpretive and environmental education programs and activities.
Security & Incident Response
· Patrol District facilities and parks to monitor conditions, identify safety concerns, and deter unsafe or inappropriate behavior.
· Exercise sound judgment and decision-making in complex or elevated situations, utilizing non-physical interaction and de-escalation techniques while maintaining personal safety and the safety of others.
· Provide first aid, CPR, and initial emergency response support within the scope of training and assist with established emergency protocols.
· Provide security support at District facilities and events, including rentals, concerts, games, and other programming, as assigned.
· Collaborate with District security staff and local law enforcement, fire, and emergency services as appropriate.
Operations, Maintenance & Environmental Support
· Perform basic maintenance and support duties, including trash removal, graffiti removal, restroom cleaning, and sign installation.
· Assist with natural resource support activities, such as trail maintenance and wildlife-related reporting or coordination.
· Assist with facility inspections, lighting checks, camera monitoring, and documentation related to safety and security checks.
Documentation & Administrative Duties
· Document interactions and incidents, issue warnings when appropriate, and write clear, detailed incident reports.
· Gather data and complete required documentation related to security, safety, and park operations.
· Perform other duties as assigned consistently with the scope and intent of the position.
Scheduling & Availability
· Work flexible schedules, including days, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as needed to support District operations and security coverage.
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Strong public relations, customer service, and communication skills.
· Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress or emergency situations involving people and animals.
· Knowledge of, or ability to learn, applicable municipal codes and District rules related to parks and facilities.
· Knowledge of, or ability to learn, regional, county, and state fire, health, safety, and animal welfare regulations relevant to parks and trails.
· Ability to operate vehicles, ATVs, and a variety of equipment and power tools.
· Ability to learn and operate specialized communication systems, including radio and dispatch-style systems.
· Ability to work collaboratively with District staff, security personnel, and external emergency services.
· Proficiency with records management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
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Working Environment & Physical Requirements:
· Work is performed primarily outdoors and requires moderate physical exertion.
· Exposure may include inclement weather, uneven terrain, hazardous tools and equipment, wildlife, hazardous chemicals, and possible exposure to bodily fluids.
· Frequently lifts up to 30 lbs. and carry items up to 50 feet.
· Frequently bends, squats, kneels, walks, and runs; occasionally climbs ladders and traverses’ uneven terrain.
· May be required to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays.
· May be trained and authorized to carry non-lethal deterrents, such as OC spray, subject to District policy and training requirements.
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Education & Experience:
Required:
· High School Diploma or GED.
· Valid, unrestricted Colorado Driver’s License with a safe driving record.
Preferred:
· Two (2) years of experience in park ranger services, security, law enforcement, environmental education, or a related field.
· Coursework or experience related to environmental education, natural resource management, recreation, public safety, or related discipline.
· Current CPR and First Aid certification.
· Experience providing public education or interpretive programming in a park, recreation, or community setting.
· Willingness to obtain CPR/First Aid Instructor certification within two (2) months of hire.
This job description is established by Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District and may be amended from time to time. The statements contained herein are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, skills, or qualifications required for the position. Rather, they are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.
This position is at will, meaning that either the District or the employee may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any lawful reason, consistent with applicable federal and state law.
Final candidates selected for employment with Hyland Hills Park & Recreation District will be required to successfully complete a criminal background check, conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and District policy.
Salary : $49,800 - $72,200