Operations Ranger

Position Title: Operations Ranger 

Department: Operations

Reports To: Ranger and Operations Manager 

Location: Audubon Louisiana Nature Center 

Position Type: Seasonal (FT)

Who We Are 

Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

What You’ll Do (Summary of role)

The purpose of the Operations Ranger (Ops Ranger) position is to ensure, under the guidance and supervision of the Ranger and Operations Manager, the successful daily operations, horticulture and grounds care; housekeeping; facility repair and maintenance; light construction; integration of conservation initiatives; and programmatic support of Audubon Louisiana Nature Center. As custodians of the nature center, the Operations Team must maintain effective relationships with our guests, visitors, and all levels of staff of Audubon Nature Institute. This position closely collaborates with the Learning and Engagement team to ensure the operational, conservation, guest and community engagement priorities of Audubon Louisiana Nature Center are met. The Ops Ranger is tasked with maintaining indoor and outdoor areas including, but not limited to restrooms/staff areas, trails and boardwalks, natural spaces, landscaped areas, and greenhouse being mindful of budgetary restraints; and following the vision of the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center.

Day to Day Responsibilities 

•    Maintains the Nature Center buildings, facilities, exhibits, trails, machinery, tools and other resources, as directed. 

•    Opens and closes the facility, per schedule and procedures, recognizing that punctuality and attendance are essential to daily operational success.

•    Ensures the restrooms, Planetarium, Interpretive Center and classrooms are ready for use (housekeeping).

•    With the support of management, ensure Nature Center rooms and spaces are appropriately reserved, prepared, and maintained.

•    Assist the ALNC Safety Officer with executing the safety, emergency, and hurricane preparedness plans; and as essential personnel, carry out post storm procedures. 

•    Be willing to work in a natural environment (all seasons), providing appropriate habitats for all wildlife. 

•    Willing to learn and enthusiastically preserve and interpret the native ecology of our region and its place in the global setting.

•    Per the Land Stewardship Plan for the Nature Center, assist in the removal of invasive vegetative species and lead volunteers in such efforts; and restore natural habitats through clearing, planting, and grounds maintenance.

•    Assist in the pursuit of an ever-improving nature center and seek ways to improve efficiency and minimize costs.

Additional/Overall Skills:

•    Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.

•    Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.

•    Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.

•    Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.

•    The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

Must Haves: 

•     Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions

•     Must have the ability to use mobile devices, computer, fax, scanner, phone and copy machine. 

•    Comfortable around chainsaw activity, and able to learn to operate. 

•    Common hand and power tool proficiency required. Ability to operate gasoline powered equipment like pressure washer; leaf blowers; lawn mowers; hedge and line trimmers etc... 

•    Willingness to operate common janitorial equipment daily, including toilet wand/brush, mops, brooms, vacuums, squeegee etc…

Nice-to-Haves:

•     Previous experience in a park or nature Center setting preferred

•    In lieu of experience in a park or nature center, alternative routes to this position might include experience in any of the following areas: custodial/ janitorial; security; forestry/natural resources/environmental science/wildlife management, and/or building trades, such as carpentry, landscaping/arborist, plumbing, HVAC; facilities management or operations. 

Physical Requirements: 

•    Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting.

•    Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly.

•    Prolonged standing, walking, and climbing of stairs or ladders.

•    Frequent bending, crouching, twisting, and reaching.

•    Manual dexterity to operate machinery or handle tools.

•    Frequent use of vision and hearing to assess surroundings and job tasks.

•    Sustained manual dexterity and coordination.

•    Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks.