Park Interpretive Ranger - Rio Grande Nature Center

19.82 - $31.71 Hourly

41,218 - $65,949 Annually

This position is a Pay Band 60

Posting Details

This posting will be used for ongoing recruitment and may close at any time. Applicant lists may be screened more than once.

Outdoor recreation is a driving force in New Mexico's economy and State Parks is a key player. Connected to communities statewide, our 35 state parks are often economic drivers for local businesses, towns, and cities. Many rural communities rely on a state park as a major source of economic development. The State Parks' mission is to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources, provide first-class recreational and education facilities and opportunities, and promote public safety to benefit and enrich the lives of visitors. State Parks is committed to this mission, employing professional, dedicated staff to ensure that parks are cared for and preserved to the highest professional standards. State Park programs provide safe, fun, and educational experiences for the whole family.

Why does the job exist?

This position is responsible for coordinating and providing programs and events at Rio Grande Nature Center and Manzano Mountain State Parks. This position must have experience in creating and facilitating educational and entertainment events, as well as working with schools, local interest groups and City of Albuquerque Open Space. Experience working with volunteers to facilitate and promote educational programs and special events to encourage community involvement in the park. This position should have knowledge of natural / cultural history, knowledge of state standards and curriculum benchmarks of school educational programs. The incumbent must demonstrate clear communication skills, organizational skills and attention to detail while working with park programs and interpretive reports. Training and experience in interpretive programs and exhibits will be required to be successful in this position, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions and learn new ideas and program materials are necessary. The incumbent will collect, process, receipt and secure park use fees when assigned, in accordance with Department and Division policies and procedures. Assist with grounds and facility maintenance using Standards of Care.

How does it get done?

This position should have knowledge of natural / cultural history, knowledge of state standards and curriculum benchmarks of school educational programs. The incumbent must demonstrate clear communication skills, organizational skills and attention to detail while working with park programs and interpretive reports. Experience working with volunteers to facilitate and promote educational programs and special events to encourage community involvement in the park. Training and experience in interpretive programs and exhibits will be required to be successful in this position, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions and learn new ideas and program materials are necessary.

Who are the customers?

Internal and external customers, visitors throughout the state of New Mexico and surrounding states who are campers, hikers, and boaters that come to visit the park for a variety of reasons. Local community businesses in surrounding areas of the park.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in public speaking and providing interpretive educational programs to the public.

• The ideal candidate will be a certified interpretive guide through the National Association of Interpretation.
• Extensive experience in natural resources and outdoor recreation is preferred.
• Knowledge in resource management and best practices.
• Education based in natural / cultural resources or education.
• Experience working with partnering agencies, organizations, and institutions.
• Experience working in marketing and outreach.
• Experience instructing / teaching diverse audiences.

Minimum Qualification

Associate's degree in education or training and two (2) years office administration experience and / or lesson plan and curriculum design. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and / or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Substitution Table

These combinations of education and experience qualify you for the position :

Education Experience Education Experience 1 High School Diploma or Equivalent AND 4 years of experience OR High School Diploma or Equivalent AND 4 years of experience 2 Associate's degree in the field(s) specified in the minimum qualification AND 2 years of experience Associate's degree or higher in any field AND 4 years of experience 3 Bachelor's degree or higher in the field(s) specified in the minimum qualification AND 0 years of experience

Employment Requirements

Working Conditions

This position works extensively indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions. May be required to work in adverse weather conditions, extreme cold and heat, standing and walking for extended periods of time. Exposure to VDT and extensive computer and telephone use is required. Verbal communication with large groups of people. Conditions require lifting up to 25 lbs. Weekend / holiday work required and may include shift work or extended hours. Must be able to adapt to various ages and abilities of State Park visitors or partners. Sit for extended periods of time operating computer terminal or other office equipment or doing administrative duties. Position will require day travel and may require overnight.

Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information : Levi Dean. Email

For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

Bargaining Unit Position

This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Salary : $41,218 - $65,949