What are the responsibilities and job description for the TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter) position at TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE?
TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter)
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Gonzales, Texas United States
Posted: Apr 08, 2025
Full Time
Clerical and Administrative Support
Forestry
Parks and Recreation
TPWD MISSION
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
PLEASE NOTE:
All applications must contain complete job histories, which includes job title, dates of employment (month/year) and hours worked per week, name of employer, supervisor's name and phone number and a description of duties performed.
Job history and volunteer experience should be listed in the work history section of the application to receive credit towards meeting the minimum requirements. Part-time experience credit is prorated based on the duration and hours worked per week. Please indicate hours worked for part-time/temporary/seasonal experience. If this information is not submitted, your application will be considered incomplete.
Applications with "See attached" or "See resume" will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification; you may state 'unknown' for any incomplete fields. If education is used to meet the minimum requirements of the job posting, a copy of a college transcript(s) issued from the registrar must be provided if you are selected for an interview.
WATCH OUR VIDEO ON HOW TO APPLY FOR JOBS
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS: Work In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. To complete the supplemental questions, go to CAPPS Recruit to register or login. CAPPS Recruit, https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY CODES:
Job Classification
Service
Military Specialty
Park Ranger I-V
Army
11B, 11C, 11A
Park Ranger I-V
Navy
RS, SN, YN, YNS
Park Ranger I-V
Coast Guard
MST, MSSR
Park Ranger I-V
Marine Corps
0300, 0365, 0369
Park Ranger I-V
Air Force
9T000
https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/
https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE:
If you choose to claim military employment preference as outlined by the State of Texas, you must attach the required documentation referenced below at the time your application is submitted . If you have questions regarding this requirement, please visit our Military Employment Reference page at https://tpwd.texas.gov/jobs/veterans/ .
Required forms that will need to be attached with application for Military Employment Preference
Veteran- DD214 showing honorable discharge or Statement of Service (only for transitioning service members who have not reached their date of separation). Surviving spouse of a veteran who has not remarried- Marriage Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation. Orphan of a veteran killed while on active duty- Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation. Spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on Active Duty- Marriage Certificate and copy of spouses active-duty military orders. Spouse of a veteran with disability and is the primary income for household- Marriage Certificate, Veterans DD214, and VA Benefits Summary Letter showing disability rating.
Documentation must be attached to the application before military preference can be granted.
BENEFITS:
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension, and frequent training and staff development opportunities. Other benefits include longevity pay, merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401K/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program and a Return to Work Program. For new employees or rehires, health insurance is available the 1st of the following month after a 60-day waiting period. Click HERE to view our Benefits page.
HIRING CONTACT: Nathan Reynolds (830)672-3266
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Palmetto State Park, 78 Park Road 11 South Gonzales, TX 78629
GENERAL DESCRIPTION :
Palmetto State Park boasts an amazing diversity of plant and animal life. This unusual area resembles the tropics more than Central Texas with its ephemeral swamp and isolated stand of dwarf palmettos for which the park is named.
Under the direction of the Park Superintendent, this position performs routine (journey-level) state park operations work. Responsible for coordinating with the Park Management for planning and conducting interpretive programs for Palmetto State Park. Is responsible for assisting with the research, development, and implementation of interpretive programs, including but not limited to: exhibits, tours, school programs, guided walks, special events, training workshops, and seminars based on the interpretive purposes of Palmetto State Park and its mission. Assists with the volunteer program. Prepares reports, maintains administrative and interpretive files, and assists with visitors' service needs, including, revenue collection, entrance fee, store sales, and periodic grounds and facility maintenance. 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.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :
Education :
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.
Experience :
No experience required.
Licensure :
Must possess a valid State driver's license.
NOTE : Retention of position contingent on obtaining and maintaining required license.
ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS :
Education :
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.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :
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 Resources Conservation, Range Management, Forestry, Biology, Anthropology/Archeology, History, or closely related field.
Experience :
Experience in customer service.
Experience in park operations.
Experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :
Knowledge of interpretive techniques and principles.
Knowledge of special event planning and implementation.
Knowledge of Texas flora and fauna.
Knowledge of environmental education programs.
Knowledge of general maintenance techniques.
Knowledge of social media platforms.
Knowledge of the principles of park administration.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of natural and cultural resources management.
Knowledge of methods of interpretation and education.
Knowledge of standard financial and business management principles.
Skill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook.
Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
Skill in effective interpretive techniques, program preparation, and presentations.
Skill in planning, organizing, and implementing public presentations and guided tours for all age groups.
Skill in completing reports and providing accurate information.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.
Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner.
Skill in facilitating meetings.
Skill in general maintenance techniques.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to accurately handle cash and account for revenue collected.
Ability to issue permits.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.
WORKING CONDITIONS :
Required to work in a public park with overnight camping and day use.
Required to work 40 hours per week, including various schedules with hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and days off other than Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Required to operate a tram or vehicle with less than 15 passengers.
Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Required to operate a State vehicle.
Required to travel 5% with possible overnight stays.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WATCH OUR VIDEO ON HOW TO APPLY FOR JOBS
Closing Date: Apr 21, 2025, 11:59:00 PM
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
PLEASE NOTE:
All applications must contain complete job histories, which includes job title, dates of employment (month/year) and hours worked per week, name of employer, supervisor's name and phone number and a description of duties performed.
Job history and volunteer experience should be listed in the work history section of the application to receive credit towards meeting the minimum requirements. Part-time experience credit is prorated based on the duration and hours worked per week. Please indicate hours worked for part-time/temporary/seasonal experience. If this information is not submitted, your application will be considered incomplete.
Applications with "See attached" or "See resume" will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification; you may state 'unknown' for any incomplete fields. If education is used to meet the minimum requirements of the job posting, a copy of a college transcript(s) issued from the registrar must be provided if you are selected for an interview.
WATCH OUR VIDEO ON HOW TO APPLY FOR JOBS
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS: Work In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. To complete the supplemental questions, go to CAPPS Recruit to register or login. CAPPS Recruit, https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY CODES:
Job Classification
Service
Military Specialty
Park Ranger I-V
Army
11B, 11C, 11A
Park Ranger I-V
Navy
RS, SN, YN, YNS
Park Ranger I-V
Coast Guard
MST, MSSR
Park Ranger I-V
Marine Corps
0300, 0365, 0369
Park Ranger I-V
Air Force
9T000
- More information on military occupational specialty codes can be found below:
https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/
https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE:
If you choose to claim military employment preference as outlined by the State of Texas, you must attach the required documentation referenced below at the time your application is submitted . If you have questions regarding this requirement, please visit our Military Employment Reference page at https://tpwd.texas.gov/jobs/veterans/ .
Required forms that will need to be attached with application for Military Employment Preference
Veteran- DD214 showing honorable discharge or Statement of Service (only for transitioning service members who have not reached their date of separation). Surviving spouse of a veteran who has not remarried- Marriage Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation. Orphan of a veteran killed while on active duty- Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation. Spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on Active Duty- Marriage Certificate and copy of spouses active-duty military orders. Spouse of a veteran with disability and is the primary income for household- Marriage Certificate, Veterans DD214, and VA Benefits Summary Letter showing disability rating.
Documentation must be attached to the application before military preference can be granted.
BENEFITS:
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension, and frequent training and staff development opportunities. Other benefits include longevity pay, merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401K/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program and a Return to Work Program. For new employees or rehires, health insurance is available the 1st of the following month after a 60-day waiting period. Click HERE to view our Benefits page.
HIRING CONTACT: Nathan Reynolds (830)672-3266
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Palmetto State Park, 78 Park Road 11 South Gonzales, TX 78629
GENERAL DESCRIPTION :
Palmetto State Park boasts an amazing diversity of plant and animal life. This unusual area resembles the tropics more than Central Texas with its ephemeral swamp and isolated stand of dwarf palmettos for which the park is named.
Under the direction of the Park Superintendent, this position performs routine (journey-level) state park operations work. Responsible for coordinating with the Park Management for planning and conducting interpretive programs for Palmetto State Park. Is responsible for assisting with the research, development, and implementation of interpretive programs, including but not limited to: exhibits, tours, school programs, guided walks, special events, training workshops, and seminars based on the interpretive purposes of Palmetto State Park and its mission. Assists with the volunteer program. Prepares reports, maintains administrative and interpretive files, and assists with visitors' service needs, including, revenue collection, entrance fee, store sales, and periodic grounds and facility maintenance. 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.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :
Education :
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.
Experience :
No experience required.
Licensure :
Must possess a valid State driver's license.
NOTE : Retention of position contingent on obtaining and maintaining required license.
ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS :
Education :
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.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :
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 Resources Conservation, Range Management, Forestry, Biology, Anthropology/Archeology, History, or closely related field.
Experience :
Experience in customer service.
Experience in park operations.
Experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :
Knowledge of interpretive techniques and principles.
Knowledge of special event planning and implementation.
Knowledge of Texas flora and fauna.
Knowledge of environmental education programs.
Knowledge of general maintenance techniques.
Knowledge of social media platforms.
Knowledge of the principles of park administration.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of natural and cultural resources management.
Knowledge of methods of interpretation and education.
Knowledge of standard financial and business management principles.
Skill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook.
Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
Skill in effective interpretive techniques, program preparation, and presentations.
Skill in planning, organizing, and implementing public presentations and guided tours for all age groups.
Skill in completing reports and providing accurate information.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.
Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner.
Skill in facilitating meetings.
Skill in general maintenance techniques.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to accurately handle cash and account for revenue collected.
Ability to issue permits.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.
WORKING CONDITIONS :
Required to work in a public park with overnight camping and day use.
Required to work 40 hours per week, including various schedules with hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and days off other than Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Required to operate a tram or vehicle with less than 15 passengers.
Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Required to operate a State vehicle.
Required to travel 5% with possible overnight stays.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WATCH OUR VIDEO ON HOW TO APPLY FOR JOBS
Closing Date: Apr 21, 2025, 11:59:00 PM
Texas Parks and Wildlife
(512) 389-4545
We are TPWD
Providing outdoor recreational opportunities, managing and protecting fish and wildlife habitat, and managing parklands and historic areas
Divisions & Positions
Our skilled workforce operates within 13 divisions at 200 locations across Texas.
Mission
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Philosophy
In fulfilling our mission, we will: Be a recognized national leader in implementing effective natural resources conservation and outdoor recreational programs; Serve the state of Texas, its citizens, and our employees with the highest standards of service, professionalism, fairness, courtesy, and respect; Rely on the best available science to guide our conservation decisions; Responsibly manage agency finances and appropriations to ensure the most efficient and effective use of tax-payer and user fee resources; Attract and retain the best, brightest, and most talented workforce to successfully execute our mission.
