Park Ranger

Full-Time Park Ranger

Rate: $32.2519 | Starting salary based on prior experience and education.
Pay Grade: OPBA | Collective Bargaining Unit
Location: Concord Woods Nature Park, Concord Twp., OH 44077

Position

Description:

Under the direction of the Chief Ranger, the Park Ranger (Union) serves as a certified law enforcement officer responsible for providing visitor safety, resource protection, and enforcement of park rules and Ohio laws. Rangers patrol by vehicle, foot, bike, ATV; respond to calls for service; conduct investigations; write reports; provide community education; and support public safety operations. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conducting investigations, collecting evidence, and preparing accurate reports.
• Assisting visitors and providing positive public engagement and education.
• Maintaining firearms, defensive tactics, and emergency response proficiency.
• Providing first aid, rescue assistance, and emergency response support.
• Representing Lake Metroparks during community programs and public events.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement, Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Public Administration, or related field preferred.
• Experience in park or natural resources law enforcement preferred.
• Ohio Peace Officer Certificate required upon hire.
• Valid driver's license; must be insurable under agency policy.
• Certification in First Aid/CPR preferred.

Position Requirements:

• Successful completion of the Ranger Field Training Program.
• Ability to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and respond to 24‑hour call‑ins.
• Ability to perform law enforcement physical duties including patrol, defensive tactics, and foot pursuits.
• Must pass pre‑employment drug screening, background investigation, psychological evaluation, and polygraph/VSA as required.
• Ability to work independently while demonstrating professionalism and sound judgment.

Benefits: Lake Metroparks offers a generous, comprehensive benefits package for full‑time employees, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• OPERS membership (Ohio Public Employees Retirement System)
• Employer‑paid life insurance
• Paid leave policies: vacation, personal, sick, and holiday leave
• Optional benefits: additional life insurance, short‑term disability, and deferred compensation
• Additional perks:
  Northeastern Ohio Inter‑Museum Council membership, agency discounts, and tuition reimbursement