Park Superintendent Trainee

this position manages the park’s visitor information center, including store and gift shop operations, theater and exhibit area. Job duties include managing camping and pavilion reservations, answering the phone, greeting customers, providing information to the public and resolving complaints.

other duties include handling monetary transactions, balancing daily receipts, ordering and maintaining inventory, pricing resale items, preparing displays, completing performance reviews, and completing associated reports.

this position trains and supervises 2 full‑time and up to 6 seasonal employees in facility operations and will perform other duties as assigned. Applicant must be able to work a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. A criminal background check is required.

the arkansas department of parks, heritage and tourism has three major divisions: arkansas state parks, arkansas heritage, and arkansas tourism. Arkansas state parks manages 52 state parks and promotes arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas heritage preserves and promotes arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

class code: rpa
21p

pay grade: sgs
05

salary range: $47,397–$71,148

the park superintendent trainee is an entry‑level position designed to provide hands‑on training and professional development for individuals pursuing a career in state park management. Under the supervision of an experienced park superintendent, the trainee will learn and assist with the daily operations, visitor services, maintenance, environmental conservation, and administrative functions of a state park.

participate in a structured training program to gain knowledge of state park policies, facility operations, visitor services, and park maintenance. Shadow experienced park superintendents and staff to develop practical skills in park management and conservation efforts. Engage in hands‑on learning experiences in areas such as trail maintenance, facility upkeep, safety procedures, and resource conservation. Assist in routine maintenance tasks, including landscaping, trail upkeep, cleaning facilities, and repairing park infrastructure.

Monitor and help enforce park regulations, environmental policies, and visitor safety protocols. Provide information and assistance to park visitors, ensuring a positive and safe guest experience. Assist in educational and recreational programs, ensuring alignment with conservation and heritage goals. Support the coordination of educational programs, guided tours, and community events. Assist with conflict resolution and visitor concerns, ensuring compliance with park rules.

Assist in processing park fees, tracking revenue, and maintaining financial records. Support record‑keeping, data entry, and inventory management for park facilities and equipment. Learn best practices in natural resource management, environmental protection, and habitat conservation. Assist with wildlife monitoring, water quality assessments, and sustainability initiatives.

ability to adapt to changing tasks and work environments. Strong problem‑solving skills and a willingness to take initiative. Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills to interact with visitors, staff, and community stakeholders. Ability to handle visitor inquiries, concerns, and complaints in a professional manner. Comfort with public speaking, group presentations, and community outreach. Basic knowledge of maintenance, landscaping, and facility upkeep.

Ability to perform manual labor and operate maintenance tools safely. Awareness and ability to respond to first aid, cpr, and emergency response protocols (training will be provided).

at least six months of experience in parks, environmental education, customer service, outdoor recreation, or a related field.

satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and…