Interpretive Ranger

DEFINITION

Under the direction of the Senior Interpretive Ranger, the Interpretive Ranger assists with educational, interpretive, volunteer, outreach, and visitor service programs that connect visitors with the natural, cultural, and historical resources of the San Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Authority. The position works closely with volunteers, schools, partner organizations, community groups, and the general public to support environmental education, public engagement, special events, and stewardship activities that further the mission of the San Dieguito River Park JPA.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

The following duties are representative of the work performed and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list.

• Conduct interpretive and environmental education programs for youth and adult audiences, including hikes, presentations, workshops, field trips, camps, and other public programs.
• Assist with preparation and maintenance of educational materials, exhibits, displays, and interpretive resources.
• Support volunteer recruitment, orientation, training, scheduling, communication, and recognition activities.
• Represent the Park at community events, outreach activities, meetings, fairs, festivals, and partner programs.
• Assist with newsletters, promotional materials, social media content, website updates, and other public communications.
• Respond to inquiries from visitors, volunteers, schools, community organizations, and the general public regarding Park programs, facilities, and regulations.
• Assist with planning and implementation of educational programs, volunteer activities, community events, fundraising activities, and special projects.
• Assist with operation and interpretation of Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead and other visitor facilities.
• Maintain schedules, attendance records, volunteer records, and related program documentation.
• Assist other Park staff with projects and assignments that support agency goals and objectives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education, training, and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties listed above.
• Enthusiasm for working with people and helping them connect with nature, history, and conservation.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple assignments, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to work effectively with volunteers, schools, community organizations, partner agencies, and the general public.
• Knowledge of environmental education, interpretation, recreation programming, volunteer engagement, public outreach, or related fields.
• Knowledge of natural resources, local ecology, cultural history, or recreation management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Canva, and other common communication and productivity tools.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in parks and recreation, environmental studies, natural resources, biology, ecology, education, history, communications, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience in environmental education, interpretation, recreation programs, volunteer coordination, customer service, museums, nature centers, camps, community outreach, nonprofit organizations, or related fields is desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Frequent walking, hiking, standing, bending, climbing, and lifting of materials and equipment.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
• Work schedule may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Office work includes preparation of reports, correspondence, schedules, presentations, and other administrative duties.
• Travel between Park facilities and program locations as required.

SPECIAL NOTES, LICENSES OR REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.
• First Aid and CPR certification within sixty (60) days of hire.
• Successful completion of required background screening and employment requirements.

PROMOTION POTENTIALSalary adjustments and advancement opportunities may be considered based on employee performance, available funding, approved budgets, and organizational needs. New employees serve a probationary period of six (6) months.