Jobs Park Ranger Intern - Hitchcock Nature Center/Narrows River Park

Summary

Pottawattamie County Conservation is announcing the hiring of a Park Ranger Intern for Hitchcock Nature Center located in Honey Creek, Iowa, and Narrows River Park located in Council Bluffs, Iowa! 

This is a college internship program that runs from May 15th through September 15th or as the intern schedule permits.

Application review will begin on February 1, 2024 and the application process will remain open until filled. Please attach both a resume and a cover letter with your application.

An individual in this position is responsible for assisting Park Rangers with the management of assigned County parks and/or properties in accordance with Conservation Board policies, state laws, and standard conservation practices. This position will assist the Park Rangers at both Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek, Iowa and Narrows River Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa. 

Duties include but not limited to; supervision of other seasonal staff and volunteers, collection of fees, public safety, public relations, planning of events, light construction, park maintenance, environmental education, and other duties as required.  Job duties require a considerable amount of physical activity, including walking, standing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, stooping and climbing.

Non-standard workweek that will include holidays, evenings and weekends. Professionalism and good public relations are essential, as is time management. Internships may qualify for college credit.  Job performance evaluations will be completed.  

Essential Functions

Assist Park Ranger with the management of county parks including maintenance and public relations.

 

Register campers, collect user, camper and other miscellaneous fees and provide receipts of payment.  Prepare and collect fees for shelter rentals.

 

Perform routine ground maintenance in parks and assigned properties including, but not limited to mowing, trimming, pruning, and trash removal.

 

Perform road and trail maintenance duties such as blading and filing holes.

 

Perform routine building maintenance and clean and stock supplies in park facilities such as restrooms, shower houses, cabins, and shelters.

 

Assist Park Ranger with the development and presentation of educational programs, projects, and events that promote conservation ethics, and natural resource appreciation.

 

Assist Park Ranger with the supervision of seasonal staff and volunteers.

 

Patrol parks in vehicles and on foot to perform public relations through personal contacts with users, enforce laws, rules and regulations and warn those in violation.  

Perform other functions as directed or as the situation dictates.

Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Ability

General knowledge of and/or ability to learn principles of conservation, wildlife, and fish management and natural resource preservation.

 

General knowledge of the care and safe operation of both manual and power tools and equipment used in maintenance and repair tasks.

 

General knowledge of routine maintenance and repair to equipment, grounds, and facilities.

 

General knowledge of various outdoor recreational activities, such as boating, hiking, camping, fishing and canoeing.

 

Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.

 

Ability to accurately prepare and maintain basic departmental records and reports.

 

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, various civic organizations, and the general public.

Essential Education, Certification, and/or Licenses

Must have a valid driver’s license and maintain it throughout the course of employment.  Must have a good driving record.

 

The incumbent cannot have been convicted of a felony in the past 2 years.

 

CPR and basic first aid certification is preferred. 

Must be at least 18 years of age and attending or planning to attend college in the conservation /natural resource field.