Park Ranger I - Urban Trails Ranger Team

As a Park Ranger, you will ensure the City's natural and historical resources are maintained, preserved, and protected according to pertinent laws, ordinances, and regulations; provide enforcement pertaining to the City of Colorado Springs Parks Code Chapter 9; Article 9.

The Park Ranger is responsible for upholding safety and environmental regulations set by numerous park plans and monitoring the activities of assigned parks and recreation facilities. This position requires effective communication skills related to conflict resolution and de-escalating situations in a professional manner. Situations can engage a variety of people with diverse backgrounds which will include mental health and homeless community members. Subsequently, having former law enforcement, park ranger, or military experience is beneficial.

As a Park Ranger I, you will partake in:

• Public Safety and Emergency Response
  • Patrol urban parks and trails daily to ensure public safety and address health or environmental concerns.
  • Respond to emergencies and coordinate with law enforcement, fire, utilities, and other public safety personnel to manage incidents and closures.
  • Serve as a liaison between the public and intergovernmental agencies, maintaining ongoing communication with Colorado Springs Police and Fire Departments, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Springs Utilities, and the Humane Society.
• Homeless Outreach and Site Management
  • Issue official notices to unauthorized homeless encampments on City park property in accordance with municipal code and department protocols.
  • Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of homeless camp cleanups in collaboration with City departments and community partners.
  • Monitor encampments for health, safety, and environmental concerns and report findings to appropriate agencies.
• Park Health, Resource Protection, and Data Management
  • Conduct routine assessments to identify potential hazards and protect natural resources within park and trail systems.
  • Collect and maintain data on park issues, including safety incidents, environmental concerns, and usage trends.
  • Monitor for and document resource damage such as trail erosion, vandalism, or overuse.
  • Respond to reports of sick, injured, or deceased animals; coordinate removal and follow appropriate procedures.
• Facility and Event Support
  • Prepare park facilities for public and private events, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and accessibility.
  • Collaborate with event coordinators to verify permit compliance and support logistics before, during, and after events.
  • Monitor and update park signage to ensure accurate and current information for the public.
  • Provide post-event evaluations and recommendations for facility improvements or procedural changes.
  • Other duties as assigned

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

Knowledge of:

• Natural area/open space/public lands conservation and management practices and techniques
• Skills in public relations and communications
• Visitor impact management assessment tools
• Strong skills with computers, iPads, and other technology
• Operation and basic maintenance needs of equipment utilized in park patrol.
• Transport and tie-down requirements and traffic control training and techniques
• Operations, services, and activities of park facilities and programs

• Become knowledgeable of applicable municipal code
• Handle stressful & emergency situations
• Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing
• Coordinate care for sick and/or injured animals
• Become knowledgeable of regional, county, and state fire, health, safety, and animal welfare codes pertinent to parks and trails

• Equivalent to the completion of twelfth grade (high school diploma or GED).
• One year of full-time, professional experience in public safety, environmental education, park maintenance, or a related field.
• Must possess or be able to acquire the following certifications and/or licenses
  • Possess upon hire and maintain a valid, non-probationary driver's license not subject to restriction related to alcohol and/or drug violations or pending charges
  • Possess, or obtain within three months of hire, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and First Aid certifications 

• Possess Wilderness First Aid certification.
• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Outdoor Recreation, Criminal Justice, or related field.
• Completion of Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator training.
• Experience working with unhoused individuals or groups.

Physical Demands: This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently and 100 pounds occasionally with assistance. The ability to sit, stand, run, or walk for prolonged periods is also required.

Please contact Katie McLaughlin at [email protected] for any questions about this position.