Park Ranger

Department: Mahaska County Conservation Board
Status: Full Time
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Executive Director of Mahaska County Conservation Board
Post Date: April 23, 2026 at 9:00 am
Application Deadline: Posted Until Filled

Job Description

The Park Ranger is a full-time non-exempt, at will employee of the Mahaska County Conservation Board. This position shall have a probationary period of six (6) months commencing on the date of hire or appointment as law enforcement officer if Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) certified or terminating nine (9) months following the date of successful completion of training at the ILEA. The Park Ranger carries out assigned routine duties relating to maintenance in all county conservation areas and completes improvement projects in the areas assigned, under the supervision of the Executive Director. The Park Ranger is responsible for the care and maintenance of all MCCB equipment. The Park Ranger serves as supervisor for all part-time and seasonal help assigned to the operation section of the department. Performs law enforcement duties in MCCB areas by patrolling and checking facilities as scheduled. The Park Ranger assists the public by providing information and help when needed. The Park Ranger is responsible for developing and carrying out natural resource management plans.

Specific Duties:

Provides routine maintenance for all MCCB areas,
Performs law enforcement duties in accordance to MCCB policy,
Patrol Park areas enforcing laws/regulations pertaining to the operation of county parks; issue summons, and arrest persons violating state, federal, or local laws/regulations; may counsel, advise, or detain individuals whose actions endanger persons/property; cooperates/coordinates with local law enforcement agency activities; keeps the Director apprised of activities; provides for the safety of visitors, including administration of first aid in emergencies. Collects and reports all law enforcement incidences,
Collect fees in MCCB areas and facilities,
Assists with conservation practices on private lands as assigned,
Represents MCCB at official meetings as assigned,
Assists with public relations/education efforts as assigned,
Keeps shop and equipment storage areas clean and in safe conditions at all times,
Works to keep all vehicles and equipment in good repair and working condition by providing preventative maintenance on a regular basis,
Promptly informs Director of equipment malfunctions, equipment needs and material needs,
Reports accidents and injuries suffered by ranger, subordinates, or other staff to Director as soon as possible,
Works to control noxious and invasive species in MCCB areas in an effective and safe manner,
Meets public and other staff members in a courteous, professional manner,
Trains subordinate employees in the safe operation of equipment and tools,
Performs all other duties as assigned- Job description in no way states every duty to be performed by the employee.

Job Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in natural resource, science, law enforcement or a related field or from an accredited two year college with an Associate degree in any natural resource, science, law enforcement or related field and three years’ experience in park management. Must be eligible for enrollment in Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) or an ILEA graduate.

Required Special Certification Requirements:

Must have a valid Iowa driver’s license and dependable transportation.
Must have or be able to acquire within one (1) year of hire the following:
The ability to acquire Class A CDL,
Law Enforcement Officer by State of Iowa (ILEA),
Chemical Applicators Certification in Category 6,
Basic Wildland Firefighter (S-130), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190) and Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) certifications,
Chainsaw Safety certification,
CPR, First Aid, AED certification.

Job Hours

Generally, 40 hours per week during a seven (7) day period. May be required to work additional hours on weekends or during the week.

Applications & Related Files

Additional Information

Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements such as a criminal background and pre-employment physical including drug screening.

Mahaska County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and position incumbents to discuss accommodations with Employer.

All Job Listings