Interpretive Ranger 1-2 (Nature)

About the role

The Office of State Parks (OSP) serves the citizens of Louisiana and visitors by preserving and interpreting natural areas of unique or exceptional scenic value, planning, developing and operating sites that provide outdoor recreation opportunities in natural surroundings, preserving and interpreting historical and scientific sites of statewide importance and administering intergovernmental programs related to outdoor recreation and trails.

This position is located at Palmetto Island State Park, in Abbeville, LA. The purpose of this position is to provide site interpretation to site visitors through guided tours, audio­visual presentations, living history demonstrations, and other methods. It is the responsibility of this position to ensure consistency in programming, and the programs offered are of high quality.

An Ideal Candidate Will Possess the Following Competencies

• Accepting Direction: The ability to be open and willing to follow guidance or instructions.
• Learning Actively: The ability to pursue learning, seek feedback, and integrate new knowledge to improve personal and professional performance.
• Thinking Critically: The ability to analyze information objectively, identify connections across sources, and form logical, well-supported conclusions.
• Communicating Effectively: The ability to convey information, ideas, and emotions using structured communication methods that promote understanding and engagement.
• Focusing on Customers: The ability to understand and meet the needs, preferences, and experiences of internal and external customers.
• Fostering Engagement: The ability to build a supportive environment that encourages motivation, belonging, and active participation.
• Managing Programs: The ability to plan, execute, monitor, and evaluate programs to achieve strategic objectives and long-term outcomes.

Additional information

Three years of experience in archaeological or anthropological work; or in planning or presenting interpretive or educational programs relating to cultural or physical history; ORThree years of experience in conservation work or natural resource management; or in planning or presenting interpretive or educational programs relating to the natural environment; ORA bachelor's degree.

The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.

Job Duties

• Oversees the implementation and effectiveness of site level educational programs and interpretive effectiveness with the conduct of program audits and evaluations.
• Plans, constructs, and displays interpretive exhibits for visitor centers as well as site promotional spaces.
• Conceptualizes, designs, coordinates, and develops new educational programs, interpretive exhibits, and audiovisuals.
• Implements site level educational programs and interpretive activities to connect visitors to the site.
• Works with educational institutions to provide related interpretive activities for school groups.
• Works closely with Administrative Office Educational Services and Public Information teams, and site management to review programs and exhibits for historical accuracy, interpretive value, and agency direction.
• Writes, prepares layouts, edits, and produces a variety of promotional and informational materials such as brochures, flyers, media programs, etc.
• Works with site manager to promote special programs throughout the year.
• Provides information and answers inquiries for site visitors.
• Assists with operating fee station to check in guests, or custodial duties of rental facilities, as needed.

• Position-Specific Details: Location: Palmetto Island State Park, in Abbeville, LA
• Appointment Type: Probational, Promotional, or Detail to Special Duty

• Career Progression: This position may be filled as an Interpretive Ranger 1 or 2, depending on experience.
• Work Schedule: State Parks are open 365 days a year.
• Position will work a rotating schedule of 40 hours/week, which can include holidays and/or weekends as needed, to ensure coverage at the park.

• Travel: Position requires driving around the park for patrol as part of the daily shift.
• Travel may be required to other state parks to assist in staffing or events, as needed.
• A state vehicle is available for employee use while on duty.

If offered the position, candidate must be able to drive to Baton Rouge to submit a background check.How to Apply:

No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.

• To apply for this vacancy, click on the “Apply” link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities.
• Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process.
• Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.

• *Information to support your eligibility for the position must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections.
• Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

• If offered the position, the candidate must be able to drive to Baton Rouge to submit a background check.
• Louisiana as a State, is a Model Employer for People with Disabilities.

For further information about this vacancy contact

• Melissa Thibodaux
• Department of Culture, Recreation, & Tourism
• 1051 N. 3rd Street
• Baton Rouge, LA 70802