Park Ranger

This position is scheduled to receive the following pay increases: 5% Effective January 9, 2027 5% Effective July 10, 2027 5% Effective July 8, 2028 This is a non-sworn classification in the City of Westminster Police Department. Incumbents perform various administrative duties addressing park and community related issues, which require problem solving, community engagement and enforcement actions. Successful performance of the work requires the frequent use of tact, discretion, independent judgment, knowledge of departmental and City activities, and extensive staff and public contact. Positions at this level receive training on Penal Code 832, state, county and city laws, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from other administrative classifications in that it functions at a higher and more complex support role and may have a specialization in specific programs and related activities. EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. The objective of a Park Ranger is to gain compliance by being visible and dealing with the public in a positive, effective and courteous manner. Provides comprehensive staff support to the Police Department on a wide variety of programs, projects, and park related services. To protect and patrol our parks on foot and in vehicle, checking for criminal activity, suspicious circumstances, and hazardous conditions. Be able to detect violations of the law, issue warnings and citations, detain violators, and be able to contact law enforcement for the arrest and transportation of violators. Respond to and report emergencies, obtain assistance, control crowds, direct traffic, protect life and property and administer first aid. Other special duty assignments and work will be assigned as required. Operates portable communication devices such as a mobile personal computer and a two-way radio while conducting patrols to communicate with dispatchers and other police personnel. Provides information and assistance to the public regarding park use and permit requirements; resolves customer and/or park use disputes, answers questions, directs persons to specific facilities and events, and searches for lost children. Impounds abandoned bicycles, property, evidence, and drug related paraphernalia. Responds to calls for service at our parks from Police Dispatch not requiring a sworn officer. Utilizes physical restraints such as handcuffs, pepper spray and Tasers. Mants logs, activities and written reports of incidents, accidents or other occurrences. Reports hazardous or unusual conditions or malfunctions observed. Calls sworn law enforcement officials whenever arrests should be made or assistance is needed. Knowledge of: Basic functions, principles, and practices of law enforcement agencies including crime scene investigations and evidence retention practices and regulations. Legislative activities of Federal, State, and local governments. Activities and programs of the City’s Police Department. Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility. Occupational hazards and standard safety practices necessary in the assigned area. Research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and computer applications. English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation. Techniques for dealing with and solving the problems presented by a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, in person and over the telephone. Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public and City staff. Ability to: Complete a rigorous field training program under the daily supervision of a police officer, demonstrating critical thinking, judgement, customer service, verbal and written communication skills, temperament and suitability. Obtain necessary information from individuals in stressful or emergency situations. Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with complex Federal, State, and local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances. Use a conducted energy device (Taser) and pepper spray, in the performance of the Park Ranger duties, in accordance with specific policies. Analyze situations and identify pertinent problems/issues; collect relevant information; evaluate realistic options; and recommend/implement an appropriate course of action. Establish rapport with members of the general public and obtain their compliance with directives; determine and expedite appropriate action in response to emergency situations. Perform technical, detailed, and responsible field support work. Operate radio communication equipment; and use a body worn camera to audio/video record all contacts with the public. Compose correspondence independently or from brief instructions. Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials. Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and specialized software applications. Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing. Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines. Deescalate situations. Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: High School Diploma or possession of a GED is required. Completion of a PC 832 course is desired . (Successful completion of California Penal Code 832 training is required by the end of the first year.) Applicants who have successfully graduated from a California Basic Course Police Academy Modular Level I, II or III are considered highly desirable. Training must include instruction in first aid, principled policing, laws of arrest, search and seizure, de-escalation, traffic enforcement, cultural diversity and arrest and control. Licenses and Certifications: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License by time of appointment. Possession of or ability to obtain the following: First Aid and CPR certification. PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS Work is performed in a variety of environmental conditions with exposure to temperature variations, noise, vibrations, fumes, odors and dust. Physical demands require bending, stooping, standing and walking. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking on uneven terrain and climbing and descending structures to identify problems or hazards. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate police services equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites. Employees must possess the ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds, push, and pull materials and objects necessary to perform job functions. Incumbents must be able to see and hear in normal range with or without correction and communicate verbally and in writing. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. The principal duties of this class are performed in a field/park environment with exposure to criminal offenders, mentally ill individuals, and persons potentially infected with communicable diseases. Classification requires successful completion of a pre-hire physical and detailed police background investigation. #J-18808-Ljbffr