Howard County Government
Park Ranger Supervisor - (Operations Supervisor I) - Recreation & Parks, Natural
Howard County Government, Columbia, Maryland, United States, 21046
Overview
Howard County: Conveniently located in the heart of central Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County offers the charm of a historic past mixed with the excitement of a cosmopolitan community.
Howard County Government:
Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 85 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) – the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in Maryland. NACo represents county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policymaking.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations.
What you’ll like most about working at Howard County Government:
We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government.
We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will not only be heard, but it will be encouraged!
We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.
As a member of the Howard County Government team, you’ll be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.
Position Summary This is a supervisory Park Ranger position, overseeing the safety and security of the park system. This involves supervision of Park Rangers who conduct routine patrols of County park lands and facilities ensuring compliance with park rules and ordinances. This position supervises and directs security assignments for special events, wildlife management, Emergency Management functions, inventory and maintenance of supplies and equipment, and public outreach and education programs.
Starting Salary / Hiring Range
Starting Salary Hiring Range:
$31.10 - $34.00
$64,688 - $70,720
Class Description Performs supervisory and advanced level operations service work under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes directing the activities of one or more crews of laboring and/or motor equipment operation and repair personnel; driving and operating of heavy motor, construction, and complex mechanical equipment; may direct and participate in the day to day operations of a large size site or sites.
Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Leadership & Supervision:
Works and cooperates with co-workers and supervisors at all levels.
Learns and performs all essential job functions accurately.
Determines staffing assignments depending on program needs and workload.
Develops and manages staff schedules including weekends, evenings, holidays, special events, and daily assignments.
Conducts interviews and recommends hiring decisions.
Oversees evaluations, training, counseling, and disciplinary actions.
Implements orientation and training of new hires in coordination with the Park Ranger Program Manager.
Leads daily or weekly staff meetings, safety briefings, and communication assignments and departmental updates.
Training & Safety
Coordinates training with partner agencies (Howard County Police, Animal Control, Fire and Rescue, Grassroots, etc.).
Oversees training operations for subordinates in all areas of Park Ranger duties, equipment operation, and safety compliance.
Reviews, approves, and ensures completion of job hazard analyses for specific assignments.
Directs and oversees the training of Park Ranger Sharpshooters.
Purchases, issues, and inspects O.C. spray, body armor, uniforms, and specialized safety equipment.
Operations & Administration
Assist the Program Manager with the development of Policies and Procedures related to Park Ranger operations.
Oversees the operational functions of the Park Ranger Section.
Approves and reviews incident reports, timesheets, Department requisitions, Kronos/SAP entries, complaint and inquiry forms, and Ranger program reports (daily, monthly, annual).
Assist with the preparation and management of the annual budget for the Park Ranger program.
Serves on assigned committees.
Make purchases and ensures proper use and maintenance of PDQs and supporting documents.
Approves subordinates’ purchases and expenditures per the operating budget.
Oversees fleet maintenance, mobile data computers, two-way radios, and 800MHz radio inventory.
Maintains compliance with Howard County Police communication protocols.
Public Relations and Community Engagement
Provide guidance on the development and delivery of educational programming, community outreach, and interpretive events.
Oversees the Park Watch volunteer program and ensures proper scheduling and coordination.
Communicates with the public regarding parks issues and responds through the See Click Fix system.
Resolves complex public relations problems.
Enforcement & Resource Protection
Coordinates enforcement actions with Forest Conservation and Open Space Inspectors, including civil citations.
Oversees processing, distribution, and management of incident reports, citations, enforcement database, and other time sensitive documentation.
Coordinates with the Department\'s Deer Management Program in Managed Hunt, Sharpshooting operations and research projects.
Supervise Division resources to ensure natural resource management and protection.
Special Events & Emergency Response
Plans and implements operational strategies for special events, security assignments, traffic and parking management.
Coordinates, monitors, and provides support during emergency situations.
Required to serve as DOC Supervisor when scheduled and maintain all required training.
Identified as essential personnel and must report for duty during emergencies, including DOC staffing.
supervisory Responsibilities This job directly supervises full-time Park Rangers. Responsibilities include: program supervision of regulation enforcement, public outreach, education and assists with Natural Resources programs including deer management. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Minimum requirements: High School Diploma or GED and four (4) years related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in performing Park Ranger duties including enforcement and public outreach.
Basic computer skills plus proficiency in MS applications & GIS mapping.
Experience in security, law enforcement, park management or a related field.
Associate’s Degree in law enforcement, park management or a related field.
Physical Demands and Work Environment Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; sit; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and distance vision.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions (rain, wind, snow, cold, heat, poor air quality, sun, etc.) and wildlife (snakes, bees, ticks, rodents, poisonous plants, etc.). The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Language Skills, Mathematical Skills and Reasoning Ability Language Skills:
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
Reasoning Ability:
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Possession of a valid Maryland Class C Driver\'s License or equivalent issued by state of residence. This license must remain valid as long as the individual is employed in this class.
Requires training and certification in various law enforcement practices and techniques including Oleoresin Capsicum (O.C.) chemical spray exposure.
May be required to be licensed or the ability to obtain a Deer Cooperators License through Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Obtain Maryland Hunter Safety Certification or equivalent within one (1) year of employment.
Completion of required FEMA ICS-100/700 training within six (6) months of employment.
Obtain SAR-Tech III (Search and Rescue) Certification within one (1) year of employment.
Obtain ATV Safety Institute within six (6) months of employment.
Additional trainings and certifications as required.
May also require training and certification in various law enforcement practices and techniques.
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Howard County Government:
Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 85 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) – the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in Maryland. NACo represents county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policymaking.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations.
What you’ll like most about working at Howard County Government:
We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government.
We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will not only be heard, but it will be encouraged!
We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.
As a member of the Howard County Government team, you’ll be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.
Position Summary This is a supervisory Park Ranger position, overseeing the safety and security of the park system. This involves supervision of Park Rangers who conduct routine patrols of County park lands and facilities ensuring compliance with park rules and ordinances. This position supervises and directs security assignments for special events, wildlife management, Emergency Management functions, inventory and maintenance of supplies and equipment, and public outreach and education programs.
Starting Salary / Hiring Range
Starting Salary Hiring Range:
$31.10 - $34.00
$64,688 - $70,720
Class Description Performs supervisory and advanced level operations service work under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes directing the activities of one or more crews of laboring and/or motor equipment operation and repair personnel; driving and operating of heavy motor, construction, and complex mechanical equipment; may direct and participate in the day to day operations of a large size site or sites.
Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Leadership & Supervision:
Works and cooperates with co-workers and supervisors at all levels.
Learns and performs all essential job functions accurately.
Determines staffing assignments depending on program needs and workload.
Develops and manages staff schedules including weekends, evenings, holidays, special events, and daily assignments.
Conducts interviews and recommends hiring decisions.
Oversees evaluations, training, counseling, and disciplinary actions.
Implements orientation and training of new hires in coordination with the Park Ranger Program Manager.
Leads daily or weekly staff meetings, safety briefings, and communication assignments and departmental updates.
Training & Safety
Coordinates training with partner agencies (Howard County Police, Animal Control, Fire and Rescue, Grassroots, etc.).
Oversees training operations for subordinates in all areas of Park Ranger duties, equipment operation, and safety compliance.
Reviews, approves, and ensures completion of job hazard analyses for specific assignments.
Directs and oversees the training of Park Ranger Sharpshooters.
Purchases, issues, and inspects O.C. spray, body armor, uniforms, and specialized safety equipment.
Operations & Administration
Assist the Program Manager with the development of Policies and Procedures related to Park Ranger operations.
Oversees the operational functions of the Park Ranger Section.
Approves and reviews incident reports, timesheets, Department requisitions, Kronos/SAP entries, complaint and inquiry forms, and Ranger program reports (daily, monthly, annual).
Assist with the preparation and management of the annual budget for the Park Ranger program.
Serves on assigned committees.
Make purchases and ensures proper use and maintenance of PDQs and supporting documents.
Approves subordinates’ purchases and expenditures per the operating budget.
Oversees fleet maintenance, mobile data computers, two-way radios, and 800MHz radio inventory.
Maintains compliance with Howard County Police communication protocols.
Public Relations and Community Engagement
Provide guidance on the development and delivery of educational programming, community outreach, and interpretive events.
Oversees the Park Watch volunteer program and ensures proper scheduling and coordination.
Communicates with the public regarding parks issues and responds through the See Click Fix system.
Resolves complex public relations problems.
Enforcement & Resource Protection
Coordinates enforcement actions with Forest Conservation and Open Space Inspectors, including civil citations.
Oversees processing, distribution, and management of incident reports, citations, enforcement database, and other time sensitive documentation.
Coordinates with the Department\'s Deer Management Program in Managed Hunt, Sharpshooting operations and research projects.
Supervise Division resources to ensure natural resource management and protection.
Special Events & Emergency Response
Plans and implements operational strategies for special events, security assignments, traffic and parking management.
Coordinates, monitors, and provides support during emergency situations.
Required to serve as DOC Supervisor when scheduled and maintain all required training.
Identified as essential personnel and must report for duty during emergencies, including DOC staffing.
supervisory Responsibilities This job directly supervises full-time Park Rangers. Responsibilities include: program supervision of regulation enforcement, public outreach, education and assists with Natural Resources programs including deer management. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Minimum requirements: High School Diploma or GED and four (4) years related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in performing Park Ranger duties including enforcement and public outreach.
Basic computer skills plus proficiency in MS applications & GIS mapping.
Experience in security, law enforcement, park management or a related field.
Associate’s Degree in law enforcement, park management or a related field.
Physical Demands and Work Environment Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; sit; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and distance vision.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions (rain, wind, snow, cold, heat, poor air quality, sun, etc.) and wildlife (snakes, bees, ticks, rodents, poisonous plants, etc.). The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Language Skills, Mathematical Skills and Reasoning Ability Language Skills:
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
Reasoning Ability:
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Possession of a valid Maryland Class C Driver\'s License or equivalent issued by state of residence. This license must remain valid as long as the individual is employed in this class.
Requires training and certification in various law enforcement practices and techniques including Oleoresin Capsicum (O.C.) chemical spray exposure.
May be required to be licensed or the ability to obtain a Deer Cooperators License through Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Obtain Maryland Hunter Safety Certification or equivalent within one (1) year of employment.
Completion of required FEMA ICS-100/700 training within six (6) months of employment.
Obtain SAR-Tech III (Search and Rescue) Certification within one (1) year of employment.
Obtain ATV Safety Institute within six (6) months of employment.
Additional trainings and certifications as required.
May also require training and certification in various law enforcement practices and techniques.
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