Lead Ranger

About Shelby Farms Park Conservancy

Shelby Farms Park Conservancy (SFPC) is the nonprofit that manages and cares for Shelby Farms Park and Shelby Farms Greenline in Memphis, TN. SFPC is responsible for daily management, fundraising to meet operational budget needs, setting the vision for the Parks future, and stewarding its natural resources. SFPC team members are committed to our vision of creating a celebrated 21st-century park that defines and shapes a great city and that provides inclusive, equitable, and free access for every resident of the Memphis area.

About Shelby Farms Park

At 4,500 acres, Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It features miles of trails, lakes and ponds, a buffalo herd, the Woodland Discovery Playground, the FedEx Event Center, a treetop adventure course, a sprayground, and an outdoor stage. It is a treasured asset for Memphis, offering inclusive and free access to all.
 

Position Summary

Lead Rangers take ownership of the daily condition of their primary and secondary zones, performing and directing maintenance, inspections, and repairs. They also coordinate vendor contracts, document work in MaintainX (MX), and collaborate across departments to support operational priorities.This position is ideal for individuals who demonstrate strong initiative, communication skills, and a leadership mindset, and who are ready to take on greater responsibility for outcomes, quality, and coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain assigned zone(s) in clean, safe, and visitor-ready condition.
• Perform routine operational tasks such as inspections, litter removal, minor repairs, pressure washing, and signage upkeep.
• Identify issues proactively and ensure timely resolution through direct action, team coordination, or vendor support.
• Log inspections, maintenance, and repairs in MaintainX (MX) within 24 hours.
• Ensure that any events and/or daily activities within the zone are supported and executed smoothly.

• Coordinate and oversee contractors performing maintenance, cleaning, or aesthetic improvement projects.
• Schedule and communicate contractor work to the Park Operations Manager and relevant teams.
• Inspect vendor work for completeness and quality; document results and close out related work orders in MX.
• Track recurring issues, propose long-term solutions, and support contract management for assigned services.

Maintenance & Technical Skills

• Basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and irrigation knowledge
• Ability to troubleshoot operational systems and infrastructure
• Identify preventative maintenance needs and communicate priorities to management.

• Provide field leadership, guidance, and mentorship to Rangers I and II.
• Lead or co-lead zone-based projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality standards.
• Foster a positive, professional, and solution-oriented team culture aligned with the Parklife Field Guide.
• Support training, toolbox talks, and onboarding of new staff.

• Review and ensure accurate, timely records of inspections, vendor activity, and work completion in MX.
• Share updates on zone conditions, repairs, and projects with supervisors and peers as requested.
• Contribute to cross-department meetings and event briefings as needed.

• Support and, as assigned, lead the work of the conservation team on habitat management, land stewardship, and ecological projects.
• Coordinate care, monitoring, and daily operational needs related to the park’s bison herd in collaboration with veterinarians.
• Work cross-functionally with Park Operations and other departments to advance conservation initiatives, restoration projects, and best practices.
• Assist with planning, execution, and documentation of conservation projects, including seasonal or grant-funded efforts.
• Serve as a field-level ambassador for conservation priorities, helping ensure daily operations align with the Conservancy’s stewardship goals.

Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 3–5 years of park operations, ranger, or facilities experience
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and make sound decisions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and follow-through skills.
• Excellent communication and professionalism across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to coordinate and inspect vendor work and manage small projects.
• Attention to detail and high standards for quality and presentation.
• Willingness to effectively use MaintainX (MX) or similar work order/asset management platforms and other workplace communication tools like Google Suites, Trello, etc.
• Strong problem-solving, time management, and teamwork skills.

Schedule & Work Environment

• Rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Outdoor work in all weather conditions
• Physical demands include walking, standing, lifting, and operating equipment.

Benefits

SFPC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

•Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

•401(k) plan with organizational match

•Paid time off, personal days, and holidays

This job description outlines typical duties and responsibilities and does not limit management’s ability to assign or reassign responsibilities as needed.

Shelby Farms Park Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age (40+), disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under applicable law.