Leading the Way: Supervisory Park Ranger at Cabrillo National Monument
Are you an experienced law enforcement professional looking to lead a team in one of the most beautiful settings in the United States? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently hiring a Supervisory Park Ranger (Protection) for the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, California. This role is a unique blend of high-level management, law enforcement oversight, and the preservation of one of the nation's most precious historical and natural resources.
Job Responsibilities
As a first-line supervisor, you will be at the heart of the Monument's operations. Your primary duties will include:
- Supervision: Directing law enforcement officers, fee collectors, and permit personnel.
- Emergency Operations: Leading and coordinating responses for EMS, search and rescue, and other critical incidents.
- Resource Protection: Implementing and managing patrol programs to ensure the integrity of the park's natural and historical assets.
- Collaboration: Acting as the liaison between the National Park Service and local San Diego law enforcement and emergency response partners.
- Policy and Safety: Ensuring all staff are properly trained, safety protocols are strictly followed, and operational readiness is maintained at all times.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must demonstrate both technical expertise and physical capability. Key requirements include:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 21 years of age or older |
| Fitness | Ability to pass the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB) |
| Commission | Current or prior Type 1 Law Enforcement Commission |
| Background | Must undergo and pass a federal background investigation |
| Training | Ongoing firearm certification and law enforcement authority |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $87,667 to $113,973 per year. In addition to base pay, you will have access to the comprehensive federal benefits package, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) special provisions for law enforcement, health insurance, and a uniform allowance.
If you have the drive to lead and a passion for protecting our nation's treasures, this role at Cabrillo National Monument is an exceptional opportunity. Ensure your application is thorough, your resume is compliant with the two-page requirement, and all supporting documentation is submitted by the closing date to be considered for this vital position.
Why This Supervisory Park Ranger (P) Job Matters
Protect the legacy of Cabrillo National Monument and serve the public in a leadership role as a Supervisory Park Ranger in beautiful San Diego.
Supervisory Park Ranger (P) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced law enforcement professional to serve as a Supervisory Park Ranger (Protection) at Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, California. In this pivotal role, you will oversee a dynamic team responsible for the safety of over one million annual visitors, the protection of sensitive natural and cultural resources, and the management of emergency operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead law enforcement, fee, and permit staff while collaborating with local emergency agencies along the stunning Point Loma peninsula.
Requirements for Supervisory Park Ranger (P)
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Possess or have held a valid Type 1 National Park Service Law Enforcement Commission (or equivalent) within the last three years.
- Must pass a comprehensive pre-employment physical examination and the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB).
- Must maintain physical fitness standards and carry a valid driver's license throughout employment.
- Successfully pass pre-employment and random drug testing.
- Meet Time-in-Grade requirements for Federal applicants.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and undergo a thorough background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Park Ranger (P)
- Experience supervising law enforcement, EMS, or resource protection personnel.
- Demonstrated expertise in criminal investigations and collaborating with partner law enforcement agencies.
- Advanced education (Master's or Ph.D.) in fields such as natural resource management, law enforcement, or public administration.
- Proven track record in emergency incident management and search and rescue operations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Special retirement provisions under 5 U.S.C. 8412(d) (FERS) for secondary law enforcement positions.
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
- ✓Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Park Ranger (P) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Park Ranger (P) Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly 2 pages or less, using 10-point font or larger and 0.5-inch margins.
- Ensure your resume lists all jobs, duties, and specific hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents: performance appraisals, awards, transcripts, and relevant SF-50s.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to complete the online assessment and questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation as PDF or accepted formats before the closing date.
- Submit your application and monitor the status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check that your resume explicitly states hours per week for every position to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Highlight your leadership experience, specifically in emergency response and criminal law, within the application narrative.
- Ensure your most recent performance appraisal is attached or provide a formal statement if one is unavailable.
- Review the specific PEB fitness requirements to ensure you are prepared for the testing components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to current federal employees only?
The position is open to various hiring paths including internal federal employees, career transition candidates, and land management employees. Please verify your eligibility under the 'Who May Apply' section.
What is the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB)?
The PEB is a five-part physical fitness test including an agility run, bench press, 1.5-mile run, sit and reach, and body composition analysis. You must pass key components at the 25th percentile or higher.
Can I use education to qualify for this GS-11 role?
Yes, you may qualify with three years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a related field, or a combination of specialized experience and education.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the National Park Service are committed to protecting the natural resources and cultural heritage of our country. At Cabrillo National Monument, located on the Point Loma peninsula, the NPS works to honor the legacy of explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo while managing a 160-acre site that sees roughly one million visitors per year. As a Supervisory Park Ranger, you will represent the agency's mission to protect these values for future generations.