Job Description

Senior Watershed Ranger – $37–$41/hr | Longmont, CO (Parks, Water & Natural Resources)

The City of Longmont is hiring a Senior Watershed Ranger to lead operations at critical water resource facilities, including Button Rock Preserve. This role offers $37.23–$41.37/hour, full benefits, and the opportunity to manage reservoirs, natural resources, and public recreation programs.

This is a unique leadership position combining water operations, natural resource management, public safety, and outdoor recreation oversight . The ideal candidate is experienced, hands-on, and passionate about protecting natural resources while supporting public access.

Compensation

Hourly Pay: $37.23 – $41.37/hour

Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week)

Work Schedule: Variable, including weekends and holidays

Why Join Longmont?

Unique Mission-Driven Role

• Lead operations at Button Rock Preserve and City reservoir properties
• Play a key role in water supply management and dam safety
• Balance resource protection with public recreation access

Leadership Opportunity

• Supervise, hire, and train full-time, seasonal, and temporary rangers 
• Serve as on-site manager for major watershed facilities 

Diverse Work Environment

• Combine fieldwork, operations, and program development 
• Work across reservoirs, trails, forests, and public lands 

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan + 401(a) 
• Paid vacation (starting at hire), sick leave, and holidays 
• Parental and caregiver leave 
• Tuition assistance 
• Life insurance and long-term disability 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Key Responsibilities

Water & Reservoir Operations

• Manage water storage, flows, and reservoir levels 
• Conduct dam safety inspections and maintain compliance with State requirements 
• Coordinate water releases with State Water Commissioner 
• Maintain documentation and regulatory reporting 

Natural Resource & Land Management

• Oversee forest stewardship, vegetation management, and ecosystem health 
• Coordinate with Ecosystem Management on conservation and restoration projects 
• Support grant applications and project reporting 

Recreation & Public Use

• Develop and manage recreational programs (hiking, fishing, climbing, education) 
• Design and maintain trail systems 
• Manage visitor use and ensure safe public access 

Enforcement & Public Safety

• Enforce City rules and regulations on watershed properties 
• Conduct patrols by foot, vehicle, and boat 
• Respond to emergencies, including search and rescue situations 

Leadership & Administration

• Supervise ranger staff and oversee training and development 
• Manage budgets, capital improvement projects, and facility maintenance 
• Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies 
• Present to City Council, boards, and community groups 

Minimum Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in watershed management, natural resources, forestry, ecology, wildlife biology, or related field 
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in natural resource management or reservoir/water operations 

Preferred:

• Supervisory experience 

Additional Requirements & Certifications

• Knowledge of Colorado water law and reservoir operations
• Experience with natural resource management, recreation programs, and land stewardship 
• Understanding of basic law enforcement practices and regulations 
• CPR and First Aid certification (wildland first aid preferred) 
• Wildland Firefighter Type II (or ability to obtain within one year) 
• Incident Command (IS-100 and IS-700 within one year) 
• Knowledge of search and rescue procedures 
• Experience with construction, maintenance, and trade skills (carpentry, plumbing, etc.) 

Work Environment

• Primarily outdoor work in all weather conditions 
• Physically demanding role (lifting up to 50 lbs, uneven terrain, emergency response) 
• Use of boats, vehicles, tools, and specialized equipment 
• Combination of fieldwork and administrative responsibilities 

Hiring Process

Candidates must complete:
YOU MUST APPLY @ in order to be considered! 

• Application review 
• Interview process 
• Physical abilities testing 
• Background investigation and criminal history check 
• Drug screening 
• Unescorted security clearance 

Apply Today

Submit your application at:

 
YOU MUST APPLY @ in order to be considered! 

For more information, call:

 303-651-8609
Or email Ryan @ ryan.douglas@longmontcolorado.gov

About the Role

The Senior Watershed Ranger plays a critical role in protecting Longmont’s water supply while managing public access to some of the region’s most valuable natural resources. This position blends leadership, environmental stewardship, and operational responsibility in a dynamic outdoor setting.

The City of Longmont is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

YOU MUST APPLY @ in order to be considered! 

Mission StatementsFire: "The mission of Longmont Fire Services is to serve our community by protecting life, property, and the environment through preparation, prevention and response."Police:Our commitment is to work in partnership with our residents in creating and preserving exceptional public safety for those who live in, work in, or visit our community. This commitment is reflected in our mission statement:"To protect and to serve with integrity and professionalism in partnership with the people of Longmont."

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