Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Patrols designated parks, trailways, and facilities to deter or discover crime; provides consistent, high visibility on park properties to deter/prevent vandalism, encampment, graffiti, and other illegal activity.
• Observes and enforces park rules and regulations regarding encampments, animal complaints, parking, etc.
• Monitors activities and identifies inappropriate, unsafe, criminal, or other undesirable behaviors; resolves issues as appropriate.
• Identifies location of encampments; makes initial contact with encampment occupants; supervises and directs actions necessary to remove encampments in accordance with laws and regulations.
• Responds to reports of possible crime and takes actions to secure the scene; interviews victims and witnesses, gathers evidence, investigates suspects, and makes any necessary arrests; completes incident and arrest reports; testifies in court, as necessary.
• Issues infractions or citations to violators of City ordinances; serves warrants of arrest; arrests persons on misdemeanor charges; handcuffs and searches arrested persons.
• Conducts routine inspections of playgrounds and equipment, restrooms, lights, signs, and other park items; identifies any damage or unsafe conditions and submits appropriate work orders for repair/replacement.
• Coordinates and works closely with volunteer organizations on various projects including trail maintenance, invasive species removal, park maintenance, educational tours, etc.
• Develops programs to ensure public safety in parks, including education, interpretation, and enforcement.
• Assists other law enforcement agencies and City departments; assists in City emergency management duties as assigned; attends training sessions.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

High school diploma or GED AND 60 semester or 90 quarter hours of college credit AND must be 21 years of age and a US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.

Knowledge of:

• Park buildings and grounds and rules and regulations.
• Methods, equipment, and materials used in park ranger duties.
• Safety awareness and de-escalation.
• CPR and First Aid basics.
• Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• General office policies, procedures, and equipment.
• Investigative techniques and procedures.
• Strategies and methods to observe and remember details.

• Dealing tactfully and effectively with trespassers and violators of City ordinances and park rules.
• Writing clear incident reports and organizing details logically.
• Reading, understanding, and interpreting laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.
• Coping with situations firmly, tactfully, and with respect for the individual’s rights.
• Developing skills in firearm safety and the use and care of a duty firearm.
• Presenting publicly on a variety of educational safety topics.
• Directing traffic for special events or at the scene of a collision.
• Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public.
• Preparing clear and concise communications, reports, and technical documents.
• Analyzing complex issues and implementing appropriate responses.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Graduate of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) or an equivalent Parks Law Enforcement Academy (PRLEA) that is recognized by the Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission as a general authority Washington Peace Officer with the full authority of a general authority peace officer commissioned to enforce local laws of the state of Washington generally as set forth in RCW 10.92.020(4). This includes successful completion of the Equivalency training to receive state certification.
• Must be able to successfully pass the following:
  1. Oral Civil Service Examination
  2. Background Investigation
  3. Polygraph Investigation
  4. Psychological Examination
  5. Medical Examination

BENEFITS:

• Medical dental and Vision Insurances
• Life Insurance policy
• Employee Assistance Program
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan (PERS)
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick leave
• Gym Membership reimbursement
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application. Please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa to apply online. Applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

For additional information, or a complete job description, please click on https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa/classspecs

The City of Mount Vernon provides and enforces a drug-free workplace and maintains a smoke free work environment.
The City of Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.