Job Description
Job ID: 38200 - Range Safety Officer
Agency: Game Fish & Parks
Location: Piedmont, SD
Minimum Salary: $18.98 hourly, DOE
Closing Date: 12/11/2026
Seasonal Range Safety Officers (RSOs) at the Pete Lien & Sons Shooting Sports Complex play a key role in ensuring the facility remains safe, clean, and welcoming for the public. RSOs monitor shooting activities, enforce safety rules, guide range users, and may serve as the primary on site authority during assigned shifts. They also support daily operations by operating the customer service desk-selling range passes, registering participants, answering phones, and providing information to visitors.
In addition to safety and customer service responsibilities, RSOs perform routine janitorial and maintenance tasks to keep the 400 acre complex operational and presentable. Their work may include prepping shooting bays, cleaning public areas, assisting with events, maintaining equipment, and performing general facility upkeep. Seasonal staff contribute directly to the positive experience of visitors and are an important part of the team that ensures the range meets high standards of professionalism and safety.
All RSOs must complete required training-including NRA RSO certification, AED/CPR/Stop the Bleed, ROHVA online training, OSHA 30, and automated system operation-along with 16 hours of job shadowing focused on safety procedures, customer interaction, and addressing rule violations. Duties may vary daily and can include additional maintenance or operational tasks as needed.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
Communication
- As a seasonal staff member, clear and respectful communication is a key part of the daily routine - whether receiving direction from supervisors, working alongside fellow team members, or interacting with the public.
- Being able to ask questions, take feedback, and stay professional during busy or challenging situations helps maintain a positive and safe environment at the range.
Teamwork
- Seasonal employees play an important role in supporting the goals of the full-time team.
- Building strong relationships with coworkers, volunteers, and visitors creates a productive and welcoming atmosphere.
- Success at the complex relies on a team-first mindset - being dependable, flexible, and willing to help wherever needed.
Leadership
- While seasonal staff are not in leadership roles by title, they are expected to lead by example through reliability, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude.
- Taking initiative, being open to learning, and contributing ideas when appropriate all support a healthy team dynamic and help the complex run smoothly.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :
- While not directly involved in fiscal planning or budgeting, understanding of how resources are allocated to maintain and improve the range, supporting the department's overall mission.
- Assist with recruiting and supporting volunteers, helping to welcome and onboard new team members who contribute to daily operations and events.
- May have opportunities to observe or participate in presentations and briefings given to GFP staff, partners, or community groups, helping them understand how information about the range is shared and promoted.
- Using computer tools such as GFP license programs and Outlook is part of learning how communication and scheduling support the facility's smooth operation.
- May support educational programming efforts, including helping with curriculum materials and assisting during public outreach activities that promote safe and responsible shooting practices.
- Learn about important conservation principles such as the Pittman-Robertson Act of 1937 and the North American Model of Wildlife Management, which guide sustainable wildlife and habitat management in South Dakota and beyond.
- Contribute to the creation and maintenance of innovative resource materials is part of supporting educational and outreach efforts.
- Under supervision, seasonal staff may help assign and coordinate tasks with other seasonal or volunteer team members, assisting full-time staff in monitoring work quality and safety standards.
- Assist in coordinating and supporting special events that showcase shooting sports and engage the community.
- Keeping the range clean, organized, and up to GFP's standards is a core responsibility, helping ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
- Build strong working relationships with coworkers, volunteers, consultants, and other agencies, gaining valuable teamwork and communication experience.
- Support maintenance and improvements by working alongside contractors during facility repairs or upgrades helps seasonal staff gain insight into the operational side of managing a public range
Licenses and Certifications:
Drivers license; May require CPR and/ or other medical response training.
**Successful candidate(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment.
Working Conditions or other specific requirements (physical, environmental, or other position requirements):
These positions will be in an outdoor setting on a shooting complex. Schedule will be variable Mon-Sun depending on applicants' availability. Preferred availability of Thursday - Sunday.
Please note this is a temporary or seasonal, non-benefited position, exempt from civil service.
Applicants must apply online: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=58J
You must apply online. Emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
*Seasonal positions can be filled prior to the closing date.*
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