SUMMER or LOCAL (Naples Area) Volunteer- Fleet Assistant

In this position the volunteer would work for the Visitor Resources Protection (VRP) Division whose primary duties are Law Enforcement and Search & Rescue. The VRP division heavily relies on the operational readiness of their equipment to quickly respond to emergencies and conduct law enforcement operations. The division has a variety of street equipped patrol vehicles as well as off road vehicles suited for the environment in Big Cypress National Preserve. This includes ATVs, UTVs, Boats, Airboats, and Swamp Buggies. We are looking for assistance in maintaining our fleet as such, the volunteers' duties would largely consist of starting equipment, inspecting equipment for mechanical issues, fueling equipment, cleaning equipment, and towing equipment to be worked on. This may include but is not limited to dropping off decommissioned vehicles for turn in and or taking new vehicles to the shop to be outfitted with a police package. This could also mean removing parts from vehicles or boats and picking up parts from vendors in town. This person would have to be flexible in meeting appointment times when dropping off equipment and in determining the best timing to take certain equipment in for repairs as to not diminish response capabilities. This person would be an integral part of our team and have a direct line of communication to supervision. There would be a formal training period regardless of experience as well as well continual on the job training; however, all expectations and objectives would be an ongoing dialogue among all team members. 

The follow are skills that would set a volunteer apart:

-Experience and ability to safely drive large trucks pulling trailers in congested areas. 

-Experience loading and trailering boats. 

-Experience operating and troubleshooting outboard engines. 

-Experience rigging trailers. Able to inspect trailers, annotate safety concerns, and relay information to supervision. 

-Experience changing tires, jumping vehicle batteries, and troubleshooting mechanical issues. 

-Experience working on and operating Honda ATVs & Can-Am UTVs. 

-Experience in overland self-recovery. Able to utilize a wench / snatch block and tow lines to safely remove vehicles from austere environments. 

-Proficient at utilizing a push to talk radio.

-Proficient at navigating with paper maps and handheld GPS in remote areas. 

-Ability to drive a manual transmission.

-Can safely utilize hand tools to make minor repairs to equipment. 

-Is organized, can maintain important paperwork, and successfully relay information to 3^rd parties regarding required maintenance. 

-Willing to learn, share ideas, and is adaptable.

Though an RV pad may be available for this position, this position would be ideal for a local who wants to get involved at Big Cypress. The time requirement for someone not needing an RV pad is ~4 hours/week or as needed by park staff.