DCNR Ranger Trainee (Seasonal) - Beltzville State Park

About the role

This position provides structured training in park operations, visitor service, conservation education, and basic law enforcement functions. It supports park safety and daily operations while preparing you for full ranger responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Training Program: Participate in classroom instruction and field training to learn ranger duties
• Visitor Support: Assist park visitors by providing information and helping with routine needs
• Patrol Activities: Accompany rangers on patrols and observe building and grounds inspections
• Emergency Response: Learn and practice basic first aid, CPR and search and rescue procedures
• Law Enforcement: Train in complaint handling, incident reporting and radio communication techniques
• Equipment Use: Operate park vehicles and equipment as directed during supervised assignments

Qualifications

• Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: Completion of 15 college credits in natural or environmental sciences, natural resource management, park management, parks or outdoor recreation, forestry, environmental education, ecology, wildlife management, or in a closely related field; or Six months of experience providing visitor services in a public park, forest, recreation area, or a privately-owned and operated nature or outdoor education center; or An equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Special Requirements: You must be at least 21 years of age at time of employment. All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license. All employees must successfully complete a structured law enforcement training program to obtain authority in exercising the powers of arrest during the trainee period. All employees must obtain valid certification in standard first aid and adult, child, and infant CPR approved by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or equivalent during the trainee period. All employees must pass psychological testing (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)). Failure to pass this test is a basis for removal from the position. All employees must pass Pennsylvania State Police and FBI Criminal Background Checks. A record of conviction of a criminal offense for which more than one year in prison can be imposed as punishment is a basis for removal from the position. All employees must successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of the start of employment.
• Legal Requirements: You must pass a background investigation. This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law. Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance. In accordance with Act 153 of 2014 this position is required to complete Child Abuse, Criminal and Federal Criminal History Checks around the time of hire and thereafter every 5 years.