DCNR Ranger Trainee (Seasonal) - Kettle Creek State Park Complex

About the role

Start a rewarding career path as a DCNR Ranger Trainee with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This position gives you the chance to grow your abilities in public service, safety, and conservation. You will gain real experience in patrolling park grounds, helping visitors, and supporting vital operations. Choose a role that develops your skills while contributing to the protection of Pennsylvania’s natural resources.

Duties

• Patrol park property by vehicle, on foot, or by boat to support visitor safety and confirm compliance with rules and laws
• Provide helpful information to visitors and assist with permits, fees, and daily office tasks
• Learn proper procedures for enforcing laws, investigating incidents, completing reports, and cooperating with other agencies
• Assist in emergencies by providing first aid, supporting rescues, and directing traffic
• Check buildings, signs, and equipment to ensure proper condition and safety
• Complete daily logs, reports, and documentation using computer programs and established procedures

Minimum qualifications

• 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

• Must be at least 21 years of age at time of employment
• Possession of an active motor vehicle license
• Successfully complete a structured law enforcement training program to obtain authority in exercising the powers of arrest during the trainee period
• 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
• Pass psychological testing (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)). Failure to pass this test is a basis for removal from the position
• 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
• Successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of the start of employment
• Meet the PA residency requirement
• Be able to perform essential job functions