DCNR Ranger Trainee - Lyman Run State Park Complex (Seasonal)

THE POSITION

Start your path toward becoming a DCNR Ranger by joining the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources as a DCNR Ranger Trainee. This position provides structured training and real-world experience in public contact, safety, and resource protection. You will develop the knowledge needed to support park operations and assist visitors. You will report to Lyman Run State Park, a satellite park of the Hills Creek State Park Complex. Take the first step into a rewarding career that helps safeguard Pennsylvania's natural resources.



Watch this video to see how DCNR Rangers make Pennsylvania a better place to work, live and play!


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position focuses on developing the skills needed to support visitor safety, public service, and basic law enforcement within the state park complex. The work includes guided training, park patrols, and learning essential procedures for assisting visitors and protecting resources. As a DCNR Ranger Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Park Patrols: Observe park property to support visitor safety, provide assistance, and learn to inspect facilities
• Public Interaction: Assist visitors, provide information, and practice professional communication in park settings
• Law Training: Learn to enforce rules and regulations, respond to incidents, and prepare basic reports
• Emergency Response: Take part in training related to first aid, CPR, search efforts, and safe incident response
• Record Keeping: Practice completing logs, reports, and forms while using computer programs and park systems

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• This is a seasonal, full-time position with no healthcare benefits. The season runs from approximately March 2026 until November 2026 at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment March 2027.
• Will work 40 hours per week, with varying days and shifts; holidays and weekends are required
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

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.

Other Requirements:

• This position requires employees to successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of the start of employment. Click here to learn more about these requirements.
  
• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation.
• This position falls under the provisions of