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

THE POSITION

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.

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


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position supports public safety, visitor assistance, and conservation work throughout Kettle Creek State Park Complex. As a DCNR Ranger Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

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

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. There is not an option to buy into health care 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.
• Schedule varies, will work 40 hours per week to include weekends and holidays as needed
• 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:

• 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 p