TEMPORARY Limited Commissioned Ranger – Eldorado Canyon State Park

Overview

THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) – PAY starting at $20.00-$22.00 PER HOUR. EMPLOYMENT STARTS May 2026 THROUGH Fall 2026. To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters). This announcement will remain open until FILLED. You are encouraged to apply early.

The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW). Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources.

This is an unarmed law enforcement position (Title 33 Commission). Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are not limited to:

• Issuing citations for violations
• Conducting patrols of park areas by vehicle, OHV, boat, bicycle, or foot
• Contacting visitors in the park to explain rules and regulations, provide information about the park, and answer questions
• Checking boats for Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) and using the proper decontamination tools after training
• Assisting in all areas of daily park operations, which may include:
  • Revenue/fee collection, verification, basic accounting, and deposits
  • General park or facility maintenance (restrooms, vault toilets, campsites, picnic areas, trails, etc.)
  • Visitor services operations which may involve education and interpretive programs
• Lake, river, and backcountry recreation parks may have additional, separate duties
• Other duties as assigned

This position is up to 40 hours per week and up to nine months in duration. School schedules MAY be accommodated.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Must have a current and valid driver's license for operating a state vehicle and an acceptable driving record (to be verified as part of the background check)
• Federal law prohibits illegal drugs. If you have used marijuana within the past 12 months and/or any illegal drugs within the past 36 months, you will be disqualified
• Felony or domestic violence convictions and/or misdemeanors that prohibit POST certification may disqualify you; successful completion of a comprehensive background check is required
• Availability to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays; may involve inclement weather
• Outdoor physical work; may require climbing in/out of vessels/vehicles and getting wet
• Uniform items may be provided; some items may need to be purchased
• Must attend and successfully complete required Colorado State Park training (may include OC spray exposure)
• Must have or be able to obtain valid First Aid and CPR certifications
• Ability to work with limited supervision and within a team
• Strong interpersonal communication skills for excellent customer service
• Basic computer skills (MS Office, Google Apps)
• Preference for applicants with or working towards a Natural Resources degree or similar
• Previous experience handling money and interacting with the public is preferred
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly
• Subject to background checks
• Provisions regarding state fleet and driving standards apply to employees driving state-owned vehicles

As part of compliance with the New Fleet Vehicle Policy, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) will be reviewed for workers who have an assigned state fleet vehicle, are required to operate a vehicle as part of the position, or utilize a state fleet vehicle as a pool vehicle.

• Physical activities requiring use of arms and legs; ability to climb, lift, balance, walk, stoop, and…