DCNR Ranger - Moshannon State Forest, Clearfield

Position Overview

If you are enthusiastic about the beauty of nature, enjoy connecting with people, and wish to make a significant difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a Ranger at Moshannon State Forest within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with the public while upholding vital State Forest regulations, safeguarding our natural environment, and enhancing your skills in a fulfilling field.

Salary: $49,135.00 – $77,322.00 annually

Clearfield County, PA

Civil Service Permanent Full‑time

• Forest Patrols: Patrol forest areas by vehicle, ATV, bicycle, or foot to monitor safety, compliance, and resource protection.
• Public Assistance: Provide information, answer questions, and support visitor needs in a professional manner.
• Law Enforcement: Enforce state laws and regulations, investigate complaints, and issue warnings or citations as appropriate.
• Emergency Response: Administer first aid, assist in search and rescue efforts, and coordinate with outside agencies when needed.
• Facility Oversight: Inspect buildings, signs, and equipment and report hazards or maintenance needs.
• Report Preparation: Complete logs, incident reports, and documentation related to patrol activities and public interactions.

• Full‑time employment; 5 days/40 hours per week with a 30‑minute lunch.
• Work days and shifts will vary and include holidays, weekends, and evenings.
• Travel and overtime may be required for emergencies, trainings, and events.
• Telework: not available.
• Salary may be non‑negotiable in some cases.

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Successful completion of the DCNR Ranger Trainee program, or
• Completion of a department‑approved law‑enforcement training program and 15 college credits in a related field, or
• One year of experience as a forest or park ranger with authority to exercise the powers of arrest.

Special Requirements:

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Must possess a valid motor‑vehicle license.
• Must obtain and maintain commission as a State Park or State Forest Officer throughout employment.
• 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 probation.
• Must pass psychological testing (MMPI). Failure may lead to removal.
• Must pass Pennsylvania State Police and FBI criminal background checks; convictions with potential prison sentence >1 year may lead to removal.

Other Requirements:

• Must successfully pass a physical fitness test within six months of employment start. Learn more.
• PA residency requirement is waived for this title.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• Child Protective Services Law provisions require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports, including State Police clearance, Child Abuse clearance, and FBI fingerprints.
• Acts of 153 of 2014 require Child Abuse, Criminal, and Federal Criminal History checks around hiring and every five years thereafter.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed.
• Information supporting eligibility must be provided on the application.
• Attached transcripts (official or unofficial) are required if claiming education on the supplemental application questions.
• All application must be submitted by the closing date; late applications will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above requirements may eliminate you from consideration.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience; use of AI tools is permitted only for preparation.

Qualified veterans receive employment preference under Pennsylvania law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an equal‑employment‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by federal or state law.