DCNR Ranger Trainee - Presque Isle State Park

THE POSITION

Step into the role of DCNR Ranger Trainee with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources at Presque Isle State Park. This opportunity allows you to learn vital skills in public service, outdoor safety, and conservation while working in a unique and active park environment. You will take part in training that prepares you for meaningful work that supports visitors and protects natural resources.

Join a team that values learning, growth, and dedication to Pennsylvania’s parks.

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

This role focuses on developing essential skills in public service, park safety, conservation principles, and law enforcement through structured training and field assignments. It supports daily park operations and prepares you for full DCNR Ranger responsibilities. As a DCNR Ranger Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Training Participation:
  Attend classroom and physical instruction to learn conservation practices, customer service, environmental education, and basic law enforcement
• Park Patrol:
  Assist in patrolling park grounds by vehicle, bicycle, ATV, or boat to check visitor safety and resource conditions
• Public Relations:
  Present a professional image, provide information to visitors, and staff offices or visitor centers as assigned
• Law Enforcement Support:
  Accompany supervisors and Rangers on patrol and assist in preparing reports and maintaining logs
• Emergency Assistance:
  Help respond to accidents, injuries, and other urgent situations and provide first aid consistent with certifications
• Reports And Inspections:
  Assist with daily and monthly logs that document conditions of facilities, equipment, safety issues, and incidents

• 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 February 2026 until October 2026 at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment February 2027.
• Days and shifts will vary; position requires a 40-hour workweek, including holidays and weekends.
• 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.

• 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.

• You m ust 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.

• This position requires employees to successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of the start of employment.  to learn more about these requirements.
• You must meet the PA residency requirement .…