DCNR Ranger Trainee - Bald Eagle State Park

Do you want to use your passion for the outdoors to protect one of Pennsylvania's most scenic forests while also supporting public safety? Join the dedicated Bald Eagle State Park team as a seasonal DCNR Ranger Trainee for the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources. This role offers the chance to protect natural spaces while connecting with visitors. It is a great fit for someone who enjoys the outdoors and wants to make a difference every day.

Apply today to join a team that values service, safety, and stewardship!

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

This position provides hands‑on training in park safety, visitor service, and resource protection at Bald Eagle State Park. The work includes learning patrol skills, supporting emergency response, assisting with public guidance, and maintaining park facilities. As a seasonal DCNR Ranger Trainee, you will learn how to perform the following duties:

• Patrol Training: Learn to patrol park grounds, trails, and facilities while supporting visitor safety and protecting natural resources
• Visitor Service: Provide information, assist with public questions, and support park office and visitor center operations
• Law Enforcement Basics: Learn proper procedures for enforcing rules, issuing citations, and assisting in investigations
• Emergency Response: Assist in responding to emergencies, support search and rescue efforts, and provide first aid when needed
• Preparedness Tasks: Help maintain emergency equipment, patrol vehicles, and medical supplies for readiness
• Reports and Records: Prepare logs, incident reports, and documentation consistent with park procedures

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 in March 2027.
• Work hours are 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a 30‑minute lunch.
  • Work will be scheduled 5 days/40 hours per week. Work days and shifts will vary and will include holidays, weekends, and evenings.
• 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.

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…