DCNR Ranger Trainee; Seasonal - Maurice K Goddard State Park

Maurice K Goddard State Park, part of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is seeking a seasonal Ranger Trainee to support park visitor safety, resource protection, and public contact. The trainee will learn patrol work, emergency response, law enforcement tasks, and assist visitors while gaining experience in a natural environment.

• Park Patrol: Monitor park property by vehicle, boat, bicycle, ATV, and foot to ensure visitor safety and compliance with park rules.
• Law Enforcement: Issue warnings, citations, and arrests when necessary while enforcing criminal, vehicle, and park codes.
• Emergency Response: Provide first aid, assist in search and rescue efforts, and take action during urgent situations.
• Public Assistance: Answer visitor questions, share park information, and support public programs and presentations.
• Investigation Work: Investigate complaints, accidents, and suspected violations and prepare detailed reports.
• Facility Oversight: Inspect park buildings, boundaries, and trails to ensure safety, security, and proper maintenance.

• Seasonal, full‑time position with no healthcare benefits. Works from March to November each year; placed on unpaid leave thereafter and automatically returned to employment in March of the following year.
• Scheduled 5 days/40 hours per week, including a 30‑minute lunch. Shifts vary and include holidays, weekends, and evenings.
• Telework is not available.

• Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
  • Six months of experience providing visitor services in a public park, forest, recreation area, or a privately‑owned outdoor education center;
  • Completion of 15 college credits in natural or environmental sciences or a closely related field; or equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Special Requirements:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age at time of employment.
  • Must possess a valid motor vehicle license.
  • Must complete a structured law enforcement training program to obtain authority for arrest during the trainee period.
  • 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.
  • Must pass psychological testing (MMPI). Failure to pass is grounds for removal.
  • Must pass Pennsylvania State Police and FBI criminal background checks. A record of serious criminal offense may be grounds for removal.
• Other Requirements:
  • Must successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of employment.
  • Must meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
  • Must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Must pass background investigation.
• This position is governed by the Child Protective Services Law, which requires satisfactory criminal history reports including PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI fingerprint clearance.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.