Limited Commissioned Ranger​/Lead Inspector – Trinidad Port of Entry

Job Details

Temporary position (9 months or less) – $19.00 per hour.

EMPLOYMENT STARTS 03/08/2026 THROUGH 10/31/2026.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is dedicated to preserving wildlife resources, providing a quality state park system, and offering sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities.

• Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations at Trinidad Port of Entry.
• Act as site lead boat inspector: provide on‑the‑job training to inspection staff, create schedules, ensure all shifts are covered, verify accurate time‑keeping records for payroll, and recommend hiring/firing of employees to the Invasive Species Specialist.
• Conduct quality‑control assessments of inspection station staff on a monthly basis, ensure accurate data entry, maintain inventory of required supplies, perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on power washer/decontamination units, and provide public outreach on aquatic invasive species.
• Enforce Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules and regulations and issue citations for violations.
• Resolve visitor complaints and conflicts.
• Complete required reports and may be required to appear in court.
• Answer questions regarding aquatic invasive species.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Must have a current and valid driver’s license required for operating a state vehicle and an acceptable driving record (will be verified as part of a comprehensive background check).
• Immediate disqualification for applicants who have used marijuana within the past 12 months or any illegal drugs within the past 36 months.
• Disqualification for applicants with a felony conviction, any domestic violence charge, or any misdemeanors that prohibit POST certification for Colorado Peace Officer standards.
• Must be available to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during inclement weather.
• Position requires outdoor physical work that may involve climbing in and out of vessels or vehicles, and/or under trailers.
• The work‑site will provide some uniform items; the employee may need to purchase limited items at their own expense.
• Must attend and successfully complete required Colorado State Park training (may include full exposure to OC spray). 
• Must have or be able to attain valid current First Aid and CPR certifications.
• Must be able to work with limited supervision and work well within a team.
• Must possess strong interpersonal communication skills to deliver excellent customer service.
• Basic computer skills required (MS Office Suite, Google App Suite).
• Preference may be given to applicants with or working toward a Natural Resources degree or similar education.

• Perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs, including climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
• Ability to perceive color differences and to hear verbal and radio communications.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Any person with a disability is eligible for a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, contact dnr_ at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required. Additional information, including medical documentation, may be requested to evaluate the request.

The Department of Natural Resources participates in E‑Verify in accordance with the program’s Right to Work for all newly‑hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration to verify identity and employment eligibility. Employees must complete section 1 of the I‑9 form upon acceptance of a job offer letter, and submit original documents to verify eligibility to work in the U.S. within the specified timeframe.