DCNR Ranger Trainee (Seasonal) - Ricketts Glen State Park

If you are enthusiastic about nature, enjoy connecting with people, and wish to make a significant difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a part of the team at Ricketts Glen State Park, which operates under the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with visitors while upholding vital State Park rules and regulations, playing a crucial role in the protection of our natural environment. Not only will you find personal satisfaction in serving the community, but you will also have access to various professional development opportunities that can enhance your career trajectory. Seize this chance to make a positive impact on both the ecosystem and the public, all while honing your skills and gaining valuable experience in a fulfilling and dynamic field!

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

The role involves actively patrolling the park's grounds and perimeters to facilitate public interaction, ensure the safety of visitors, and uphold compliance with park regulations as well as the Commonwealth's Criminal and Vehicle Codes. This position may require working on weekends and holidays.

Patrol duties include operating a motor vehicle, ATV, or boat to monitor the park area effectively. The primary focus is on safeguarding visitors and protecting natural resources. Rangers are responsible for assisting visitors in need, inspecting buildings and facilities for security and safety, and ensuring that informational materials such as posters and signs are up-to-date and in good condition. Additionally, maintaining assigned equipment and keeping work areas clean and organized is essential.

In terms of public relations, the Park Ranger is expected to embody a professional image through their uniform, communication skills, and knowledge of the park's environment, history, and regulations. They provide valuable information and assistance to park visitors, manage park offices and visitor centers, and handle visitor registrations using the Park Reservation System.

Law enforcement responsibilities include enforcing legal provisions relevant to State Parks, making arrests, and issuing citations in accordance with established guidelines. Rangers investigate complaints, accidents, and crimes, determining appropriate actions and preparing incident reports. They collaborate with local and state police as well as Fish and Game Commissions, prosecuting cases and presenting evidence in court. Additionally, they maintain logs for property, lost and found items, attendance, and assist with water-testing records, while also managing the inventory and repair of radio equipment.

In emergency situations, the Park Ranger takes command, executing search and rescue operations and responding to accidents to ensure the safety of both visitors and park resources. They are trained to act decisively and effectively in high-pressure scenarios, providing critical support and guidance during crises.

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 2025 until November 2025 at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment March 2026.
• Days/Shifts will vary, will work 40 hrs. per week, holidays and weekends will be required.
• 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:

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation.
• This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law.
  • Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.