DCNR Ranger Trainee - Little Buffalo State Park
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DCNR Ranger Trainee - Little Buffalo State Park
Salary
$22.53 Hourly
Location
Perry County, PA
Job Type
Civil Service Seasonal Full-Time
Job Number
CS-2026-49682-74745
Department
Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
Division
CN Little Buffalo St Prk
Opening Date
05/14/2026
Closing Date
5/27/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Code
74745
Position Number
00020393
Union
PSRA
Bargaining Unit
R4
Pay Group
RG28
Bureau / Division Code
00386317
Bureau / Division
CN Little Buffalo St
Worksite Address
1579 State Park Road
City
Newport, Pennsylvania
Zip Code
17074
Contact Name
OA, CE Section Intake Division
Contact Email
Ra-OACEINTAKESEC@pa.gov
Description
Benefits
Questions
THE POSITION
Become a Seasonal DCNR Ranger Trainee with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and make a difference at Little Buffalo State Park. You will patrol park grounds, assist visitors, and learn important ranger skills through classroom and field training. Your work helps keep the park safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone. Step into a role where every day brings a new opportunity to support the outdoors.
Watch this video (https://www.youtube.com/embed/I1fdX9XMAZk?&rel=0) to see how DCNR Rangers make Pennsylvania a better place to work, live and play!
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
This position helps protect visitors and park resources by patrolling the grounds, providing assistance, and supporting law enforcement activities. The role includes public contact, safety responsibilities, and maintaining accurate reports and inspections. As a Seasonal Full-time DCNR Ranger Trainee, you will perform the following duties:
Park Patrols: Monitor grounds by vehicle, ATV, or boat to ensure safety and update signage throughout the park
Visitor Assistance: Provide information, staff offices, and register visitors using the reservation system
Law Enforcement: Enforce park rules, investigate incidents, and prepare reports in cooperation with police and wildlife agencies
Emergency Response: Handle emergencies, provide first aid and CPR, direct traffic, and communicate with supervisors
Report Management: Prepare logs, incident reports, mileage sheets, and maintain park attendance records
Facility Checks: Inspect buildings and structures and ensure equipment and vehicles remain clean and organized
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description (https://careers.employment.pa.gov/pd/PD_NEOGOV.asp?p=00020393) .
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 March 2027.
Hours and shifts will vary, and the position requires a 40-hour work week. Holiday and weekend work will also 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.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
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:
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 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.
Other Requirements:
This position requires employees to successfully pass a physical fitness test within 6 months of the start of employment. Click here (https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=9244039&DocName=Ranger-Job-Requirements.pdf) to learn more about these requirements.
You must meet the PA residency requirement (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) and click on Residency Guidelines.
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.
All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers (https://www.pa.gov/agencies/hrmoa/resources/generative-ai-hiring-guidance) for additional information.
Veterans:
Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
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.
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.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
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.
Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this shortvideo (https://www.youtube.com/embed/HtcSRnndflc?rel=0) !
See the total value of your benefits package by exploring ourbenefits calculator.
Health & Wellness
We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*
Compensation & Financial Planning
We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.
Work/Life Balance
We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*
Values and Culture
We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.
Employee Perks
Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.
For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visitwww.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
01
Special Requirement: Will you be at least 21 years of age at the time of employment?
If yes, please click the button below. If no, please do not apply at this time and exit out of this application.
Yes
No
02
Special Requirement: Do you possess a valid driver's license which is not under suspension?
Yes
No
03
If you answered "Yes" to the previous question, please provide the issuing state and license number. If you answered "No" @type N/A in the box.
04
How many semester credits of college coursework have you completed 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?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If your education was acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visitingwww.naces.organd clicking the Evaluation Services Link.
You must attach your documentation prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a document to the application after it has been submitted.
15 credits or more
Less than 15 credits
None
05
How much full-time paraprofessional/technical level experience do you possess providing visitor services in a public park, forest, recreation area, or a privately-owned and operated nature or outdoor education center?
6 months or more
Less than 6 months
None
06
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experiencemustalso be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, @type N/A in the text box below.
07
You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application, or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. Youmustcomplete the applicationandanswer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.
All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.
Read each work behavior carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training.The "Level of Performance" you choose for each work behavior must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered.In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.
If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.
If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to ourFAQ page (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) .
Yes
08
WORK BEHAVIOR 1 - CUSTOMER SERVICE
Communicate with the public or other personnel to gather and provide information. Respond to inquiries; explain rules, regulations, and policies; and refer individuals for additional assistance if necessary.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience communicating with others to gather or provide information related to LAW ENFORCEMENT or RECREATIONAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, OR NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.
B. I have experience communicating with others to gather or provide information. This was NOT related to law enforcement or recreational, environmental, or natural resource management.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to communications or conflict resolution.
D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.
09
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Your experience providing customer service, to whom, and the subject(s).
Your level of responsibility.
10
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
11
WORK BEHAVIOR 2 - WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
Write various reports and entries into logbooks regarding topics such as the condition of the campground, facilities, equipment, or incidents. Ensure that all information is accurate, coherent, and complete in accordance with policies, standards, and legal requirements.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience writing reports AND completing logbook entries.
B. I have experience writing reports OR completing logbook entries.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to report writing or English composition.
D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.
12
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Your experience writing reports or logbook entries and the subject(s).
Your level of responsibility.
13
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
14
WORK BEHAVIOR 3 - PATROL PROPERTY
Patrol the park or other property to inspect structures and grounds for damage, safety hazards, fire and litter; ensure proper signage throughout the park or property to inform visitors of rules, regulations, directions, special events, or programs; and ensure equipment and work areas are maintained.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience patrolling or inspecting structures or grounds for damage, safety hazards, fire, or litter; ensuring rules, regulations, or directions are displayed; AND ensuring equipment and work areas are organized to prevent hazards. This experience was in a RECREATIONAL FACILITY OR PARK.
B. I have experience patrolling or inspecting structures or grounds for damage, safety hazards, fire, or litter; ensuring rules, regulations, or directions are displayed; AND ensuring equipment and work areas are organized to prevent hazards. This experience was NOT in a recreational facility or park.
C. I have experience patrolling or inspecting structures or grounds for damage, safety hazards, fire, or litter; ensuring rules, regulations, or directions are displayed; OR ensuring equipment and work areas are organized to prevent hazards.
D. I have successfully completed college-level coursework or training related to property, structure, or equipment inspections.
E. I have NO experience, coursework, or training related to this work behavior.
15
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Your experience patrolling, ensuring proper signage, and organizing equipment/work area and the @type(s).
Your level of responsibility.
16
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/UniversityTraining Source
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
17
WORK BEHAVIOR 4 - READING COMPREHENSION
Read and interpret law enforcement, and recreational, environmental, and natural resource management related laws, rules, regulations, procedures, and processes.
Levels of Performance
Select the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
A. I have experience reading and interpreting LAW ENFORCEMENT, OR RECREATIONAL, ENVIRONMENT, or NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT related laws, rules, regulations, procedures, or processes.
B. I have experience reading and interpreting laws, rules, regulations, procedures, or processes. This was NOT related to law enforcement, or recreational, environmental, or natural resource management.
C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to reading comprehension.
D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.
18
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the box below.
The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
Your experience reading and interpreting laws, rules, regulations, procedures, or processes and the @type(s).
Your level of responsibility.
19
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, @type N/A in the text box below.
College/University
Course Title
Credits/Clock Hours
Required Question
Employer
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Address
613 North Street
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120
Website
http://www.employment.pa.gov
