
Virginia Department of Conservation and RecreationAn official website of the Commonwealth of Virginia Here's how you knowAn official websiteHere's how you know
DCR is looking for talented people to fill positions listed below. Unless stated otherwise, you must complete and submit an electronic state application by the job announcement's close date.
Generally applications must be made through the RMS (electronic state application). We will, however, accept paper applications (Word) for some state park slots. Be sure to refer to the individual recruitment for specific requirements.
Certain positions require a criminal background check, a conflict of interest financial statement or both. Law-enforcement positions require a fingerprint-based FBI investigation. DCR is an EEO/AA/ADA Employer.
For seasonal and hourly-wage positions at state parks, contact the particular park for details.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, all new hires must complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Executive branch agencies are required to use the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
For additional information on these openings, contact hr@dcr.virginia.gov. Find positions available throughout Virginia at Virginia Jobs.
Hiring Range: $15.00 per hour and housing is provided
Position numbers: CT001, CT002, CT003, CT004, CT005, CT006, CT007, CT008, CT009, CT010, CT011, CT012, CT013, CT014, and CT015
Job Duties
The Virginia Department of Conservation (DCR) is the state’s lead conservation agency, and it takes a diverse agency to work for a diverse commonwealth. DCR protects what people care about – access to the outdoors, natural habitats, open spaces, clean water and safe infrastructure. DCR is currently searching for participants to join our Park Ranger Career Development Program in multiple locations throughout the state. We manage 43 Virginia State Parks, which have thousands of campsites, hundreds of cabins, beaches, festivals, educational programs, more than 500 miles of trails… plus much more.
The Park Ranger Career Development Program offers participants a great way to get started in a state parks career. The program is held in the summer and introduces participants to a variety of park operations. This experience helps applicants be prepared for entry level positions through training and exposure to all operational aspects of a Virginia State Park.
Candidates accepted into the program will spend 12 weeks working, and living, in a state park. Participants that perform well are invited to participate the following summer and will be assigned to a different park. Upon successful performance in the program, participants are encouraged to apply for park ranger, chief ranger and other positions in the state park system.
The duties of a participant in the Park Ranger Career Development Program include a wide variety or responsibilities. Experiences in the program typically include: Maintenance, Customer Service, Enterprise, Interpretation/Education, Housekeeping, Public Safety, Administration and Resource Management.
If you’re someone who wants to love what you do and make a difference, DCR is the place for you!
Minimum Qualifications
In order to be considered for the Park Ranger Career Development Program, you must:
Additional Considerations
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Criminal history record check, references, work history and DMV driving record will be verified prior to employment. Ability to work in diverse conditions including exposure to the outdoors, weather in all seasons, dust, animals and insects. Ability to perform heavy manual labor to include standing, bending, pulling, climbing, and frequent lifting.
IF YOU ARE A STUDENT SEEKING INTERNSHIP CREDIT, AND YOU ARE SELECTED FOR THE PROGRAM, YOU MUST OBTAIN A SIGNED MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT (MOA) BETWEEN THE STUDENT’S COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY AND DCR. THE MOA WILL BE PROVIDED BY DCR AND IT WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO HAVE IT COMPLETED BEFORE EMPLOYMENT BEGINS.
State applications will only be accepted as submitted online by 11:55 pm on the closing date through PageUp. State applications submitted via email, postal mail, fax, or in person will not be considered. You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Employment in all positions within the Virginia State Parks is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check including a criminal history record check.
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer