State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger)
This is the entry and training level class for this series. The incumbents, under close supervision, will learn the duties of the State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) by participating in basic law enforcement, public contact and visitor services, interpretation, and resource management training programs. Incumbents who do not successfully complete the Department’s Basic Visitor Services Training Program will be ineligible for movement to the class of State Park Peace Officer (Ranger). AS A PEACE OFFICER, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CARRY AND USE FIREARMS.
NOTE: Applications may be submitted only during an open filing period. THE TENTATIVE FILING PERIOD FOR THE CADET EXAM WILL BE IN APRIL 2019. Please monitor this web page or the Jobs page for notification on when to submit your application. www.parks.ca.gov/cadet
We are pleased you have an interest in learning more about what it takes to become a State Park Peace Officer. The State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger/Lifeguard) classification is the entry and training level for men and women interested in a law enforcement career with California State Parks. Career opportunities are available throughout the entire State. We encourage you to begin learning more about working as a State Park Peace Officer by reviewing the information on these pages and reading profiles of some of our officers. We also suggest contacting a recruiter by emailing recruiting@parks.ca.gov - they are a great resource to help answer your questions and arrange a ride-along. Be sure to include your geographic area in the email so staff may connect you with the appropriate recruiter. (Before sending an email to the Recruiting email address, please be sure to first review all information on this web page to answer most of your general questions.)
The selection process for entering into this classification takes a minimum of approximately 15 - 18 months and includes the following elements:
Academy and Training
Upon successful completion of the selection process, you may be invited to attend a 6-8 month long academy including specialized training as a State Park Peace Officer Cadet. At the academy you will be trained to become a State Park Peace Officer Ranger or Lifeguard. Currently, most cadets attend training at Butte College Law Enforcement Academy; however, it is at the Department's discretion to determine academy location for each class.
Check out this video to learn more about what it is like to become a State Park Peace Officer (Ranger):