Ranger/Lifeguard Cadet Selection Process

*CURRENT INFORMATION FOR INTERESTED CADET CANDIDATES: We are not currently accepting applications for the State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger/Lifeguard) position, and applications will not be held.  We do not anticipate offering the Cadet Exam until Spring 2013, at the very earliest. Should you wish to be notified as to when to submit an application, please send your first and last name and e-mail address to egayton@parks.ca.gov to be added to the Cadet Candidate E-Blast list.

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 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.

The process for entering into this classification takes approximately 15 months and generally involves the steps of our Selection/Examination Process  -- also listed below.

1. Submit Application - Standard State Application + Criminal Record Supplemental 
2. Written Exam
3. Physical Agility Tests
4. Oral Exam / Interview
5. Background Investigation
6. Psychological and Medical Evaluations
   
   Academy and Training
   
   Upon successful completion of the Selection/Examination Process, you may be invited to attend an approximately 6 – month long academy including specialized training as a State Park Ranger/Lifeguard Cadet. Here you will be trained to become a State Park Peace Officer Ranger or Lifeguard. Currently, most cadets attend Park Operations training at Mott Training Center in Pacific Grove, followed by Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) at the National Guard facility, Camp San Luis Obispo.
   
   THE STATE PARK PEACE OFFICER
   
   Profiles of State Park lifeguards and rangers
   
   FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
   
   CADET STATUS CHECK - Candidates who have been accepted to continue with the Background Investigation Process can check their current status in the Selection Process. This allows each candidate to track his or her status during Background Investigations and Medical / Psychological Evaluations.