Now Recruiting for the State Park Peace Officer
Cadet Academy (Ranger/Lifeguard)
Attention all adventure seekers! The State Park Peace Officer Cadet Academy is now recruiting the next generation of Ranger and Lifeguard Cadets. Embark on an exciting journey that will lead you to a fulfilling career as a State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Ranger or Lifeguard.
During your time in the academy, you’ll learn natural and cultural resource protection, law enforcement, public safety, education, interpretation, program management, and so much more. This is your chance to make a difference while pursuing a career that you're passionate about.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to kickstart your dream career! Apply today and take the first step towards your future as a State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Ranger or Lifeguard.
Applications are being accepted now through Saturday, June 10, 2023.
About the Cadet Academy:
State Park Peace Officer Cadet Selection Process
Frequently Asked Questions
Cadet Assessment Bulletins:
State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger)
State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Lifeguard)
Cadet Application Forms:
STD 678
Criminal Record Supplemental Questionnaire
Additional Resources:
Public Safety and Resource Protection
Lateral Transfers
Live the Parks Life
At California State Parks, we are committed to promoting a workforce that values every employee's talent, skills, viewpoints, and background. Whether you're looking to keep our parks and visitors safe as a State Park Peace Officer or Communications Operator, educate the public on the rich histories of California as a State Park Interpreter or State Park Historian, or keep our state parks maintained and operational year-round as a Park Maintenance Worker or State Park Equipment Operator, there are hundreds of career classifications waiting for you to explore today at California State Parks.
Racial Equity Statement:
California's cultural diversity is what places the golden state on the forefront of innovation and progress. Building a workforce as diverse as California is at the center of everything we do. California State Parks fosters a workforce that engages all voices and understands that advancing equity and inclusion throughout our organization is critical to the success of all communities.
By embracing multicultural perspectives, we strive to break down barriers and increase employment opportunities for all Californians, paying keen attention to underrepresented and marginalized groups. We care and are fully aware that there is a much work to be done and are committed to creating a workforce that is as diverse as California.
Featured Opportunities
Welcome to Featured Opportunities where you can explore a wide range of job and assessment opportunities at California State. Join the Parks team today!
The State Park Interpreter I, II, and III assessments have been re-released and are available online. Our State Park Interpreters develop interactive educational programs and teach the rich histories of California. Learn more about our California State Parks Interpretive programs!
Take the online assessments:
State Park Interpreter I
Pay: $4,383 - $5,488 (monthly)
Entry-level
State Park Interpreter II
Pay: $5,028 - $6,296 (monthly)
Journey-level
State Park Interpreter III
Pay: $6,248 - $7,763 (monthly)
Supervisory-level
View our current interpretive openings!!
Did you know you could get paid to work in the great outdoors and teach others about California’s beautiful State Parks?
Interpreters play an essential role in making visitors feel welcome and sharing knowledge through fun activities and educational programming!
With multiple positions available statewide, view current State Park Interpreter Openings and apply today!
Our California State Parks Communication Operators are emergency dispatchers that monitor emergency communications systems, answer calls for service, log incidents, and dispatch field units to emergencies.
Apply to take the Communications Operator assessment today and begin your parks career in this exciting and rewarding opportunity!
Communications Operator Assessment
Salary: $4,090 - $6,373 (monthly)
Learn more about the exciting career opportunities as a Communications Operator!
Passionate about protecting California’s natural and cultural resources through forest stewardship? Desire meaningful work?
Make a difference as part of a growing, enthusiastic team focused on increasing wildfire resilience through conservation forestry, prescribed burning, structure hardening, ecosystem restoration, and more!
Forestry Job Openings
Positions statewide include:
- Forestry Aides
- Forestry Technicians
- Forestry Assistants
- Forester I, II
- Internships
Questions? Connect with our Natural Resources Team.
Join the Parks Family
California State Parks employs numerous part-time positions for seasonal work. No examination is needed to apply for seasonal work - apply today!
- Park Aides
- Maintenance Aides
- Seasonal Lifeguards
- Seasonal Clerks
- Archaeological Aides
- Forestry Aides
- Environmental Services Interns
- Park Interpretive Specialists
- Guide Trainees
- Student and Graduate Assistants
View Seasonal Openings
More Information on Seasonal Opportunities
Ask a Recruiter
The Park and Recreation Specialist Series assessments are now available and online! From creating new outdoor parks in California communities to leading outdoor recreation programs, the opportunities are endless.
From entry-level to management, explore our Park and Recreation Series Assessments today!
Park and Recreation Specialist
Salary: $3,448 - $6,434 (month)
Entry-level
Associate Park and Recreation Specialist
Salary: $6,061 - $7,587 (month)
Journey-level
Staff Park and Recreation Specialist
Salary: $6,882 - $8,587 (month)
Management
Senior Park and Recreation Specialist
Salary: $8,341 - $9,472 (month)
Full supervisory
View Our Job Openings
View our Exams/Assessments
Parks Career Resources
Welcome to the Career Resources page for California State Parks! Here, you will find a variety of resources to help you navigate your career and find employment with our organization. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance in your current role, we have opportunities for everyone. Explore our job listings, career paths, assessments schedule, and professional development opportunities to take the next step in your career with California State Parks! Explore the Career Resources page.
California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) Career Center
California State Parks is excited to take part in the first agency-wide collaborative physical career center. The career center is located in the heart of Downtown Sacramento at California State Parks headquarters, the brand new California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) headquarters building. Services provided include one-on-one career consultations, application/resume review, career guidance, mock interviews, and tips for applying. Learn more about this exciting new opportunity!
Days: Open every Tuesday/Thursday Hours: 11 AM to 4 PM
Parks Career Options
As a premier destination for outdoor recreation and education, we offer a wide range of career opportunities for individuals who are passionate about preserving and protecting our natural and cultural resources. From Interpretation and Education to Recreation, Law Enforcement, Cultural and Natural Resources, Administration, Operations, and Facilities and Maintenance, we have a variety of roles available to fit a range of interests and skills. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, we encourage you to explore the exciting opportunities available at California State Parks.
How to start...
Steps to Employment
Welcome! We want to make sure you have the best chance of getting hired at California State Parks, so here are a few steps to follow to ensure your eligibility:
- First, create a CalCareers account and search for an assessment that aligns with your interests.
- Once you've found an assessment you'd like to take, go ahead and complete it. If you successfully complete the assessment, you will become eligible to apply for any open positions in that classification.
- Finally, keep an eye out for job openings that interest you and apply for them through your CalCareers account. Remember, we are here to help you during your journey to employment with California State Parks!
Part-time and seasonal positions do not require you to complete an assessment.
Tip: Stay current with job and assessment opportunities by joining our Parks Jobs Mailing List!
Have Questions?
Workforce Planning and Recruitment Office (WPRO): We are here to assist you with career guidance at California State Parks! If you would like a recruiter to review your resume, help you find more information about a specific career path or assessment, or would like to schedule a one-on-one video/phone chat - reach out to us!
WPRO Mission Statement: Engaging with diverse Californians to bridge their dreams and ambition with rewarding careers and uplift communities through people-centered recruitment initiatives.
WPRO Events: Our team is excited to meet you at our statewide recruitment events – see when we’ll be in your area next!
Questions: Send your questions to the Workforce Planning and Recruitment Office (WPRO): recruiting@parks.ca.gov
Stay Connected
By following the Workforce Planning and Recruitment Office on social media, you can stay informed about job and assessment openings, trainings, and recruitment events happening across California.
If you're interested in working or volunteering in the state park system, or just want to learn more about what it takes to be a part of the Parks Team, following the Workforce Planning and Recruitment Office is a great way to get started.
