This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Park Ranger
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is entry-level professional law enforcement work with Missouri Division of State Parks which includes the power of arrest.
Enforces Missouri state laws and state park rules and regulations by use of citations, warnings, and custodial arrests.
Develops solutions to reduce and avoid crimes/criminal activity. Patrols state parks and/or historic sites by emergency equipped vehicle, bicycle, on foot, and/or by use of a specialized vehicle such as a motorcycle, boat, or ATV.
Provides protection and first aid treatment to state park and/or historic site visitors and employees.
Coordinates and conducts search and rescue/recovery operations; provides aid to other agencies in emergency situations.
Responds to and investigates crimes and accidents within state park boundaries; conducts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies in investigations.
Seizes, collects, and processes evidence while maintaining a proper chain of custody for use in criminal prosecution; files reports and charges.
Prepares criminal cases for prosecution; provides testimony in court or by deposition; and reports final case dispositions.
Participates in and/or coordinates law enforcement services at special events.
Controls and removes dangerous, injured, or diseased animals from areas where they could harm themselves and/or state park visitors.
Conducts training in assigned area of Ranger Program Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).
Assists state park and/or historic site visitors by providing information, directions, and answering questions.
Conducts annual physical inventories of division property; maintains accurate, up-to-date records and files for facilities.
Promotes public relations by delivering educational programs concerning the state park system, law enforcement, and security to schools, civic groups, and state park and historic site visitors.
Participates in regular and special in-service law enforcement training schools.
Performs safety and security inspections at facilities; ensures proper care and timely maintenance of assigned patrol vehicle.
Assists with prescribed burns within park boundaries.
Travels to attend training and events.
Exercises independence in planning and implementing daily work assignments; work is performed under the supervision of a Park Ranger Sergeant or other administrative designee.
Performs other related work as assigned.
(The following minimum qualifications will determine merit system eligibility and may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers.)
Completion of a training program from a certified law enforcement training academy; and, eligible to be commissioned as a peace officer (must be 21 years of age to be commissioned).
Ability to initially and annually demonstrate the level of physical fitness deemed necessary to perform the essential functions of the job through successful completion of a fit-for-duty assessment administered by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Ability to pass a background investigation administered by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Ability to pass a medical examination, a visual examination with eyesight corrected to 20/40, and a psychological evaluation as prescribed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources after a conditional offer of appointment is made.
Ability to obtain, at the time of appointment, and maintain licensure as a peace officer in accordance with the requirements established by the State of Missouri.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification as a police bicyclist in accordance with the criteria prescribed by the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA).
Possession of a valid Missouri vehicle operator's license appropriate for vehicle assignment.
By assignment, a position may require certification as an instructor in CPR/First Aid, Defensive Tactics, or Firearms.
Please note that documentation that supports your eligibility (i.e. transcripts, employment records, etc.) may be required at any time during the application and hiring process. If you do not possess the minimum qualifications, please consider one of many other employment opportunities with the State of Missouri.
Do you possess the key skills which are considered essential for successful employment in this classification?
Introductory knowledge of the procedures, techniques and practices used in law enforcement work.
Introductory knowledge of Missouri Statutes relating to state parks and criminal law.
Introductory knowledge of the policies, programs, and procedures of state park and/or historic site operations.
Introductory knowledge of the fundamental principles of safety practices and methods.
Ability to administer first aid and CPR.
Ability to communicate effectively; to perceive color differences; to hear verbal and radio communications; to interact with individuals of diverse social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.
Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with other employees, government officials, and the general public.
Ability to develop and maintain clear and concise records, files and reports.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Missouri vehicle operator's license.
Ability to operate specialized vehicles skillfully after prescribed training.
Ability to display a proficiency in physical arrest tactics and firearms usage after prescribed training period.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits