Backcountry Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Department Information THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) - PAYING $18.00 PER HOUR EMPLOYMENT STARTS 05/01/2026 THROUGH 9/30/2026 To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters). This announcement will remain open until FILLED. You are encouraged to apply early

The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities. COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Conduct aquatic nuisance species (ANS) surveys, using standardized scientific protocols, in various waters including the Green and Yampa Rivers within Colorado, specifically the Gates of Lodore, Echo Park, and Deerlodge Park boat ramps. Specifically, this position will conduct standardized monitoring for zebra mussels, quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and Eurasian watermilfoil including infestation mapping and population monitoring.

Water quality monitoring will also be conducted, as needed. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict field protocols is required including the use of state owned equipment. Candidates must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, to survey select streams and rivers.

Candidates should be comfortable interacting with members of the public in a professional manner while representing the Invasive Species Program and the agency as a whole. Candidates should be able to work in inclement weather conditions, including working on boats, in and around the water, and should be comfortable in backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some nights will be spent in motels.

Candidates must also assist the Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR) Specialist and Invasive Species Program Manager with any rapid response efforts that arise as a result of the sampling and monitoring program. Work also will include providing education to outfitters, anglers, hunters, and non-motorized watercraft users about aquatic invasive species and how to properly clean, drain, and dry their equipment. Staff will provide demonstrations and assistance for the public utilize self-serve cleaning stations, preventing accidental transport of aquatic invasive species.

Outreach will include collecting survey data, attending user group events and expositions, and educating recreational outfitters. Daily hours will vary, but work hours will be strictly limited to 40 per week (overtime compensation will only be granted in special circumstances) Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights SALARY: $18.00 Hourly FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime compensation. OPENING DATE: 03/23/2026 CLOSING DATE: Continuous JOB TYPE: Temporary (9 months or less) DEPARTMENT INFORMATION: THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) - PAYING $18.00 PER HOUR EMPLOYMENT STARTS 05/01/2026 THROUGH 9/30/2026 To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters)

This announcement will remain open until FILLED. You are encouraged to apply early. The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors.

In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities. COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources. Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

DESCRIPTION OF JOB: ____ Check here if this position will require the applicant to complete and submit a Background Screening Questionnaire - comprehensive (ex. Limited Commissioned Ranger positions). If checked, a NEOGOV notification is sent to applicants that contains this link and provides directions for applicants to submit their completed forms directly to you via email.

This is disclosed to applicants in the announcement as "Must successfully complete and pass a comprehensive background check" to manage applicant expectations. _____ Check here if this position requires basic background screening (ex. positions involving cash handling, vulnerable populations (children, disabled, etc), and/or use of state vehicles.

This is disclosed to applicants in the announcement as "Successful completion and passing of background screening may be required for placement in this position" to manage applicant expectations. JOB DESCRIPTION: Conduct aquatic nuisance species (ANS) surveys, using standardized scientific protocols, in various waters including the Green and Yampa Rivers within Colorado, specifically the Gates of Lodore, Echo Park, and Deerlodge Park boat ramps. Specifically, this position will conduct standardized monitoring for zebra mussels, quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and Eurasian watermilfoil including infestation mapping and population monitoring.

Water quality monitoring will also be conducted, as needed. Detailed record keeping and the ability to follow strict field protocols is required including the use of state owned equipment. Candidates must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, to survey select streams and rivers.

Candidates should be comfortable interacting with members of the public in a professional manner while representing the Invasive Species Program and the agency as a whole. Candidates should be able to work in inclement weather conditions, including working on boats, in and around the water, and should be comfortable in backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some nights will be spent in motels.

Candidates must also assist the Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR) Specialist and Invasive Species Program Manager with any rapid response efforts that arise as a result of the sampling and monitoring program. Work also will include providing education to outfitters, anglers, hunters, and non-motorized watercraft users about aquatic invasive species and how to properly clean, drain, and dry their equipment. Staff will provide demonstrations and assistance for the public utilize self-serve cleaning stations, preventing accidental transport of aquatic invasive species.

Outreach will include collecting survey data, attending user group events and expositions, and educating recreational outfitters. Daily hours will vary, but work hours will be strictly limited to 40 per week (overtime compensation will only be granted in special circumstances). MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, SUBSTITUTIONS, CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT & APPEAL RIGHTS: MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Must be 16 years of age or older Must have a current and valid driver's license required for operating a state vehicle and an acceptable driving record Possess basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite) Willingness to be flexible with the weekday work schedule Ability to travel extensively with overnight stays including camping Ability to drive long hours and remain alert Ability to work closely in small crews for long hours in a professional manner Ability to work in and around the water PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: B.S

in natural resources/botany/fisheries/wildlife or other natural resource field OR at least 1 year completed coursework toward a degree in the field Experience performing data entry Experience conducting biological field surveys especially with aquatics and/or water quality including performing species identification Experience with zebra mussel, quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, Eurasian watermilfoil, or other invasive species Experience boating and/or trailering - including knowledge of boat and trailer anatomy, ability to launch and land in inclement weather, and ability to tow trailers on highways and steep mountain roads Experience with ArcGIS software Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) Excellent organization skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize and multitask PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position will perform physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Ability to perceive color differences and to hear verbal and radio communications. Supplemental Information The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness.

The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities. We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities.

The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. ADAAA Accommodations Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation

You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date. E-Verify employer: The Department of Natural Resources participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program's Right to Work for all newly-hired employees.

Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities

Toll-Free Applicant Support - Technical Help If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it

The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues. HOW TO APPLY: Thank you for your interest. Submit an on-line application by clicking the link below or submit a State of Colorado Application for Announced Vacancy and all supplemental questions according to the instructions provided below.

Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed above.