Park Wardens
Ontario Parks currently manages more than 340 parks. In doing so, we protect over 8.2 million ha of land, lakes, and rivers, while providing habitat for over 140 different species at risk. At the same time, we provide recreational opportunities by operating more than 20,000 car campsites, 170 roofed accommodations, and 8,000 backcountry campsites.
Enforcement staff play a key role in protecting the natural and cultural resources found in Provincial Parks. At the same time, they support positive visitor experiences through the delivery of high-quality customer service programs. Park Warden positions are seasonal contracts that generally revolve around the busy summer camping season (May - Oct). Contract lengths vary from park to park. Recruitment for seasonal contracts usually occurs in the late winter and into the early spring. (Feb - April). These short-term opportunities are great enforcement experience and can lead to long-term employment with Ontario Parks.
Mandatory qualifications include:
- minimum 19 years of age
- valid class “G” Ontario driver’s licence or equivalent
- ability to obtain security clearance through a criminal background check
- successful completion of multi-week Provincial Park Warden Course (provided)
Above and beyond the basic requirements, park wardens have a challenging job and require specific skill sets in order to be successful including:
- written and oral communication skills: the ability to effectively resolve customer conflicts/complaints, convey important information, document observations and activities, and write clear and concise reports
- problem-solving and decision-making skills: the ability to make difficult decisions related to public safety, emergency response, and officer safety
- leadership and initiative capabilities: the ability to work independently without direct supervision, and the initiative to remain productive and support other park programs when needed
- experience or education working in/with law enforcement
- experience or education managing natural or cultural resources
- knowledge and understanding of Ontario Parks and the objectives of our organization
If you are interested in applying to become a park warden, click on How to Apply.
