🌲 Park Police Officer Trainee 1 – NYS Civil Service Exam Guide 2026
The Park Police Officer Trainee 1 position offers a pathway into law enforcement within New York State’s park system. This role includes a structured traineeship leading to full Park Police Officer status with statewide authority.
📌 Exam Details
| Title | Park Police Officer Trainee 1 |
|---|---|
| Exam Number | 21-027020 |
| Spanish Language Exam | 21-028020 |
| Agency | NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation |
| Issued | July 31, 2026 |
👉 View Official Examination Announcement
💰 Salary & Career Progression
Starting Salary (Trainee): $61,587
After Traineeship (Grade 14): $73,796
Additional Location-Based Pay
- Downstate Adjustment: $1,762
- Orange, Putnam, Dutchess: $1,467
- NYC, Rockland, Westchester: $2,204
- Nassau & Suffolk: $2,571
📍 Job Locations
Positions exist across eleven New York State Park Police Zones statewide. Assignments are determined based on agency operational needs following academy graduation.
👮 Duties
- Enforce federal and New York State laws
- Provide protection and assistance to park visitors
- Patrol parks, historic sites, and recreational areas
- Operate various patrol vehicles (ATV, boat, snowmobile, etc.)
- Respond to emergencies and conduct investigations
🎓 Training & Advancement
The traineeship includes formal coursework, on-the-job training, and supervised field experience. Successful completion results in automatic promotion to Park Police Officer (Grade 14) without further examination.
🎓 Minimum Qualifications
👉 See Full Examination Announcement
⚠️ Additional Requirements
Background Investigation
Includes a full character investigation and polygraph. Felony convictions will disqualify candidates.
Driver’s License
Must possess a valid New York State driver’s license.
Drug Testing
Pre-employment drug screening required. Cannabis use is not permitted.
Fingerprinting
Required prior to appointment. Candidates must pay applicable fees.
Physical & Medical Standards
Includes vision requirements, physical strength, coordination, and overall fitness.
Physical Ability Testing
Includes testing of strength, agility, flexibility, and endurance.
Psychological Evaluation
Required prior to appointment.
Age Requirement
Minimum 20 years old; maximum 43 (with military exceptions).
Citizenship & Residency
Must be a U.S. citizen and maintain New York State residency.
Probation
Employment may be terminated during traineeship if performance is unsatisfactory.
Appearance Standards
Must comply with NYS Park Police appearance policies.
📝 How to Apply
👉 Apply for NYS Law Enforcement Exams
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary?
$61,587 during traineeship and $73,796 after promotion.
How long is the training?
Approximately 26 weeks of academy training plus a one-year traineeship.
Do Park Police Officers carry firearms?
Yes, they are sworn police officers with full authority.
Is there a physical fitness test?
Yes, candidates must pass strength, agility, and endurance testing.