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CITY OF SARATOGA, CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT • INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY

1 Position  •  $25.00/hour  •  Up to 12 Weeks  •  Flexible Start Date  •  Summer 2026

 

This internship is offered as part of a Regional Internship Partnership designed to introduce current students and recent college graduates to local municipal government. The City of Saratoga participates in this program with the goal of connecting a diverse student population to public sector work, providing meaningful hands-on experience that supports both personal and professional growth.

Position Description

The City Manager Department has one part-time, paid summer internship opportunity (up to 20 hours per week). This is a single position that provides exposure across multiple functions within the department, giving the selected intern broad exposure to municipal operations rather than a narrow focus on one specialty. The internship runs for up to 12 weeks, and the start and end dates can be arranged around the selected candidate’s college summer break schedule.

The workload will balance supporting daily municipal operations with contributing to special projects. The intern will receive assignments and work direction from staff within the department.  

Administrative Analyst. The intern will support the planning and delivery of community programs such as the Youth in Government program and City-led events. Duties include scheduling, vendor coordination, on-site event assistance, research on municipal best practices, and data tracking.

City Clerk. The intern will assist with the preparation and coordination of City Council and commission meetings, including agenda compilation, minutes, and document management. Responsibilities also include supporting public records requests and ensuring compliance with open meeting laws and transparency requirements.

Public Affairs and Community Engagement Officer. The intern will help draft newsletters, website content, and social media posts, and will support event promotion, marketing materials, and community outreach campaigns. Additional work may include contributing to the annual State of the City report and video content produced with City Council.

Read more about the City Manager's Department here..

CITY OF SARATOGA, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT • INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY

1 Position  •  $25.00/hour  •  Up to 12 Weeks  •  Flexible Start Date  •  Summer 2026

 

This internship is offered as part of a Regional Internship Partnership designed to introduce current students and recent college graduates to local municipal government. The City of Saratoga participates in this program with the goal of connecting a diverse student population to public sector work, providing meaningful hands-on experience that supports both personal and professional growth.

Position Description

The Community Development Department has one part-time, paid summer internship opportunity in its Development Services Division (up to 20 hours per week). The selected intern will gain hands-on experience in municipal arboriculture, working alongside City staff on a range of tasks that support the protection and management of Saratoga’s urban tree canopy. The internship runs for up to 12 weeks, and the start and end dates can be arranged around the selected candidate’s college summer break schedule.

The workload will balance supporting day-to-day operations with exposure to longer-term planning and research projects. The intern will receive assignments and work direction from staff within the department.

Tree Permit Applications and Development Review. The intern will assist staff in the processing of tree permit applications and the review of development projects. This includes evaluating applications for consistency with the City’s tree regulations and tracking project status through the review process.

Field Inspections and Plan Review. The intern will participate in field inspections to assess potential construction impacts on trees. Work will include reviewing grading and site plans, identifying tree protection measures, and documenting field conditions.

Research and Ordinance Work. The intern will support research related to the City’s tree ordinance and fire preparedness initiatives. This may include reviewing comparable ordinances from neighboring jurisdictions, summarizing research findings, and supporting the City’s ordinance update process.

Tree Identification and Health Assessment. The intern will learn to identify tree species commonly found in Saratoga and develop familiarity with common pests, diseases, and abiotic factors that affect tree health. This knowledge will be applied during field work and permit review.

Tree Appraisal. The intern will be introduced to the basics of tree appraisal methodology, including an overview of how trees are valued in the context of permit applications and development projects.

Database Maintenance. The intern will assist with the maintenance of department databases and records related to tree permits, inspections, and urban forestry data.

Community Interaction. The intern will have the opportunity to interact directly with Saratoga residents and contractors, developing professional communication skills in a public service context.

Read more about the City of Saratoga's tree program here.

POLICE ADMINISTRATION COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Gilroy Police Department

20 – 25 hours per week 

$16.90 – $18.84 per hour

 

This is an on-site position that actively supports department operations.

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team! 

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Gilroy Police Department is seeking a motivated and community-minded undergraduate Police Administration Intern interested in gaining hands-on experience in a dynamic law enforcement environment. This internship offers the opportunity to work alongside sworn officers and professional staff while supporting public safety initiatives that benefit the Gilroy community.

The intern will assist multiple divisions within the department by providing clerical and administrative support related to crime analysis, youth task force and gang prevention initiatives, public safety communications, and community outreach programs. Responsibilities may also include assisting with special projects, handling confidential information, and supporting efforts that enhance departmental operations.

The intern will also participate in community outreach efforts and local events, helping strengthen connections between the department and the community.

The Police Administration Intern will work under the guidance of a Management Analyst, gaining valuable mentorship and professional experience while supporting the needs of various units within the department. This internship provides meaningful development for students interested in law enforcement, criminal justice, public administration, or public service careers.

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 

The Gilroy Police Department is a progressive, forward-thinking organization that values professional growth and strives to utilize the talents of our employees to their fullest potential. Guided by our core values—respect, integrity, compassion, teamwork, innovation, and accountability—we are committed to enhancing police services, strengthening community relationships, and building meaningful partnerships. Through these efforts, we work to meet the evolving needs of the community we are proud and dedicated to serve.

VOLUNTEER WORK SCHEDULE 

Internships can start as early as May 26, 2026, and end as late as September 30, 2026. This paid internship is offered at 20 – 25 hours per week with flexible scheduling. Interns may request a schedule of their choice during standard work hours as described below. 

The official start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally Monday – Friday between 8:00am – 5:00pm. 

CIVIL ENGINEERING COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Public Works Department, Engineering Division

15 – 25 hours per week

$16.90 – $18.84 per hour

 

This is an on-site position that actively supports department operations.

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.


ABOUT THE POSITION
Are you a motivated and aspiring Civil Engineer looking to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting? The City of Gilroy is recruiting for a Civil Engineering Intern to support critical projects that directly impact the community. As an Intern, you will assist in the design, analysis, and implementation of infrastructure projects, gaining exposure to municipal engineering processes.

As a Civil Engineering Intern, you will have the opportunity to work on Capital Improvement Projects, Land Development, and Transportation initiatives, contribute to project planning and execution, and collaborate with experienced engineers and planners to develop solutions that enhance public infrastructure. 

This is an excellent opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice while making a tangible difference in your community. 

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 
Our Public Works team of talented Engineers and Technicians collaborate to design, build, and maintain the City’s  storm drain, streets, sidewalks, parks, landscapes, urban forest, and related infrastructure. When you join our team, you will work amongst Engineering professionals who share a passion for serving the residents of Gilroy and improving the community. Our goal is to continuously promote a better quality of life for those who live, work, and visit the City of Gilroy by facilitating efficient engineering services and the creation of orderly growth and development within the city. The Public Works Engineering team values teamwork, innovation, collaboration and offers a busy, yet supportive environment.

 

WORK SCHEDULE 

This internship can start as early as June 1, 2026, and end as late as September 30, 2026. 

This paid internship is offered at 15 – 25 hours per week with flexible scheduling. 

The official start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally Monday – Friday between 8:00am – 5:00pm.

 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Interns are in a learning environment and will assist with the following tasks and projects:

• Review technical reports, plans, and specifications. 
• Participate in field investigations and inspections. 
• Calculate material quantity estimates for contract bids. 
• Prepare, collect, and organize documents for construction contract compliance.

YOUTH TASK FORCE COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Gilroy Police Department

20 – 25 hours per week 

Bachelor’s Intern - $16.90 – $18.84 per hour

Master’s Intern - $19.56 – $21.74 per hour

This is an on-site position that actively supports department operations.

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team!


ABOUT THE POSITION

Are you a college student with a passion for making a difference in your community? Are you interested in a future career in law enforcement, public service, or community outreach? The City of Gilroy is seeking a college level Youth Task Force (YTF) Summer College Intern to work in the Gilroy Police Department Violence Prevention Unit. This is a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience, develop leadership skills and work alongside dedicated professionals who are committed to community safety and engagement. The Intern will participate and work with an experienced team and gain skills and knowledge in planning, organizing, and coordinating various youth and community projects, programs, events and tasks related to violence and gang prevention efforts. 

In this exciting opportunity, the YTF Intern will work under the direction of the Youth Task Force Coordinator, and will help carry out community events, participate in community organizing, community forums, community surveying, support engagement projects, and will help lead recreational and outreach programs at San Ysidro Park. The internship is a balance of office/administrative work and hands-on work in the field.

This internship has potential to be extended to the Fall semester. 

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 

The Gilroy Police Department is a progressive and forward-thinking organization that fosters career growth and seeks to utilize our employees to their fullest potential. We are devoted to ensuring the safety of our community. Our core values of respect, integrity, compassion, teamwork, innovation, and accountability are a foundation to enhancing police services, community relations, quality partnerships, and meeting the needs of our community whom we are dedicated to serve.  

 

WORK SCHEDULE 

This paid summer internship opportunity is part-time varied work schedule up to 25 hours per week. This internship schedule may have varied work hours each day to align with assigned tasks and participation in various community programs and events.

The official start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally between 8:00am – 5:00pm. 

“PROVIDING EXCELLENT PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE COMMUNITY.” – GILROY POLICE DEPARTMENT 

 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Assist with strategic planning update and community assessment project. 
• Support planning and coordination for National Night Out (August) and the Party in the Park Summer Series community events.
• Contribute to Project THRIVE initiatives, including program support, tracking activities, and assisting with reporting requirements. 
• Provide general administrative and office support, including routine organizational and operational tasks.

About the Position: The Planning Department is seeking TWO interns who are interested in learning about open space and planning for ecologically sensitive public recreation. Their responsibilities may include researching and compiling project information, supporting community and stakeholder engagement, assisting with environmental review and documentation, researching new programs and initiatives, conducting field surveys and data collection, and using computer-based systems such as GIS, Microsoft Excel and Adobe Illustrator for analysis of data and preparation of documents related to Midpen programs, lands and facilities. The interns will work as a team and individually on assignments, including opportunities for field work to gain experience in data collection techniques and tools and on-the-job training in project management, planning research, analysis, and written communication.  For additional information about the position, see the Job Description on our website. The expected start date for the interns is in early July 2026. We have limited flexibility to change the start date. 

About Midpen: Midpen helps plants, animals and people thrive throughout the greater Santa Cruz Mountains region by preserving a greenbelt of more than 70,000 acres of public open space with 250 miles of trails in 27 extraordinary preserves, permanently protected for natural resource conservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Midpen is a public agency with a focused mission that guides our work, and where every employee makes an impact. If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the legacy of open space protection, natural resource restoration and outdoor recreation, working with an incredible team of like-minded colleagues, we invite you to apply for this position! For more information please visit our Intern Program Brochure on our Employment Opportunities page. At Midpen, we believe open space is for all. Our public lands are shared spaces provided for the community by the community. All people, regardless of background, deserve respect, dignity, safety, and a sense of belonging. Midpen welcomes all people to enjoy the public open space preserves we hold in trust, supporting the mental, physical, and social well-being of our region.

Basic Requirements: Current enrollment in an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree program, or trade school in a relevant field or a recent graduate (within the last 12 months). Successful candidates will have a background in park/open space management, regional/land use/environmental planning, environmental studies, GIS/geography, or another related field and experience with field data collection techniques. This internship requires strong organizational and analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and with a team. Experience with Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, ArcGIS software, GPS equipment, Microsoft Excel, and Apple iPads is desired, and familiarity with Midpen preserves/trails as well as local flora, fauna, and natural history are a plus. Possession of a valid California driver’s license is required before time of appointment. Must possess the ability to lift, carry, push and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

Working Conditions:  This position will report to the Planning Department at the Administrative Office in Los Altos, California.  Midpen offers a hybrid office/telecommute work environment for this position, which will be divided between onsite work, field visits, and limited home office work.  The selected individuals will be required to work a minimum of three days on-site per week, and assignments may vary between field and office work. Field work is conducted in rural or mountainous Midpen open space areas, which may involve working alone or with another intern in wildland areas, traversing rough difficult terrain sometimes with poison oak and dense vegetation, and carrying equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. This is a temporary position working 20 – 40 hours per week (within regular business days/hours). Regular business is conducted Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm. Interns may work up to a total of 950 hours over a 6-to-9-month period. This is a non-benefited position.

 

Ready to apply?  Great!  We welcome your application online at CalOpps.org.

Application deadline is April 12, 2026. Applicants with the most relevant experience and qualifications suitable for the position will be contacted for an interview.

The following application items are required to be considered*:

1. Fully completed CalOpps employment application 

2. Cover letter 

3. Resume 

4. Supplemental question responses

*Incomplete CalOpps employment applications, or applications without the required application items listed here, will not be considered for the position.

Virtual Interviews are planned for Tuesday, April 28, 2026.  Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate individual schedules.

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation

by contacting the Human Resources department at

(650) 691-1200 or via email at hr@openspace.org.

 Put your passion for Open Space to work!

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT INTERN 

2026 COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Administration Department 

15 - 25 hours per week 

$16.90 - $18.84 per hour – Bachelor’s program

$19.56 – $21.74 per hour – Master’s program 

 

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team! 


ABOUT THE POSITION

The City of Gilroy is recruiting an undergraduate or graduate-level City Emergency Management College Summer Intern for the summer of 2026. This internship will provide a significant opportunity to gain experience and exposure and accumulate skills that are used daily in city government emergency management programs that make substantial impacts to the community. The Emergency Management Team works year-round to ensure that community is prepared for disasters through planning, training, outreach, and coordination with local and regional partners. Joining our team means contributing to meaningful work that directly supports community reliance and preparedness. 

Working under the supervision of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Coordinator, the Emergency Management Intern will assist with planning, preparedness, outreach, and administrative functions that support OEM programs and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) readiness. Work includes both office-based and field support activities. 

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 

The Emergency Operations Division is a part of the Administration Department. This is a close-knit group with a strong sense of camaraderie, with a passion to serve Gilroy, and are invested in the community’s future and success. We leverage our individual experience and expertise for collaborative problem solving and we enjoy discussing, learning, and planning new programs and how they can be strategically implemented. You will work in an environment that is energizing and multifaceted and where you will be challenged daily. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful public safety initiatives while building valuable, career launching experience! 

 

VOLUNTEER WORK SCHEDULE 

Internships can start as early as May 26, 2026 and end as late as September 30, 2026. This paid internship is offered at 15 - 25 hours per week with flexible scheduling. The assigned manager will work with the Intern to identify a work schedule during standard work hours as described below. The office start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally Monday – Friday between 8:00am – 5:00pm. 

 

 

WHAT YOU’LL DO: 

• Assist with reviewing and updating emergency planes, annexes, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) 
• Support EOC readiness activities, including equipment checks, document organization, and checklist updates
• Maintain resource lists, contact databases, and situational awareness tools
• Assist with Emergency Management Volunteer coordination and management 
• Help develop outreach materials and coordinate community education events 

 

POTENTIAL PROJECTS: 

• Emergency Volunteer Center planning
• Commodity Point of Distribution (POD) planning
• EOC readiness improvement initiatives
• Community preparedness and resilience programs

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Economic Development Department 

15 - 25 hours per week 

$19.56 – $21.74 per hour – Master’s program 

 

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team! 

ABOUT THE POSITION

The City of Gilroy is recruiting for a graduate degree level Economic Development College Summer Intern for the summer of 2026. If you’re a mission-driven graduate student or recent Masters graduate and are ready to apply advanced economic analysis to real-world community impact, then this opportunity is for you. This internship offers a rigorous, project-based experience designed specifically for Master’s-level candidates who want to contribute meaningfully to local and regional economic growth. This is not a passive observational role — you will be embedded in active initiatives, supporting strategic projects that influence business development, community vitality, and long-term economic resilience.

Over the course of the summer internship, you will support high impact economic development projects that require analytical depth, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills. This opportunity is ideal for graduate students or recent graduates in Economics, Public Policy, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business or related fields of study who are eager to translate academic training into measurable community outcomes. By the end of this internship, you will walk away with practical, resume-enhancing experience that bridges graduate-level academics and professional economic development practice positioning you competitively for careers in economic development, public policy, municipal government, consulting, or community development! 

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 
The Economic Development team is a small, but might group that consists of a Director and Manager dedicated to strengthening and diversifying the local economy in Gilroy. The team focuses on business attraction, retention, expansion, and strategic partnerships that enhance the city’s economic vitality. Working closely with internal departments, community stakeholders, and regional partners, the team plays a central role in shaping initiatives that support sustainable growth. As an intern, you will work directly alongside leadership, gaining insight into how economic development strategy is crafted and executed at the municipal level.

 

WORK SCHEDULE 
Internships can start as early as May 26, 2026, and end as late as September 30, 2026. This paid internship is offered at 15 - 25 hours per week with flexible scheduling. The office start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally Monday – Friday between 8:00am – 5:00pm. 

 

WHAT YOU WILL DO: 

• Conduct economic, demographic, and market data analysis 
• Research industry trends, business climate conditions, and development opportunities 
• Support business program development and evaluation 
• Lease tracking and economic data management
• Support community engagement and outreach initiatives
• Project coordination and administrative support
• Assist with special strategic initiatives as assigned 

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN & GAIN: 

• Direct experience interpreting and applying economic and demographic data to inform business attraction and retention strategies 
• Insight into how public-facing business programs are developed, implemented, and evaluated
• Exposure to cross-departmental and community collaboration 
• Project coordination and management experience within a city government environment 

HUMAN RESOURCES COLLEGE SUMMER INTERNSHIP

Human Resources & Risk Management Department

15 – 25 hours per week 

$16.90 – $18.84 per hour

 

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. 


ABOUT THE POSITION

If you are looking to gain hands-on experience while making a difference in the community, the City of Gilroy is currently recruiting for a motivated and detail-oriented college summer intern to work in the Human Resources and Risk Management Department. 

Throughout the internship, you will gain exposure to employee benefits and incentive programs, recruitment and hiring processes, payroll administration, labor agreements, HR compliance, and policy development. You’ll build practical, real-world HR experience in a fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive workplace. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience with NeoGov, a leading applicant tracking system used by public agencies nationwide, as well as Tyler Munis HRIS and payroll systems. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply your creativity and organizational skills by assisting with the development of monthly HR newsletters and wellness initiatives.

This internship is ideal for students eager to expand their professional skill set, contribute meaningful work, and gain valuable insight into the operations of municipal government. Apply today to kickstart your Human Resources career! 

 

ABOUT THE TEAM 

The Human Resources Department collaborates with all departments across the City of Gilroy, giving interns a unique opportunity to engage in city-wide projects, benefits coordination, employee relations, and more. You’ll receive mentorship and work experience that provide a deeper understanding of public service and local government policies. Plus, you’ll gain valuable networking opportunities and professional development support that will set you up for future career success. The City of Gilroy is committed to fostering an environment of learning and growth, ensuring you feel supported not just within HR, but across the entire organization. 

 

WORK SCHEDULE 

This internship can start as early as May 26, 2026, and end as late as September 30, 2026. This paid internship is offered at 15 – 25 hours per week with flexible scheduling. 

The official start and end date of the internship will be determined at the time of hire. Work hours are generally Monday – Friday between 8:00am – 5:00pm.

 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Provide support for recruitment activities, including job postings and interview coordination.
• Assist in supporting the preparation of the City’s annual Health Fair and wellness initiatives.
• Assist with tasks related to the Employee Appreciation Committee.
• Assist with employee wellness newsletter and other activities.
• Prepare and/or update employee safety program materials.

The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) Ranger is a challenging and adventurous generalist position offering a wide variety of responsibilities and opportunities to exercise independent judgement while working on Midpen preserves. Rangers serve a unique role as stewards of the open space by regularly interacting with the community to provide visitors information, natural resource education, interpretive services, enforcement of pertinent regulations, and performing limited maintenance and resource management work on Midpen properties and facilities. Rangers patrol on foot, in all-terrain vehicles, on motorcycles, and in four-wheel drive patrol trucks while enforcing Midpen land use regulations and applicable laws.  Rangers ensure safe public use of preserves, while also responding to emergency calls including medical aids and wildland fires.

About the Position:

The start date for these positions is early-December 2026. For additional information, see the Ranger Recruit and Ranger specifications on our job description page at OpenSpace.org.

There are two types of Ranger Assignments:

1. Ranger with a primary assignment - Generally works at a primary reporting location with regularly occurring consecutive days off.
2. Ranger with a flexible assignment - Will be assigned initially to a primary reporting location with regularly occurring consecutive days off, however Rangers with a flexible assignment may work a varied schedule across multiple reporting locations based on operational needs. They may be assigned to cover both planned and unplanned shift vacancies, including extended leaves of absence and promotional vacancies. During these assignments, rangers with a flexible assignment may be required to report to alternate field offices and/or adjust regular days off.

The Ranger Recruit is a training-level position for individuals who do not possess a Ranger Academy certificate or equivalent, and valid PC 832 certificate.  Upon commencement of employment, new Ranger Recruits will participate in pre-academy instruction on the duties of a District Ranger, receive orientation to District lands and operations and complete additional required training.  Upon completion of pre-academy instruction, new Ranger Recruits will participate in a district approved Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy based out of the South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Center in San Jose, CA located on Bailey Avenue with the nearest cross street on Santa Teresa Avenue.  The 14-week long academy begins in January 2027 and will include California Penal Code 832 training.  The academy’s full course and tuition are paid for by Midpen. Upon successful completion of the academy and the District’s required robust 12-week Field Training Program and final review by the Chief Ranger, a Ranger Recruit may be appointed as a probationary Ranger.

The Ranger is a challenging and adventurous journey level position offering a wide variety of responsibilities and opportunities to exercise independent judgement while working on Midpen preserves.  Upon commencement of employment, new Rangers will participate in a robust 12-week Field Training Program. 

About Midpen: Midpen helps plants, animals and people thrive throughout the greater Santa Cruz Mountains region by preserving a greenbelt of more than 70,000 acres of public open space with 250 miles of trails in 27 extraordinary preserves, permanently protected for natural resource conservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Midpen is a public agency with a focused mission that guides our work, and where every employee makes an impact.  If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the legacy of open space protection, natural resource restoration and outdoor recreation, working with an incredible team of like-minded colleagues, we invite you to apply for this position!  At Midpen, we believe open space is for all. Our public lands are shared spaces provided for the community by the community. All people, regardless of background, deserve respect, dignity, safety, and a sense of belonging. Midpen welcomes all people to enjoy the public open space preserves we hold in trust, supporting the mental, physical, and social well-being of our region.

 

What does a District Ranger do?  District Rangers are generalists who perform a wide variety of functions. A brief list of day-to-day activities follows:

 

• Midpen Rangers are sworn peace officers responsible for patrolling District Preserves and enforcing the District's regulations and pertinent local, State, and Federal laws on District Preserves. Patrol may be by 4x4 truck, foot, UTV, motorcycle, or mountain bike.  
• Respond to medical emergencies, wildland fires on Midpen lands, and search and rescue incidents.
• Help maintain the preserves by performing light maintenance tasks and resource management assignments.
• Engage the public through interpretive activities and community outreach.
• Shift schedules include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

 

Positions will be assigned to one of the following District offices:

• South Area Office (SAO) – Campbell (Address: 240 Cristich Lane, Campbell, CA 95008)
• Foothills Field Office – Cupertino (Address: 501 Rancho San Antonio Drive, Cupertino, CA 95014)
• Skyline Field Office (SFO) – La Honda (Address: 21150 Skyline Blvd., La Honda, CA 94020) MAP
• Coastal Area Outpost (CAO) – La Honda (Address: 5710 La Honda Road, San Gregorio, CA  94074)

 

A Few Reasons Why You May Love This Job

• Collaborative work that directly supports Midpen’s mission to protect and restore the natural environment
• You’ll be part of a talented and dynamic team whose work contributes to providing nature’s benefits to everyone
• Excellent employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement pension through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
• Midpen offers a housing program with reduced rental rates for staff subject to after-hours call outs to support the protection and maintenance of Midpen lands.

 

Basic Job Requirements: Must have the ability to enforce pertinent laws and regulations; administer first aid and CPR; demonstrate and maintain the physical fitness and mobility to meet District fitness standards, and to work in the field; strength, stamina, and mobility to respond to emergency situations to provide emergency medical services, perform fire suppression, and to gain control of a situation for self-defense or in defense of others; operate and maintain various power tools and equipment; operate emergency patrol vehicles and two-way radios; communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing. Pre-employment and annual fitness test required consisting of walking 2 miles while carrying a 25lb pack in 30 minutes or less.

 

Possess the aptitude and demonstrated interest in park/open space work, philosophy, and principles; willingness to perform law enforcement duties; aptitude for interpretive and public relations work; emotional maturity; dependability; punctuality; tact and diplomacy; poise and self-confidence; sensitivity to needs and attitudes of others; neatness and courtesy.   

 

Peace Officer Standards for Rangers: Ability to satisfy the selection standards for peace officers in California as set forth in Government Code Sections 1029, 1030 and 1031, and by the District. Ranger Recruits must complete Midpen’s requirements for training of Peace Officers by attending and successfully completing a Midpen approved law enforcement academy upon hire, unless they have recently successfully passed an equivalent academy, and possess a California Penal Code 832 certificate. 

 

Education & Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

 

Ranger Recruit

• Equivalent to an Associate degree from an accredited college or university and one (1) year of experience working in visitor/customer service or an equivalent position that includes interacting with the public.  Education and/or experience in law enforcement, resource management, natural sciences, park management, wildland firefighting, or a related field is highly desirable. 

 

• Certificates and Licenses: A valid California Class C driver’s license (or ability to obtain one upon appointment for candidates possessing an out of state license).

 

Ranger

• Meet all qualifications for Ranger Recruit, plus:

 

• Certificates and Licenses:  Current possession of a District approved Law Enforcement Training certification and a valid California 832 certificate for appointment as a peace officer, and ability to obtain the following certificates prior to completion of the employment probationary period: completion of the District’s Field Training Program, valid professional rescuer CPR certificate and Medical First Responder or equivalent; a Midpen approved Fire Suppression Training certificate; certification in the Incident Command System courses as specified under the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

Working Conditions: Rangers work cohesively with local law enforcement, fire agencies and other adjoining land agencies. Rangers typically work alone and self-initiate their day-to-day patrols. Work conditions require rangers to work weekends, nights, and holidays in all weather conditions.  Most work is outdoors within Midpen’s open space lands with exposure to inclement weather conditions. This requires the ability to patrol on foot, off trail, and in rugged terrain.  Also requires the ability to perform all related emergency services and light maintenance and construction work on Midpen lands. District Rangers interact daily with a diverse Bay Area community to provide safe access for all visitors.

 

How to Apply:  

Apply online at CalOpps.org.   The deadline to apply is Sunday, April 5, 2026

(To avoid missing email communication about this recruitment, add mpropenspace@calopps.org to your contacts or list of safe senders.)

 

The following application items are required to be considered*:

1. Fully completed CalOpps employment application 

2. Resume 

3. Supplemental question responses

(A cover letter is highly desirable).

*Incomplete CalOpps employment applications, or applications without the required application items listed here, will not be considered for the position.

 

INTERVIEW DATES & HIRING PROCESS:

First interviews (In-Person; Administrative Office – Los Altos):  Mon, April 27th, Tues, April 28th and Wed, April 29th (Candidates will be scheduled on one of three days)

Skills assessment (In-Person; Foothills Field Office - Cupertino): Friday, May 8, 2026

Final interviews (In-Person; Administrative Office – Los Altos): Thursday, May 21, 2026, and Friday, May 22, 2026 (Candidates will be scheduled on one of two days)

 

IMPORTANT: Candidates selected to advance after completing the interview process will be required to successfully complete the Peace Officer Standards & Training Personal History Statement, as well as an in-depth background investigation, fitness testing, DOJ and FBI fingerprinting, psychological evaluation, pre-employment physical to include drug testing. It is recommended to review the 27-page Personal History Statement and the required documents on the POST website at www.post.ca.gov/forms.aspx. Select "Background/Hiring" and form 2-251, Personal History Statement for details on the information and certificates you will be required to provide.

 

If more candidates successfully complete the recruitment and background process than we have available positions to fill, these candidates may be brought on at a later date as vacancies occur.  

 

The academy is held at the South Bay Regional Public Safety Training campus in South San Jose.  To successfully complete the academy, recruits must pass the physical agility test. Information about this test is available at Pre-Employment Testing and Training - The Academy.   The academy also offers optional practice sessions for a small fee; available dates are listed on the web site. Attending a practice session is strongly recommended, as it allows potential candidates to gauge their ability to pass the physical agility test by the end of the academy.

 

Important for applicants outside the San Francisco Bay Area: Compensation in California often reflects the region’s significantly higher cost of living. Before applying, and if you haven't done so already, we strongly encourage you to assess whether relocation is practical for you. Please research housing costs, relocation expenses, and commute times to the different field offices for this position.

 

Midpen reserves the right to limit or deny off-duty employment or business ownership which creates a conflict of interest or an incompatibility with District employment. Additional information can be found in the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Section 4.13 Off-Duty Employment and Business Ownership.

 

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation by contacting the Human Resources department at 650-691-1200.

Put your passion for Open Space to work!