Eric Stafford
Orondo,WA
Summary
Park Ranger and public safety professional with more than six years of Washington State Service, including commissioned law enforcement experience with Washington State Parks and the Washington State Patrol. Experienced in emergency response, incident management, investigations, regulatory compliance, staff supervision, public engagement, and facility operations. Known for sound judgment, professionalism, strong communication skills, and the ability to effectively manage complex situations while maintaining a high level of service to the public. Proven ability to work independently, coordinate with partner agencies, supervise staff and volunteers, and adapt to a wide range of operational and public safety responsibilities.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Park Ranger 2
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
Orondo, Washington
02.2026 - Current
- Returned to Washington State Parks in February 2026 and currently serve as the lead Park Ranger at Daroga State Park. Responsibilities include employee supervision, hiring and onboarding seasonal staff, incident response, investigations, facility operations, grounds maintenance oversight, project coordination, and visitor services.
- In addition to managing day-to-day operations at Daroga, regularly assist with operations and special projects throughout the Wenatchee Valley Area park system, including Beebe Bridge, Lincoln Rock, Wenatchee Confluence, Squilchuck, and Lake Wenatchee State Parks.
Lateral Trooper
Washington State Patrol
Kennewick, Washington
08.2025 - 02.2026
- Completed the Washington State Patrol Lateral Academy and served as a commissioned law enforcement officer. Responded to collisions and emergencies, conducted investigations, prepared reports, and worked directly with the public in a fast-paced public safety environment.
Park Ranger 2
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
Multiple Locations, WA
04.2020 - 08.2025
- Managed a broad range of park operations including visitor safety, law enforcement support, emergency incidents, campground and facility management, maintenance coordination, volunteer oversight, public outreach, natural resource stewardship, administrative documentation, and operational planning.
- Worked in Olympic Peninsula Area and Wenatchee Valley Area Parks systems
Resource Management Steward
Americorps / Northwest Youth Corps / U.S.F.S
Granite Falls, Washington
05.2019 - 09.2019
- Supported natural resource projects, trail and recreation site improvements, public land stewardship efforts, and field operations while working alongside federal land management professionals.
Bartender Shift Manager
Hollywood Tavern
Woodinville, WA
01.2016 - 05.2019
- Delivered customer service in hospitality and high-volume operations, overseeing staff and engaging directly with patrons.
Education
Wilderness Certification Program (Including Advanced) - Wilderness Survival Skills
Alderleaf Wilderness College
Monroe, WA06-2018
Some College (No Degree) - Geography
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WASkills
- Investigations
- Policy Compliance
- Asset Management
- Customer Service
- Leadership
- Employee Development/Coaching
- Conflict Management and Resolution
- Verbal Communication Skills
- Written Communication Skills
Certification
- Washington State Peace Officer Certification (CJTC)
- CPR/Basic First Aid (Child & Adult)
Timeline
Park Ranger 2
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
02.2026 - Current
Lateral Trooper
Washington State Patrol
08.2025 - 02.2026
Park Ranger 2
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
04.2020 - 08.2025
Resource Management Steward
Americorps / Northwest Youth Corps / U.S.F.S
05.2019 - 09.2019
Bartender Shift Manager
Hollywood Tavern
01.2016 - 05.2019
Wilderness Certification Program (Including Advanced) - Wilderness Survival Skills
Alderleaf Wilderness College
Some College (No Degree) - Geography
Western Washington University