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Assistant Forest Ranger Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

PARK RANGER

Camp Verde, AZ · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

Forestry/Wildland Fire/Natural Resources ARIZONA STATE PARKS AND TRAILS Connecting people with the ... The purpose of the Park Ranger position at Rockin' River Park is to assist in the operation of the ...

Assistant Forest Ranger information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do assistant forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant forest ranger in Arizona is $19.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Assistant Forest Rangers face during their fieldwork?

Assistant Forest Rangers often work in remote, outdoor environments where weather conditions and terrain can be unpredictable. They may face challenges such as navigating difficult landscapes, responding to emergencies like wildfires or injured hikers, and managing encounters with wildlife. Additionally, balancing conservation efforts with public access and recreation requires clear communication and problem-solving skills. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as rangers regularly collaborate with colleagues, local communities, and other agencies.

What are Assistant Forest Rangers?

Assistant Forest Rangers are entry-level professionals who support the management and protection of forests, parks, and natural resources. Their responsibilities often include assisting in enforcing regulations, maintaining trails and facilities, educating the public, and supporting conservation efforts. They work under the supervision of senior forest rangers and may also help with fire prevention, wildlife monitoring, and emergency response. This role is essential for maintaining the health and safety of public lands and ensuring that natural habitats are preserved for future generations.

How hard is it to become an Assistant Forest Ranger?

Becoming an Assistant Forest Ranger typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience, and passing written and physical exams. Candidates often need knowledge of forestry, conservation, and law enforcement, along with certifications such as CPR or first aid; the process can be competitive and may take several months to complete.

What is an assistant park ranger?

An assistant park ranger is a entry-level position in park management responsible for supporting park rangers in enforcing regulations, assisting visitors, and maintaining park facilities. The role often requires knowledge of environmental policies, good communication skills, and sometimes certification in first aid or law enforcement procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Forest Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Forest Ranger, you need knowledge of forestry management, environmental science, and wildlife conservation, often supported by a relevant degree or field experience. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, and basic firefighting or first aid certifications are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help in educating the public, coordinating with agencies, and responding to emergencies. These competencies ensure effective stewardship of natural resources and public safety in diverse outdoor environments.

What is the difference between Assistant Forest Ranger vs Forest Guard?

AspectAssistant Forest RangerForest Guard
Required CredentialsDiploma or degree in forestry or related fieldSecondary education or equivalent, sometimes with basic forestry training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation projectsPatrolling forests, preventing illegal activities, and assisting in conservation efforts
Employer & IndustryGovernment forestry departments, wildlife agenciesForest departments, forest protection agencies
Common Search & ComparisonAssistant Forest Ranger vs Forest Guard

The Assistant Forest Ranger typically holds a higher qualification and performs supervisory and administrative duties in forestry and wildlife conservation. In contrast, the Forest Guard primarily focuses on patrolling and protecting forest areas. Both roles are essential for forest management but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

How do I become a park ranger with no experience?

To become an assistant forest ranger with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills such as outdoor survival, communication, and basic conservation knowledge. Volunteering, completing relevant certifications like CPR or first aid, and pursuing a degree in environmental science or natural resource management can improve your chances. Entry-level positions often require a valid driver's license and physical fitness tests.

What is an assistant ranger?

An assistant forest ranger is a trained professional who supports forest rangers in managing and protecting natural resources, enforcing regulations, and assisting with conservation efforts. They often perform patrols, monitor wildlife, and may require certifications in forestry or environmental science. The role typically involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and may include administrative tasks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona? For Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in Arizona are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forest Ranger job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,627 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
PARK RANGER

$17.50 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


State Of Arizona rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states


Job description

PARK RANGER

Apply now Job No: 542422
Work Type: Full-time
Location: CAMP VERDE
Categories: Forestry/Wildland Fire/Natural Resources

ARIZONA STATE PARKS AND TRAILS Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.
Arizona State Parks and Trails is the leader in sustainable outdoor recreation for current and future generations.
To learn more about Arizona State Parks and Trails, visit our web site at azstateparks.com.
Arizona State Parks and Trails protect and preserves more than 30 state parks and natural areas. The agency also includes the statewide trails program, outdoor-related grants program, the State Historic Preservation Office, as well as the Off-Highway Vehicle Program, and more. With parks located across the state, the agency strives to make outdoor recreation accessible and available to everyone.
PARK RANGER
ROCKIN' RIVER RANCH STATE PARK
*must be able to work evenings, weekends and holidays*
Job Location:
Address: 4513 S. Salt Mine Rd, Camp Verde, AZ  86322
Posting Details:
Salary: $17.50 - $19.00 / per hour 
Grade: 16
Closing Date: July 30, 2026
Job Summary:

The purpose of the Park Ranger position at Rockin' River Park is to assist in the operation of the park.Duties include, but are not limited to:

Custodial, interpretive visitor services/contact, collect entrance fees and gift shop sales using point of sales / reservation system, complete administrative duties, such as answering phones, compiling data, conducting research, working with volunteers and other groups &/ organizations, assist with social media, assist Park Manager with implementation and coordination of special events, purchase maintenance supplies and conducting supply and gift shop inventories.

Job Duties:

- Visitor contact: tend visitor center, greet visitors, assign tasks to volunteers, collect visitor fees, gift shop sales, permit fees, etc. Provide visitors with other tourist information: distribute literature, answer phones, handle two-way radio communication and data entry. 

- Custodial maintenance of grounds/facilities: daily cleaning of public rest rooms visitor center and gift shop, stock rest rooms with paper supplies, clean picnic tables, cyclical painting of buildings, picnic tables, trash and recycling barrels, signs; collect trash from barrel receptacles throughout the park and haul to dumpster. Landscaping,Trim trees and shrubs; invasive species management, weedwacking, mowing, transplant for landscaping, irrigate trees and shrubs, apply fertilizer/herbicides; rake gravel, pick up liter in park, along roads and on all park grounds, maintain demonstration garden.
- Park security: Patrol park to ensure security of visitors and property. Secure compliance with rules by educating violators, when possible, or issuing warnings. Assist with first-aid response to illnesses and injuries. Handle two-way radio communications related to law enforcement activity or emergencies of any type. Complete incident reports as needed.
- Conducts park maintenance and repairs of facilities, historic structures and equipment; repair/replace broken or faulty irrigation lines; perform minor electrical repairs, doors, signs, locks, fences, gates, picnic tables, etc. Clean, lubricate and adjust and repair vehicles and tools (power and manual). Repair air-conditioning units water heaters, office equipment etc. Maintain and make sure the irrigation lines and the water well pump are operating efficiently and effectively.
- Administration: maintain/input personal time sheets/hours; vehicle and equipment logs and supply inventories. On computer, complete daily attendance and revenue records; revenue recaps; make revenue deposits; accounts payable ledgers; revolving fund ledgers, and reimbursement requests and completes volunteer records/log.
- Interpretation: Provides interpretation to the public and at special events; lead guided hikes, conducts research oversees garden activities and youth programming; acts as liaison with local schools, promotes special events and workshops.

- Other duties as assigned as related to the position.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:
Basic preservation on historic buildings and structures, parks and recreation, construction, plumbing, electric and carpentry volunteer coordination both agency and park rules and regulations.
basic use of hand and power tools.
landscaping and gardening and irrigation lines / installation and maintaining.
First Aid and CPR and public safety techniques and practices.
computer usage (ie. Microsoft Office-Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and willing to learn how to use the web-based cash register system Itinio).
Skill in:
Skills in interpersonal relationships.
Skills of basic plumbing, electrical and carpentry.
Skills in basic grounds maintenance, landscaping, maintaining a garden and landscaping.
Skills in operating and servicing automotive and small motors.
Skills in effective public contact.
Skills in written and oral communication.
Skills in restroom maintenance and cleaning.
Skill in hand an power tools.

Ability to:
handling visitors complaints, emergency situations and other stressful work environment and large groups of people, while maintaining a courteous and professional demeanor.
Ability to uniformly and consistently interpret and enforce agency and park rules and regulations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both written and oral.
Ability to conduct and participate in a wide variety of resource management programs.
Ability to work independently on work assignments as necessary.
Ability to work some nights, weekends and holidays.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Arizona drivers license.
Ability to operate park equipment and power tools safely and effectively.
Ability to work in extreme heat.
Ability to cross-train at other regional state parks, when necessary.

Selective Preference(s):

Two years of experience equivalent to a Park Ranger Specialist; OR three years of work experience in customer service, library or museum work; OR a Bachelor's degree in Park Management, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field. Any combination of training and experience that meet knowledge, skills, and abilities may be substituted.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

- Must obtain, possess and maintain a current Arizona Driver's license appropriate to assignment.
- May require certification of First aid and CPR.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package including:
Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans
10 paid holidays per year
Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly
Deferred compensation plan
Wellness plans
Parental Leave - Up to 12 weeks per year pid leave for newborns or newly placed foster/adopted child.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Retirement:

Eligible for Arizona State Retirement System pension. Enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment for newly hired State of Arizona employees.

Contact Us:

Recruitmenthr@azstateparks.gov
The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (480) 604 -7331. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.


Having trouble applying for this position?
Email HRIShelpdesk@azdoa.gov or call (602) 542-4700 for assistance.

Advertised: 17 Jul 2026 US Mountain Standard Time
Applications close: 30 Jul 2026 US Mountain Standard Time

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About State of Arizona

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Arizona is not a conventional company, but the governmental structure presiding over the U.S. state of Arizona, headquartered in Phoenix, AZ. The State of Arizona operates within the industry of government administration and public services across various sectors including education, health, public safety, transportation, and economic services. These services are aimed to ensure the security, prosperity, and well-being of the Arizona citizens and communities. Founded on February 14, 1912, when Arizona became the 48th state to join the Union, the State of Arizona is committed to providing people-centric, efficient, and effective government. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for all Arizonans by providing a secure environment and advancing the state's economy.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

Year founded

1912