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Assistant Forest Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Forest Ranger information

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How much do assistant forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant forest ranger in California is $20.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $23.03 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 is the average salary for an Assistant Forest Ranger?

The average salary for an Assistant Forest Ranger varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 annually. In some regions, additional certifications or seasonal work can influence pay rates, and the role often involves outdoor work and environmental management tasks.

What is an assistant forest ranger?

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.

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 you become a assistant forest ranger?

To become an assistant forest ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of conservation practices, physical fitness, and sometimes passing written exams or interviews; certifications in first aid or firefighting can also be beneficial.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs in California? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in California? For Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Forest Ranger jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Forest Ranger jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Forest Ranger job openings:
Assistant Forest Ranger jobs near you

Field Leader - Angeles National Forest Restoration Corps

Career Site

Arcadia, CA

$850/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Conservation Corps - 2026 Western Corps Angeles National Forest Restoration Team

Project Leader: Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District

Position Summary

Conservation Begins Here.

Are you ready to lead a high impact conservation project, mentor emerging conservationists, and work closely with U.S. Forest Service partners to protect sensitive postfire landscapes? Join the Student Conservation Association (SCA) as the Project Leader for our Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team - a role that blends leadership, logistics, technical fieldwork, and meaningful ecological restoration.

You'll guide a 4person crew through the installation of approximately 700 feet of metal postandcable OHV barriers, helping prevent illegal offhighway vehicle (OHV) access and supporting long-term habitat recovery in one of the most heavily impacted regions of the Angeles National Forest.

Schedule

Position Dates: 9/13/2026 - 11/25/2026

Leader Preseason: 9/13/2026 - 9/17/2026

Crew Member Training:

  • Crew Member Training: 9/14 - 9/17
  • Wilderness First Aid: 9/18 - 9/19
  • Conservation Work Skills: 9/20 - 9/24

Field Season: 9/28/2026 - 11/19/2026

Crew Members Depart: 11/21/2026

Leader Postseason Wrap Up: 11/23/2026 - 11/25/2026

Total Term: 11 weeks

Location

Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District

Primary project sites are located within the Drinkwater Flat OHV Area and surrounding postfire landscapes.

Crew camping will be based at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable front country site.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

These are the essential functions of the role:

Leadership & Crew Management

  • Supervise, mentor, and support a crew of 3 Crew Members
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and safetyfocused crew culture
  • Facilitate daily check-ins, debriefs, and conflict resolution
  • Lead training on tool use, safety, field protocols, and project expectations

Project Implementation

  • Coordinate daily with U.S. Forest Service staff
  • Install metal postandcable barriers according to partner specifications
  • Oversee digging post holes, mixing/pouring cement, setting posts, and tensioning cable
  • Manage material staging, tool inventory, and equipment maintenance
  • Ensure accurate GPS mapping and documentation of installed barriers

Logistics & Administration

  • Develop weekly schedules and work plans
  • Conduct vehicle inspections, grocery planning, and camp logistics
  • Maintain daily and weekly work logs, before/after photos, and partner reports
  • Uphold SCA risk management protocols, including twice daily checkins
  • Complete endofseason reporting and project wrap up

Marginal Duties

These tasks support the role but are not essential functions:

  • Support budget tracking and purchasing
  • Coordinate with other SCA teams or partners as needed
  • Assist with emergency response or incident reporting
  • Drive crew vehicle and trailer

Required Qualifications

  • Must be 21 or older by the start date
  • Legal work authorization in the U.S.
  • Valid driver's license for 3+ years and MVR that meets SCA standards
  • Experience leading teams in outdoor, conservation, or service settings
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Perform manual labor for up to 10 hours/day, lift 40+ lbs, and hike 3-5 miles/day
  • Work in challenging outdoor conditions, including:High heat (90-105F),Santa Ana winds, dust, cement exposure, and rocky soils
  • Live and work in a communal, multigendered environment
  • Commitment to SCA's safety, equity, and inclusion values

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous SCA leadership experience or similar conservation leadership role
  • Experience with construction, fencing, trail work, or restoration projects
  • Familiarity with GPS mapping
  • Experience coordinating with agency partners
  • Wilderness First Responder or higher (WFR provided as part of training program)
  • Trailer towing experience

Hours

This crew follows a Monday-Thursday, 10hour/day schedule during the field season.

Preseason and postseason schedules vary based on planning, partner meetings, and derig needs.

Living Accommodations

The crew will camp for the duration of the program, primarily at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable site. Amenities may include:

  • Restrooms
  • Potable water
  • Showers (availability varies)

Expect limited access to electricity and cell service.

SCA provides group gear (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.); leaders bring personal items (sleeping bag, pad, clothing, mess kit).

A crew vehicle and trailer are provided for transportation and storage.

Compensation

  • $850 weekly living allowance (leader rate)
  • $1,000 travel allowance ( paid in first paycheck, paid in last paycheck)
  • Meals provided during fieldwork
  • $1000 Retention Bonus (for eligible returning leaders)
  • $200 Uniform Credit (for eligible returning leaders)
  • All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

A personal vehicle is not required for this position. Project Leaders are responsible for the SCAissued crew vehicle, including picking it up from the SCA program hub at the start of the season, ensuring it is properly maintained throughout the program, and returning it to the hub at the end of the season.

Leaders may bring a personal vehicle for offtime use; however, doing so is not recommended, as the leader is expected to prioritize the safe operation, transport, and daily readiness of the SCA crew vehicle. SCA is not responsible for fuel, parking, maintenance, or security of personal vehicles.

Additional Benefits

  • Wilderness First Responder certification
  • Conservation Work Skills training
  • Defensive driver training and trailer training
  • Uniform package including daypack, work shirts, water bladder, and more
  • Group gear provided (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.)

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SCA is committed to a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect, and supports personal and professional growth for all participants.

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