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Assistant Forest Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger Seasonal

Littleton, CO · On-site

$17.05 - $21.70/hr

... assist users with permits and special events. In addition, this position will work in wildlife and ... Create, enhance, restore, and manage wetland, grassland, and riparian forest wildlife habitats ...

$15.10 - $18.98/hr

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands Division, is recruiting to fill a Seasonal Full Time (26 Weeks) Assistant Park Ranger position, located at Lamoine ...

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Assistant Forest Ranger information

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How much do assistant forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant forest ranger in the United States is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

More about Assistant Forest Ranger jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Forest Ranger jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Forest Ranger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Forest Ranger jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Forest Ranger jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forest Ranger job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 32% Physical, 63% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,597 per year, or $21 per hour.
Summer 2026 Seasonal Ranger II - Boston Harbor Islands State Park

Summer 2026 Seasonal Ranger II - Boston Harbor Islands State Park

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Hingham, MA

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

POSITION INFORMATION:
Position Title: Seasonal Ranger II
Location: Boston Harbor Islands (reports daily to 30 Shipyard Drive, Hingham)
Start Date:  ASAP
End Date:  10/24/26
Number of openings: 1

Please note, if you are selected for this position and will be working less than 90 days, the position will automatically revert to a short-term position. Our short-term positions are not part of the salary scale that is advertised within this job posting.  Should this position revert to a short-term seasonal position (less than 90 days), your salary rate will be discussed with you during the interview phase of the process.

Salary range compensation by hours worked is determined by several factors, including experience, seniority, the agency's budget, and the nature of the role (e.g., short-term contract vs. full-time position). For union-represented roles, compensation will follow the applicable bargaining unit salary schedule rules and regulations

Who We Are: 
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation's mission is to protect, promote and enhance our commonwealth of natural, cultural and recreational resources for the wellbeing of all. The DCR is steward to one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation which includes more than 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, trails, golf courses and parkways.DCR strives to be an exemplary leader in conservation and recreation. DCR's staff is passionate, dedicated, and continuously employs best practices that are informed by expertise, and creates a sense of place through carrying out the mission.

Job Opening:

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for Seasonal Ranger II - Boston Harbor Islands

Salaries are based upon full-time/40 hours worked per week. This position may require working weekends and/or holidays. Schedules/Days off are at the discretion of the Supervisor.

The Ranger II - Boston Harbor Islands will carry out bureau related activities in the Islands District, patrol assigned park(s) to promote compliance with regulations, respond to incidents, provide visitor information, provide for the safety of visitors and protection of DCR's cultural and natural resources, and all other related duties to carry out the mission or the Bureau of Ranger Services. Supervise Ranger I staff assigned to the Islands District.

 DUTIES:

-Conduct patrols effectively utilizing techniques and available resources, ensure visitor compliance to applicable laws and regulations, provide visitor and customer service, assess facility resources, respond to medical incidents and provide first aid, and other public services as required. 

-Supervise the activities of rangers within the Islands District and coordinate those activities with Park Supervisors and the Regional Ranger.

-Provide on the job training and orientation for Rangers assigned to DCR, South Region, and Islands District.

-Respond to incidents, and act as a liaison to Law Enforcement

-Assist in reviewing and maintenance of incident records, violations of rules and regulations, entering them into a central database.

-Conducts investigations of incidents on behalf of the department, based on policy and assignment.

-Procure equipment, materials, and maintain an inventory and the condition of issued equipment.

-Complete records, reports, files, and logs.

-Attend seminars, workshops, training sessions, etc..., in order to maintain proficiencies.

-Participate in search and rescue operations in accordance with agency policy, and assist in the search function as a team leader, search manager, or other member of the overhead team.

-Assist, as needed, in the prevention, detection, and suppression of wildland fires.

-Provide informal and formal information/educational programs, demonstrations, and materials for schools and civic groups as requested, in areas such as Ranger programs, park activities and services, outdoor skills, natural and cultural history, and search and rescue.

-Review special events permit requests and assist in events planning within the Islands District.

-Occasionally assist at statewide incidents or functions

-Assists in hiring process for Ranger Positions

-Assists in the training of personnel within the Bureau of Ranger Services and personnel outside of the ranger program in Bureau related areas.

-Conduct statewide and Bureau duties as assigned

-Administer special Bureau programs as assigned.

-Occasionally assist maintenance staff when assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE:

-Ability to speak clearly and communicate effectively to the public.

-Ability to read, understand, interpret, and explain laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines.

-Knowledge of patrol and enforcement techniques

-Ability to gather information by examining records and documents and through observing and interviewing individuals.

-Ability to read and interpret such documents as charts and maps

-Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential information

-Ability to make decisions and act quickly in emergency and dangerous situations

-Ability to navigate various terrains under extremely variable weather conditions by orientation with map and compass

-Physical stamina and endurance

-Knowledge of natural and cultural interpretation

-Knowledge of the principles and practices of public relations

-Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of supervision

-Knowledge of the types and applications of emergency medical procedures

-Participates in meetings and projects of the Boston Harbor Islands Park Partnership

QUALIFICATIONS ACQUIRED ON JOB:

-Knowledge of DCR, regulations, and policies       

-Increased abilities in patrol and enforcement techniques

-Knowledge of the types and uses of DCR forms

-Knowledge of DCR radios and computer programs

-Knowledge of the specific natural, cultural, and historical environment of the  Islands district

-Knowledge of the use of fire fighting techniques and equipment

-Ability to operate a snowmobile, ATV, motorboat, or horse

-Ability to navigate utilizing a BPS unit

-Ability to communicate through the use of internal and external email

LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATION REQUIRMENTS:

motor vehicle operator's license valid in Massachusetts

CPR certificate from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association

Standard First Aid or First Responder certificate from the American Red Cross

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in park or resource management, environmental education, water resources or water supply management, or natural/cultural history interpretation, and (B) of which at least one year must have been in a supervisory capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below. 

Substitutions: 

 I. An Associate's or higher degree with a major in park and/or recreation management, resource management, water resources management, environmental education, or park interpretation may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.* 

*Education towards such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed. 

NOTE: No substitutions will be permitted for the required (B) experience.  

Special Requirements: 

2. Possession of a current and valid CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) certificate from the American Red Cross or the American heart Association. 

3. Possession of a current and valid standard first aid and personal safety certificate and first responder certificate issued by the American Red Cross.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.