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Backcountry Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CO · On-site

$19/hr

Certain parks may have specific lake, river and backcountry duties and requirements. This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations. Assures quality customer service, facility ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

A majority of this work will be performed in the backcountry along trails that range in elevation ... Schedule, plan and present Junior Ranger programs Schedule, plan and present school and group ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

A majority of this work will be performed in the backcountry along trails that range in elevation ... Schedule, plan and present Junior Ranger programs Schedule, plan and present school and group ...

CO · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Limited Commissioned Ranger positions). If checked, a NEOGOV notification is sent to applicants ... backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some ...

CO

$17 - $18/hr

Limited Commissioned Ranger positions). If checked, a NEOGOV notification is sent to applicants ... backcountry settings. Candidates must have their own reliable camping equipment although some ...

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Backcountry Ranger information

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$12

$20

$39

How much do backcountry ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for backcountry ranger in the United States is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Backcountry Ranger job?

A Backcountry Ranger is responsible for protecting and maintaining remote wilderness areas, ensuring visitor safety, and enforcing park regulations. They patrol trails and backcountry campsites, educate hikers on Leave No Trace principles, and respond to emergencies such as lost hikers or injuries. Rangers also assist with conservation efforts, wildlife monitoring, and trail maintenance. This role requires strong outdoor skills, physical endurance, and a passion for preserving natural landscapes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backcountry Ranger position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backcountry Ranger, you need expertise in wilderness navigation, first aid, land management practices, and environmental education, often supported by a degree in natural resources or related fields. Familiarity with GPS units, mapping software, radio communication devices, and certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to communicate effectively with visitors and team members help distinguish exceptional candidates. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, effective resource management, and positive visitor experiences in remote and often challenging natural landscapes.

What are some typical challenges faced by Backcountry Rangers in the field?

Backcountry Rangers often encounter difficult terrain, rapidly changing weather conditions, and limited access to emergency resources, which require strong adaptability and preparedness. Managing visitor safety and compliance with regulations in remote areas can be demanding, especially during peak seasons or in popular destinations. Additionally, rangers may work alone for extended periods and must be equipped to handle emergencies without immediate support. Successful rangers thrive by staying vigilant, relying on proven procedures, and utilizing teamwork when possible through coordinated patrols or collaborating with other agencies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backcountry Ranger jobs? The most popular types of Backcountry Ranger jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Backcountry Ranger jobs? The top employers for Backcountry Ranger jobs are:
What states have the most Backcountry Ranger jobs? States with the most job openings for Backcountry Ranger jobs include:
Infographic showing various Backcountry Ranger job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 38% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,977 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
TEMPORARY Limited Commissioned Title 33 Ranger - James M. Robb Colorado River State Park

TEMPORARY Limited Commissioned Title 33 Ranger - James M. Robb Colorado River State Park

State of Colorado

On-site

$19/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


State Of Colorado rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 50 rated states


Job description

Department Information THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS)- PAY starting at $19.00 PER HOUR + depending on experience with an opportunity for increase during the course of employment. EMPLOYMENT STARTS March-May THROUGH September-October. This announcement will remain open until FILLED

You are encouraged to apply early. NOTE: This position is up to 40 hours per week and up to nine months in duration. School schedules MAY be accommodated.

Housing is NOT provided. If you have any questions feel free to email coriverstatepark@gmail.com The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources. Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Job Description: This is an unarmed law enforcement position (Title 33 Commission) that enforces park laws and regulations; issues citations for violations; patrols park areas by vehicle, bicycle or foot.

Responds to emergencies and resolves visitor complaints. Will complete reports and may be required to appear in court. Positions may also assist with revenue collection and verification, visitor services operations, education and interpretive programs.

Certain parks may have specific lake, river and backcountry duties and requirements. This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations. Assures quality customer service, facility maintenance (including cleaning restrooms), repair and cleanliness, assists with fee collection, accounting and deposits, and environmental education programs.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Must be at least 21 years of age. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Must be free of felony convictions or pending charges.

Consideration will be given to all other previous violations of law, including misdemeanor violations, domestic violence, traffic and conservation laws. Must have or be able to attain valid current First Aid and CPR certifications. Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly.

Must be able to work various shifts, Days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Applicants must successfully complete a comprehensive background check. Must attend and successfully complete required Colorado State Park training (may include full exposure to OC spray).

Preference may be given to applicants with or working towards a Natural Resources degree or similar education. Pursuant to the DNR-120 Fleet and Driving Standards Administrative Directive, any worker who will be expected to drive a State-owned vehicle is responsible for maintaining a safe driving record and a valid driver license prior to driving any State-owned vehicle. To be compliant with the new fleet vehicle policy, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) will be pulled for review for workers who: Have an assigned State fleet vehicle Are required to operate a vehicle as part of the position Utilize a State fleet vehicle as a pool vehicle PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position will perform physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

Ability to perceive color differences and to hear verbal and radio communications. Supplemental Information The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness. The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us

E-Verify employer: The Department of Natural Resources participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program's Right to Work for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S

Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities. Toll-Free Applicant Support - Technical Help If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time)

Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it. The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues.


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