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California State Parks Ranger Jobs in California

PARK RANGER 1966

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$78K - $96K/yr

... parks, beaches, and other facilities to ensure park security; interprets and enforces City ... SELECTION PROCESS THE DAY OF THE EXAMINATION Bring a valid State or Federal issued photo ...

Ranger

Cathedral City, CA

$18 - $22.25/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Cathedral City, California. What you'll do: As a Ranger ... state, and federal laws. Rangers communicate directly with management regarding emergencies or ...

Ranger

Cathedral City, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Cathedral City, California. What you'll do: As a Ranger ... state, and federal laws. Rangers communicate directly with management regarding emergencies or ...

Ranger

Cathedral City, CA

$18 - $22.25/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Cathedral City, California. What you'll do: As a Ranger ... state, and federal laws. Rangers communicate directly with management regarding emergencies or ...

Ranger

Cathedral City, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Cathedral City, California. What you'll do: As a Ranger ... state, and federal laws. Rangers communicate directly with management regarding emergencies or ...

Showing results 41-60

California State Parks Ranger information

See California salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do california state parks ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for california state parks ranger in California is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a California State Parks Ranger?

California State Parks Rangers are state-employed law enforcement officers responsible for protecting the natural and cultural resources within California's state parks. They enforce laws, ensure visitor safety, provide emergency assistance, and educate the public about park rules and conservation. Rangers also conduct patrols, respond to incidents, and assist with park maintenance and operations. Their work helps preserve the beauty and integrity of California's state parks for current and future generations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a California State Parks Ranger?

To thrive as a California State Parks Ranger, you need a solid background in law enforcement, natural resource management, and public safety, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and completion of the State Park Ranger Academy. Rangers utilize law enforcement tools, radio communication systems, and specialized equipment for emergency response and park maintenance. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to public service help rangers effectively engage with visitors and handle challenging situations. These skills are essential for protecting natural resources, ensuring visitor safety, and fostering positive experiences in California’s state parks.

What types of collaboration can a California State Parks Ranger expect with other agencies or departments?

California State Parks Rangers frequently collaborate with various agencies such as local law enforcement, fire departments, and wildlife services, especially during emergencies or large public events. They also work closely with maintenance staff, interpretive specialists, and park management to ensure visitor safety and protect natural resources. This teamwork is essential for coordinating search and rescue operations, wildfire response, and educational programs. Effective communication and a collaborative attitude are highly valued in this role.

What is the difference between California State Parks Ranger vs California State Park Peace Officer?

AspectCalifornia State Parks RangerCalifornia State Park Peace Officer
Required CredentialsCalifornia State Parks Ranger certification, basic law enforcement trainingPeace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification, law enforcement academy
Work EnvironmentNatural parks, recreational areas, visitor centersLaw enforcement settings within parks, enforcing laws and regulations
Employer & Industry UsageCalifornia State Parks Department, conservation agenciesCalifornia State Parks Department, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonVisitor assistance, park maintenance, conservationLaw enforcement, crime prevention, emergency response

California State Parks Rangers focus on visitor services, conservation, and park maintenance, while California State Park Peace Officers have law enforcement authority, enforce laws, and handle emergencies. Both roles are vital to park safety and preservation but differ in training, authority, and responsibilities.

How difficult is it to get a California State Parks Ranger job?

Becoming a California State Parks Ranger typically requires meeting minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent, passing written and physical fitness tests, and completing a background check. The selection process is competitive, with candidates often needing relevant experience, certifications, or training in law enforcement, emergency response, or conservation. Preparation and meeting all requirements can improve chances of success in obtaining the position.

How do I become a California State Parks Ranger?

To become a California State Parks Ranger, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in law enforcement, natural resource management, or public safety, and must pass written exams, physical fitness tests, and background checks. Some positions require specialized certifications such as CPR or first aid, and candidates often need to complete training at the California State Parks Peace Officer Academy.

How much do California State Parks Rangers make?

California State Parks Rangers typically earn an annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and rank. Entry-level rangers often start at the lower end of this range, with opportunities for advancement and increased pay with additional certifications and years of service.
Infographic showing various California State Parks Ranger job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

LIFEGUARD II (SEASONAL)

Laguna Beach, CA • On-site

$22.51 - $25.27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

LIFEGUARD II (SEASONAL) - ORANGE COAST DISTRICT / NORTH SECTOR / CRYSTAL COVE STATE PARK
"Priority consideration will be given to any person receiving State public assistance under the CalWORKs program. Applicants who receive State public assistance need to identify their status as a CalWORKs recipient in the comments area on the application. Applicants must submit a verification of their CalWORKs eligibility status, which may include the most recent Notice of Action showing TANF eligibility or a copy of your last aid check stub. If verification is not submitted with the application, the application will not be processed. (Applicants may obtain verification from the CalWORKs program)."
The reporting location for this position is Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, CA. This position will work under the supervision of the State Parks Peace Officer (Lifeguard).
The Lifeguard II (LG II) duties include detecting and performing aquatic rescues on the beach, assisting person and vessels in distress, performing medical aides and resuscitation measures per DPR protocols and procedures, and preventing aquatic emergencies by making safety contacts and identifying hazards. The LG II may take incident command during aquatic emergencies, notify peace officers of observed criminal activity, notify supervisors of park incidents, prepare reports, contact visitors, communicate rules and regulations, and provide education and interpretation. The LG II will operate the patrol truck and rescue watercraft. The LG II must work effectively with the entire lifeguard, visitor services, and maintenance staff to carry out the Department's mission, goals, and values.
The LG II is expected to be available to work full time during the peak-use period of Memorial Day to Labor Day. The LG II is expected to work most weekends and holidays during this timeframe. This position can work 189 days in a 12 consecutive month period or a maximum of 1500 hours within 12 consecutive months per California Code of Regulation 265.1 . This position is designated as not telework eligible.
The selected candidate is required to submit to a background investigation process utilizing Live Scan fingerprinting prior to appointment.
This position requires a valid Class C driver's license. You must answer the questions addressing your driver's license on your application. Ensure you provide your driver's license number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions on your application.
State housing is not available. For further information regarding this position, please contact Paul Andrus at 949-433-9775 or at Paul.Andrus@parks.ca.gov .
Per California Code of Regulations (CCR) 599.961 , this is a sensitive position, and therefore subject to drug and alcohol testing. It should be noted that testing is not mandatory, but is allowed to be conducted only if and when there is a determination of reasonable suspicion as defined in CCR 599.962 .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Includes but is not limited to beach and ocean open water environment may include lakes and rivers. Work will occur in an outdoor environment with varied weather including sun, wind, and rain.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • LIFEGUARD II (SEASONAL)
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-522224
Position #(s):
549-928-0990-901
Working Title:
LIFEGUARD II (SEASONAL)
Classification:
LIFEGUARD II (SEASONAL) $22.51 - $25.27
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Orange County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Non-Tenured, Intermittent
Facility:
Orange Coast District
Department Information
The mission of California State Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.
All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.

Possession of (1) a Department of Parks and Recreation First Responder certificate or equivalent and (2) a Department of Parks and Recreation Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Red Cross Professional Rescuer or equivalent certificate. An approved Department of Health Emergency Technician certificate may be substituted for both the required certificates. Applicants who do not possess these certificates will be admitted to the examination but they must produce evidence of the certificates before they can be considered for an appointment. and Equivalent to three months of experience performing the duties of a lifeguard in other than swimming pools.
DO NOT include any confidential information to your application or supporting documents (i.e., Social Security Number, birthdate, marital status, medical information, examination results, method of eligibility, etc.)
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/17/2026
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the applicable Laws and Rules. Please note on your application your current participation in these programs. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Parks & Recreation
Orange Coast District
Attn: Paul Andrus
8471 N. Coast HWY
Laguna Beach , CA 92651
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Parks & Recreation
Orange Coast District
Paul Andrus
8471 N. Coast HWY
Laguna Beach , CA 92651
Monday-Friday, excluding weekends and state holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Paul Andrus
(949) 433-9775
paul.andrus@parks.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Sharon Comas - EEO Office
(916) 653-9990
sharon.comas@parks.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Instructions
If submitting your completed Application Package by mail or hand delivery, you must include the Position # 549-928-0990-901 and the Job Control # JC-522224 in the "Examination or Job Title for which you are applying" section on the STD. 678.
Note: If you are applying for multiple positions, you must complete a STD. 678 for each position separately. Incomplete applications or applications received with multiple positions listed on one application will not be considered.
Employment History on the STD 678 must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors. Failure to submit a completed STD 678 may result in you being screened out. Only the most qualified candidates will be invited to an interview.
Further Information
Visitor Safety and Protection, Leadership, Administration, and Maintenance.
For more information regarding the Lifeguard II classification visit the following link: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21232
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.