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Fire Ranger Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Fire Ranger information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$21

$42

How much do fire ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire ranger in Tennessee is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.07 and $26.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Ranger, you need knowledge of wildfire behavior, firefighting techniques, and first aid, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant fire management training. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, GPS navigation, and incident command systems is crucial, as is completion of certifications like S-130/S-190. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring safety, effective response to emergencies, and the protection of natural resources.

What are Fire Rangers?

Fire Rangers are specialized professionals who are responsible for detecting, preventing, and combating forest fires, primarily in parks, forests, and other natural environments. They patrol designated areas to monitor fire risks, respond quickly to fire outbreaks, and implement fire management strategies such as controlled burns or clearing vegetation. Fire Rangers also educate the public on fire safety, maintain firefighting equipment, and often work long hours in challenging outdoor conditions. Their work is vital for protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and communities from the dangers of wildfires.

What are some common challenges faced by Fire Rangers during wildfire season?

Fire Rangers often encounter rapidly changing conditions during wildfire season, such as shifting weather patterns, unpredictable fire behavior, and difficult terrain. These challenges require quick decision-making, strong teamwork, and the ability to adapt to physically demanding work environments. Additionally, extended shifts and remote postings can impact personal routines, making resilience and effective stress management essential for success in the role.

What is the difference between Fire Ranger vs Forest Firefighter?

AspectFire RangerForest Firefighter
Required CertificationsWildfire suppression, CPR, First AidWildfire suppression, CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentForests, parks, wilderness areasForests, national parks, rural areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, parks servicesFire departments, forestry services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Fire Rangers and Forest Firefighters both work in wildfire suppression and require similar certifications. Fire Rangers often focus on managing and protecting specific parks or wilderness areas, while Forest Firefighters are typically employed by fire departments or forestry agencies to combat wildfires across broader regions. Both roles are vital in wildfire prevention and response, with overlapping skills and work environments.

Infographic showing various Fire Ranger job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,830 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
PARK RANGER 1 - 05192026-77831

PARK RANGER 1 - 05192026-77831

Tennessee State Government

Memphis, TN • On-site

$54K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Information
State of Tennessee Job Information
Opening Date/Time
05/19/2026 12:00AM Central Time
Closing Date/Time
06/08/2026 11:59PM Central Time
Salary (Monthly)
$4,562.00
Salary (Annually)
$54,744.00
Job Type
Full-Time
City, State Location
Memphis, TN
Department
Environment and Conservation
LOCATION OF (1) POSITION(S) TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION, SHELBY COUNTY
For more information, visit the link below:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/job-announcements-/preferred-service/00009667_tsp_park_ranger_1_t_o_fuller_tdec-job-opp_ps_ua.pdf
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Applicants for this class must:
  • Be willing to and able to qualify with, carry, and use assigned weapons
  • Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age on the date of application
  • Be a citizen of the United States
  • Have a good moral character, as determined by investigation
  • Complete a criminal history disclosure form in a manner approved by the appointing authority
  • Agree to release all records involving their criminal history to the appointing authority
  • Supply a fingerprint sample in a manner prescribed by the TBI for a fingerprint-based criminal
    history records check
  • Have no conviction for a felony or have been discharged under any other than honorable conditions
    from any branch of the United States armed forces
  • Pass a physical examination administered by a licensed physician that is consistent with the
    Americans with Disabilities Act and that relates to the essential functions of the position
  • Pass a psychological evaluation administered by a licensed mental health professional that is
    consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and that relates to the essential functions of
    the position
  • Possess a valid motor vehicle operator's license at the time of appointment
  • Upon appointment, successfully complete a prescribed course of instruction at the Tennessee Law
    Enforcement Academy or have successfully completed the equivalent of the prescribed course.
  • All commissioned Officers of the Tennessee State Parks will complete 63 hours First Responder
    (Emergency Medical Care) or State of Tennessee equivalent course upon being hired and maintain
    their First Responder certification.

  • During their careers, most rangers can expect to be assigned to several different parts of the state. While employee work location preference is considered, there is no guarantee that a ranger will remain stationed in only one area.
    Examination Method: Education and Experience, 100%, for Preferred Service positions.
    Overview
    This position is part of the Tennessee State Parks Park Ranger series for TDEC. This is the entry-level classification in the TSP Park Ranger Series. Under immediate supervision, this classification is responsible for law enforcement, emergency medical response, safety and security of the park and general public, resource-based interpretation, resource management, supervision of full and part-time employees, supporting park operations, and providing maintenance within a state park. This class differs from a TSP Park Ranger 2 in that an incumbent of the latter performs at the working level. This class differs from that of TSP Park Ranger 3 in that the latter performs leadership responsibilities and increasingly complex work.
    *An applicant appointed to this flexibly staffed class will be reclassified to the next higher class in the series after successful completion of a mandatory two-year training period. Inadequate performance during the initial two-year training period will result in automatic demotion or termination.
    Responsibilities
    1. Attends required training and becomes proficient in utilizing law enforcement equipment and knowledge to investigate illicit activity and enforce park rules and regulations as well as state laws to ensure visitor safety and to protect park resources while maintaining order within the park. Documents law enforcement incidents and enters reports within required deadlines.
    2. Provides emergency medical response appropriate to the level of training and certification received within their scope of practice under the approved medical protocols. Utilizing medical assessment and patient management equipment as indicated to determine the level of care appropriate to the patient's condition and get them to the further medical care that they need.
    3. Provides general safety and security for the park. Performs search and rescue operations to locate lost parties. Conducts routine inspections of all park facilities, and features to document and report or resolve safety issues such as issues with fire alarm systems, playground safety standards, OSHA and TOSHA compliance issues, and security issues with unsecured equipment, buildings or to resolve threats to natural and cultural resources or other security concerns as observed.
    4. Provides resource-based interpretive and recreational programming. Utilizing best practice standards to present professional programs, workshops, displays, and exhibits that support their park's interpretive themes and support the mission of Tennessee State Parks while keeping in mind universal accessibility standards.
    5. Utilizes best practices to identify, protect, and promote natural and cultural resources. Organize and conduct activities including boundary marking and investigations, trail management, scientific studies, fire management, habitat improvement, invasive species removal, permitted hunts, volunteer activities, and more.
    6. Supervises and coordinates the work of park staff as assigned by leading and assigning work to support staff. Clearly communicates expectations to employees and follows up with assigning goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, reasonable, and time specific. and reporting performance through the individual performance plan system for all full-time employees or through established methods with employees who do not have Individual Performance Plans (IPP's).
    7. Supports Park operational goals by assisting the public with customer service needs. Providing support for operation accounting procedures in retail operations. Leading smaller park operations and assisting with inventories and purchasing. Making purchases, achieving revenue goals, and creating displays to promote retail sales.
    8. Assist with general maintenance and janitorial work to park facilities and grounds to ensure safe operational conditions. Includes operation of a variety of tools and equipment needed to maintain the various facilities and grounds within a park.
    Competencies (KSA's)
    Competencies:
    1. Instills Trust
    2. Manages Conflict
    3. Decision Quality
    4. Communicates Effectively
    5. Directs Work
    Knowledges:
    1. Customer and Personal Service
    2. Communications and Media
    3. Public Safety and Security
    4. Biology
    5. History and Archeology
    Skills:
    1. Reading Comprehension
    2. Speaking
    3. Judgment and Decision Making
    4. Critical Thinking
    5. Active Learning and Listening
    Abilities:
    1. Speech Recognition
    2. Limb and/or Full Body Flexibility
    3. Written Comprehension
    4. Reaction Time
    5. Prolonged Stamina
    Tools & Equipment
    1. Law Enforcement Equipment (i.e firearms, handcuffs, baton, oleoresin capsicum spray)
    2. Medical Equipment (E.g. AED's, Medical oxygen tank, Blood pressure cuffs, etc.)
    3. Hand Tools (fire management/trail tools)
    4. Computer/ Cell Phone & Radio
    5. Vehicles and Equipment