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Forest Ranger Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

South Suburban

Park Ranger Seasonal

Littleton, CO · On-site

$17.05 - $21.70/hr

Park Ranger Part-Time This is an ongoing recruitment process, with no specific closing date. We ... Create, enhance, restore, and manage wetland, grassland, and riparian forest wildlife habitats ...

State of Colorado

CO

$18/hr

... Forest in Western Colorado. Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks ... Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact ...

State of Colorado

CO · On-site

$18/hr

... Forest in Western Colorado. Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks ... Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact ...

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$5

$22

$32

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Colorado is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do I Do As a Forest Ranger?

A forest ranger has a wide range of responsibilities. In this career, you work in a national park, national forest, state park, or other nature preserve. Your job responsibilities include providing safety services for the visitors of the park, which could involve patrol duties, trail maintenance, fire prevention, or insect control. You are also responsible for the protection of the environment inside the park or preserve. You work to maintain the park in its natural state and stop activities such as littering, poaching, or other misuses of the land. In some roles, you may work closely with wildlife, while other positions focus more on visitors.

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

To thrive as a Forest Ranger, you need knowledge of forestry, environmental science, and resource management, usually backed by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, GPS devices, and fire management systems is commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help Forest Rangers engage with the public and coordinate with other agencies. These abilities are essential for protecting natural resources, ensuring public safety, and effectively managing forest lands.

What are some common challenges Forest Rangers face in balancing conservation efforts with public access to natural areas?

Forest Rangers often need to strike a balance between preserving natural habitats and providing public access for recreation. This can present challenges, such as enforcing regulations to protect wildlife and ecosystems while also educating visitors about responsible use of the land. Rangers may encounter issues like illegal dumping, off-trail hiking, or unauthorized campfires, which require both enforcement and diplomacy. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as rangers collaborate with local communities, law enforcement, and conservation groups to address these challenges.

What are forest rangers?

Forest rangers are professionals responsible for managing, protecting, and preserving forests, parks, and natural resources. They patrol forested areas to prevent and combat wildfires, enforce regulations, educate the public, and monitor wildlife and plant health. Forest rangers also assist with search and rescue operations and maintain trails and campsites. Their work is vital for ensuring the safety and sustainability of natural habitats for future generations.

What is the difference between Forest Ranger vs Park Ranger?

AspectForest RangerPark Ranger
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field; certifications in firefighting and first aidOften requires similar degrees; certifications in first aid, law enforcement, or visitor services
Work EnvironmentForests, wilderness areas, national forestsNational parks, recreational areas, visitor centers
Employer & IndustryU.S. Forest Service, state forestry agenciesNational Park Service, state park agencies

While both Forest Rangers and Park Rangers work to protect natural resources and assist visitors, Forest Rangers primarily focus on forest management, firefighting, and conservation in forested areas. Park Rangers often concentrate on visitor safety, education, and resource protection within parks. The roles overlap but differ mainly in their work environments and specific responsibilities.

More about Forest Ranger jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado? For Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Forest Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Forest Ranger jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Forest Ranger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in CO? For Forest Ranger jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forest Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,680 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
WATERSHED RANGER I/II

WATERSHED RANGER I/II

City of Longmont Colorado

Longmont, CO

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

WATERSHED RANGER I/II



Job Announcement

Code : 20260156-1

Posting Start : 05/19/2026

Posting End : 12/31/9999

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