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Forest Ranger Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

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$4

$18

$25

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Georgia is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Georgia? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in Georgia? For Forest Ranger jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forest Ranger jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Forest Ranger jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in GA? For Forest Ranger jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forest Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Georgia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,288 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter/ Ranger (Gilmer/Pickens)

Forestry Commission, Georgia - GFC

Ellijay, GA

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

An exciting career in wildland firefighting awaits you!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFpaVd4bQQo 

  • Do you love working outside? 

  • Are you comfortable in high-adrenaline/emergency-response environments? 

  • Do you thrive as a part of a team? Are you self-directed and able to make decisions on your own? 

  • Are you adaptable, flexible and committed to public service? 

If so, you may have a career ahead of you in wildland firefighting! 

Georgia Forestry Commission's elite workforce is focused on conserving and protecting Georgia's forest resources. 

Our highly trained wildland firefighters enjoy a dynamic work environment, become experts in the field of wildland firesuppression/prevention, and become part of a unique, all hazard response state agency. 

Apply today to see if you have what it takes! 

Must have a Class A CDL learner's permit (CLP) prior to hire date and the ability to obtain a CDL within 12 weeks. 

Applicants must also successfully pass the pre-employment process which includes background investigation, medical evaluations, and physical fitness tests. 

Physical Fitness Requirement for Entry 

Wildland firefighting and field work are physically demanding and take place in tough conditions, steep terrain, heat, smoke, and high altitudes. Fitness is key: both endurance and strength help you keep going all day. To ensure safety and success, employment requires passing the Moderate Work Capacity Test (WCT), and all employees must pass the WCT or Physical Agility Test (PAT) every year. Strong fitness helps you thrive on the job and handle whatever the day brings! 

 

Test 

Description 

Moderate Work Capacity Test 

2-mile hike while carrying a 25-pound pack within 30 minutes. Running is not permitted. 

This position will work out of Georgia Forestry Commission's Gilmer/Pickens County unit located in Ellijay, GA. 

For more information call 706-692-4801.

Click here to learn more about our GREAT benefits!https://gatrees.org/resources/gfc-benefits-summary/ 

Click here to learn more about forestry and wildland firefighting (Southern Group of State Foresters):https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjo3SIjzmraevdt7ssk6EqXzncE1ylZna 

Ranger/Wildland Firefighter Job Duties: 

  • Must live and/or relocate to within 45 minutes of assigned work location. 

  • Under close supervision receives training and instruction in fire control duties using heavy equipment. 

  • Assists with maintaining buildings, grounds and equipment. 

  • Participates in forestry related services and programs such as reforestation, community and school activities. 

  • Controls and extinguishes fires using manual and power equipment. 

  • Ensures proper operation and maintenance of firefighting equipment. 

  • Inspects property to ensure compliance with laws, codes and regulations. 

  • Operates fire engines and hoselays. 

  • Performs upkeep and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment. 

  • Prepares reports. 

  • Carries out the implementation of fire prevention campaigns. 

  • Operates commercial class transport and medium to heavy duty crawler tractor in wildland fire suppression and construction of pre-suppression fire breaks. 

  • Responds to fire calls and other requests for assistance, such as accidents and other emergencies. 

  • Participates in a rotating "on call" schedule to respond to requests for assistance after hours and on weekends/holidays. 

Connect with us! 

http://www.twitter.com/GaTrees 

http://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission 

http://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-forestry-commission 

Valid CDL license or learners permit with the ability to obtain a CDL license within twelve (12) weeks of hire.
Additional Information
  • Agency Logo:
  • Requisition ID: LAW0BC3
  • Number of Openings: 1
  • Advertised Salary: 42,640.00
  • Shift: Day Job
  • Posting End Date: Jun 17, 2026

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