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Forest Ranger Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Troon

Pro Shop Attendant

Oak Forest, IL

$15/hr

George Dunne National Golf Club in Oak Forest, IL is excited to announce the exceptional career ... Perform Starter/Ranger like duties * Responsible for welcoming and greeting of guests and players ...

Troon Golf

Pro Shop Attendant

Oak Forest, IL · On-site

$15/hr

George Dunne National Golf Club in Oak Forest, IL is excited to announce the exceptional career ... Perform Starter/Ranger like duties * Responsible for welcoming and greeting of guests and players ...

All JobsForest Ranger JobsForest Ranger Jobs in Illinois

Forest Ranger information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$21

$29

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Illinois is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do forest rangers make in the US?

Forest rangers in the United States typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, with higher earnings possible based on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced rangers or those in supervisory roles can earn over $60,000 annually. The job often requires outdoor work, physical fitness, and knowledge of conservation practices.

What challenges do forest rangers face in balancing conservation with public access?

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 work does a forest ranger do?

A forest ranger is responsible for protecting and managing public forests and parks, which includes tasks such as patrolling for illegal activities, maintaining trails, conducting conservation efforts, and educating visitors. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may need certifications in first aid or firefighting. Their work helps preserve natural resources and ensure public safety in forested areas.

What is a forest ranger?

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.

Is it easy to become a forest ranger?

Becoming a forest ranger typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in forestry, environmental science, or related fields. Candidates often need to pass physical fitness tests, background checks, and obtain certifications such as first aid or firefighting training; competition for positions can be high depending on the region and agency.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forest ranger?

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.

How do you become a forest ranger?

To become a forest ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a college degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of conservation practices, physical fitness, and sometimes certification in first aid or firefighting; completing training programs provided by government agencies is also common.

What does a forest ranger do?

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 Illinois? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in Illinois? For Forest Ranger jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forest Ranger jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Forest Ranger jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Forest Ranger jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Forest Ranger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in IL? For Forest Ranger jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forest Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,940 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Deputy Ranger Police Officer

Lake County Forest Preserve District

Libertyville, IL

$26.90 - $40.41/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Summary of Position The Lake County Forest Preserve District Public Safety Division is dedicated to the protection and safety of Forest Preserve visitors as well as the protection of the natural resources and physical properties contained within the District. Educates general public concerning preservation of land, safety, local laws, District facilities, and rules and regulations. The Deputy Ranger Police Officer enforces the Illinois Compiled Statutes and District Rules and Regulations on District lands.

Provides surveillance (by vehicle, foot, bike or boat), law enforcement support, fire detection, and suppression. Knows and uses the power of arrest or issues a citation, if necessary, but constantly strives for voluntary compliance with statutes and ordinances through education. Responsible for crowd and traffic control at District special events.

Ensures cleanliness of assigned Preserves and facilities used by the public during operational hours when no maintenance personnel are present. Drives a motorized vehicle to travel to different locations. Performs heavy lifting tasks up to 50 pounds.

Qualifications Qualified candidates must have completed the Illinois law enforcement basic training certification, including firearms training, standard first aid, CPR, and be a high school graduate. Must be a US Citizen, at least 21 years old with good moral character. Must possess the ability to understand the role of police officer in the management of recreational areas.

Must possess a valid motor vehicle driver's license. Ability to run, climb, stoop, bend, sit, kneel, reach, and walk up to 3 miles a day. Selected candidates will be required to complete the fitness test, oral interview, psychological test, physical and drug test, and in-depth background investigation.

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