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Forest Ranger Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

The region also boasts diverse wildlife and landscapes such as Columbia Bottomland forests, rivers ... The successful candidate(s) for Temporary / Seasonal General Maintenance, Beach and Grounds Ranger ...

Parks Temporary

Angleton, TX · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

The region also boasts diverse wildlife and landscapes such as Columbia Bottomland forests, rivers ... The successful candidate(s) for Temporary / Seasonal General Maintenance, Beach and Grounds Ranger ...

... forests, numerous boat ramps and a dedicated and professional team of employees. Example of Duties ... ranger who reports directly to the Superintendent. This position will also be the lead for ...

Historic Site Manager

Angleton, TX · On-site

$31.20 - $35.11/hr

... forests, numerous boat ramps and a dedicated and professional team of employees. Example of Duties ... ranger who reports directly to the Superintendent. This position will also be the lead for ...

Forest Ranger information

See Texas salary details

$4

$20

$28

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Texas is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $24.18 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in Texas? For Forest Ranger jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Forest Ranger jobs in TX? For Forest Ranger jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,245 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter)

CAPPS

Corpus Christi, TX • On-site

$4.2K/mo

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description
TPWD MISSION
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
HIRING CONTACT: Clarissa Kruse, 3617495246, Email Address: clarissa.kruse@tpwd.texas.gov
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Mustang Island State Park, 9394 State Hwy 361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the direction of the Assistant Superintendent and the Superintendent, this position performs routine (journeylevel) state park operations work. Responsible for conducting programs, tours, guided walks, and special events including but not limited to: weekly programs, park tours, and guided hikes for park visitors and interpretive programming for various special interest groups. Assists with coordination and scheduling of programs, school groups, and tours. Assists with the development and implementation of interpretive and outreach programs. Assist in administering the Mustang Island State Park host and volunteer program. Prepares reports, maintains administrative and interpretive files, and may assist with visitor service needs, including revenue collection, entrance fee and store sales and periodic grounds and facility maintenance. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.
Experience:
No experience required.
Licensure:
Must possess a valid State driver's license.
ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS:
Education:
One year of experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs may substitute for 30 hours of the required education, with a maximum substitution of 120 semester hours.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Park Administration, Recreation & Parks, Wildlife/Fisheries Science, Natural and/or Cultural Resource Conservation, Range Management, Forestry, Biology, Anthropology/Archeology, History, or closely related field.
Experience:
Experience in customer service.
Experience in park operations.
Experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of natural and cultural resource management.
Knowledge of special event planning and implementation.
Knowledge of environmental education programs.
Knowledge of outdoor education programs.
Knowledge of general maintenance techniques.
Knowledge of the principles of park administration.
Knowledge of methods of interpretation and education.
Knowledge of standard financial and business management principles.
Skill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook.
Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
Skill in effective interpretive techniques, program preparation, and presentations.
Skill in planning, organizing, and implementing public presentations and guided tours for all age groups.
Skill in completing reports and providing accurate information.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with coworkers and workrelated contacts.
Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner;
Skill in facilitating meetings.
Skill in general maintenance techniques.
Ability to communicate effectively with the public.
Ability to train and serve as a team leader for volunteers.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to accurately handle cash and account for revenue collected.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Required to work in a public park with overnight camping and day use.
Required to work 40 hours per week, including various schedules with hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and days off other than Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Required to operate a State vehicle.
Required to travel 5% with possible overnight stays.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
Nonsmoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
PLEASE NOTE:
All applications must include complete job history information for each period of employment, provided either in the WORK HISTORY SECTION or in the attached RÉSUMÉ. Please ensure each entry includes:
  • Job title,
  • Employer name,
  • Dates of employment (month/year),
  • If employment is less than fulltime status, indicate parttime in the work history section or résumé, and
  • Description of duties performed.
    NOTE: Volunteer experience may be counted toward required experience.

IMPORTANT:
  • College Transcripts: If education is used to meet the minimum qualifications, a copy of the college transcript(s) issued by the registrar must be provided at the time of interview (unless otherwise noted in the posting).
  • 'N/A' may be entered in fields that are not applicable.
  • Omission of required information may result in disqualification.

Work In Texas (WIT) Applicants:
  • WIT applicants must complete the supplemental questions in the CAPPS Candidate Gateway to be considered.
    • Human Resources will contact Work In Texas applicants via email with further instructions.
  • To complete these questions, log in to CAPPS Candidate Gateway .
  • If you need assistance creating a résumé, please refer to the 'Create a Résumé' link for Job Seekers on the Work In Texas website .

If the required information and attachments are not submitted as noted above, your application will be considered incomplete.
EXCELLENT BENEFITS:
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension, and frequent training and staff development opportunities. Other benefits include longevity pay, merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401K/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program and a ReturntoWork Program. For new employees or rehires, health insurance is available on the 1st of the following month after a 60day waiting period. Click HERE to view our Benefits page.
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE:
If you choose to claim military employment preference as outlined by the State of Texas, you must attach the required documentation referenced below at the time your application is submitted . If you have questions regarding this requirement, please visit our Military Employment Reference page at https://tpwd.texas.gov/jobs/veterans/ .
Required forms that will need to be attached with application for Military Employment Preference:
Veteran DD214 showing honorable discharge or Statement of Service (only for transitioning service members who have not reached their date of separation).
Surviving spouse of a veteran who has not remarried Marriage Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.
Orphan of a veteran killed while on active duty Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.
Spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on Active Duty Marriage Certificate and copy of spouses activeduty military orders.
Spouse of a veteran with disability and is the primary income for household Marriage Certificate, Veterans DD214, and VA Benefits Summary Letter showing disability rating.
Documentation must be attached to the application before military preference can be granted.
More information on military occupational specialty codes can be found below:
https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/
https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf
TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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About CAPPS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A statewide software solution developed by the Texas Department of Information Resources, CAPPS consolidates financial management, HR, and payroll operations for state agencies. Designed as a unified enterprise resource system, CAPPS replaced legacy tools in the early 2000s with a scalable, integrated platform tailored to agencies of varied size and complexity.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US