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Forest Ranger Jobs in Fullerton, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Forest Ranger information

See Fullerton, CA salary details

$5

$22

$32

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Fullerton, CA is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.07 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 cities near Fullerton, CA are hiring for Forest Ranger jobs? Cities near Fullerton, CA with the most Forest Ranger job openings:
Forest Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Fullerton, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,307 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Field Leader - Angeles National Forest Restoration Corps

Student Conservation Association

Arcadia, CA • On-site

$850/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Conservation Corps - 2026 Western Corps Angeles National Forest Restoration Team
Project Leader: Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District
Position Summary
Conservation Begins Here.
Are you ready to lead a high impact conservation project, mentor emerging conservationists, and work closely with U.S. Forest Service partners to protect sensitive postfire landscapes? Join the Student Conservation Association (SCA) as the Project Leader for our Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team - a role that blends leadership, logistics, technical fieldwork, and meaningful ecological restoration.
You'll guide a 4-person crew through the installation of approximately 700 feet of metal post-and-cable OHV barriers, helping prevent illegal off-highway vehicle (OHV) access and supporting long-term habitat recovery in one of the most heavily impacted regions of the Angeles National Forest.
Schedule
Position Dates: 9/13/2026 - 11/25/2026
Leader Preseason: 9/13/2026 - 9/17/2026
Crew Member Training:
  • Crew Member Training: 9/14 - 9/17
  • Wilderness First Aid: 9/18 - 9/19
  • Conservation Work Skills: 9/20 - 9/24

Field Season: 9/28/2026 - 11/19/2026
Crew Members Depart: 11/21/2026
Leader Postseason Wrap Up: 11/23/2026 - 11/25/2026
Total Term: 11 weeks
Location
Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District
Primary project sites are located within the Drinkwater Flat OHV Area and surrounding postfire landscapes.
Crew camping will be based at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable front country site.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
These are the essential functions of the role:
Leadership & Crew Management
  • Supervise, mentor, and support a crew of 3 Crew Members
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused crew culture
  • Facilitate daily check-ins, debriefs, and conflict resolution
  • Lead training on tool use, safety, field protocols, and project expectations

Project Implementation
  • Coordinate daily with U.S. Forest Service staff
  • Install metal post-and-cable barriers according to partner specifications
  • Oversee digging post holes, mixing/pouring cement, setting posts, and tensioning cable
  • Manage material staging, tool inventory, and equipment maintenance
  • Ensure accurate GPS mapping and documentation of installed barriers

Logistics & Administration
  • Develop weekly schedules and work plans
  • Conduct vehicle inspections, grocery planning, and camp logistics
  • Maintain daily and weekly work logs, before/after photos, and partner reports
  • Uphold SCA risk management protocols, including twice daily check-ins
  • Complete end-of-season reporting and project wrap up

Marginal Duties
These tasks support the role but are not essential functions:
  • Support budget tracking and purchasing
  • Coordinate with other SCA teams or partners as needed
  • Assist with emergency response or incident reporting
  • Drive crew vehicle and trailer

Required Qualifications
  • Must be 21 or older by the start date
  • Legal work authorization in the U.S.
  • Valid driver's license for 3+ years and MVR that meets SCA standards
  • Experience leading teams in outdoor, conservation, or service settings
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Perform manual labor for up to 10 hours/day, lift 40+ lbs, and hike 3-5 miles/day
  • Work in challenging outdoor conditions, including: High heat (90-105°F), Santa Ana winds, dust, cement exposure, and rocky soils
  • Live and work in a communal, multigendered environment
  • Commitment to SCA's safety, equity, and inclusion values

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous SCA leadership experience or similar conservation leadership role
  • Experience with construction, fencing, trail work, or restoration projects
  • Familiarity with GPS mapping
  • Experience coordinating with agency partners
  • Wilderness First Responder or higher (WFR provided as part of training program)
  • Trailer towing experience

Hours
This crew follows a Monday-Thursday, 10-hour/day schedule during the field season.
Pre-season and postseason schedules vary based on planning, partner meetings, and de-rig needs.
Living Accommodations
The crew will camp for the duration of the program, primarily at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable site. Amenities may include:
  • Restrooms
  • Potable water
  • Showers (availability varies)

Expect limited access to electricity and cell service.
SCA provides group gear (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.); leaders bring personal items (sleeping bag, pad, clothing, mess kit).
A crew vehicle and trailer are provided for transportation and storage.
Compensation
  • $850 weekly living allowance (leader rate)
  • $1,000 travel allowance (½ paid in first paycheck, ½ paid in last paycheck)
  • Meals provided during fieldwork
  • $1000 Retention Bonus (for eligible returning leaders)
  • $200 Uniform Credit (for eligible returning leaders)
  • All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information
A personal vehicle is not required for this position. Project Leaders are responsible for the SCA-issued crew vehicle, including picking it up from the SCA program hub at the start of the season, ensuring it is properly maintained throughout the program, and returning it to the hub at the end of the season.
Leaders may bring a personal vehicle for off-time use; however, doing so is not recommended, as the leader is expected to prioritize the safe operation, transport, and daily readiness of the SCA crew vehicle. SCA is not responsible for fuel, parking, maintenance, or security of personal vehicles.
Additional Benefits
  • Wilderness First Responder certification
  • Conservation Work Skills training
  • Defensive driver training and trailer training
  • Uniform package including daypack, work shirts, water bladder, and more
  • Group gear provided (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.)

Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SCA is committed to a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect, and supports personal and professional growth for all participants.

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