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Forest Ranger Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Forest Ranger information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$22

$32

How much do forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ranger in Riverside, 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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.
More about Forest Ranger jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs in Riverside, CA?

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What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Forest Ranger jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Forest Ranger job openings:

Forest Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ranger job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,306 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Herbicide Applicator

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Riverside, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Davey Tree rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Davey Tree

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.7

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.7 out of 10

Gardening and landscaping average

Based on 1,045 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Davey Tree

  • 92%

    92% say their health insurance is affordable

    say their health insurance is affordable

  • 82%

    82% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 69%

    69% say they have respectful managers

    say they have respectful managers

Featured by Davey Tree, based on 101 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees

Job description

Company: Davey Resource Group, Inc.  
Locations: Riverside, CA, Riverside, CA, Riverside, CA, Riverside, CA, Riverside, CA, San Bernardino, CA, San Bernardino, CA, San Bernardino, CA, San Bernardino, CA, San Bernardino, CA, San Bernardino, CA  
Additional Locations: Inland Empire, CA 
Work Site: On Site   
Req ID: 227316 

Position Overview

We are currently looking to add a dynamic UVM Technician to our passionate team of environmental professionals.  

Job Duties

UTILITY HERBICIDE APPLICATOR RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Perform vegetation removal and herbicide treatment activities for transmission Rights of Way (ROW) and access roads

  • Adhere to all federal, state and safety best management practices for vegetation management adjacent to energized facilities

  • Transport, mix and apply herbicide mix(es) in accordance to each product’s label

  • Daily record keeping for location, acreage, amount of product used and wind speed

  • Safely operate 4x4 vehicle with trailer, UTV / Side by Side (Polaris Ranger or equivalent)

  • 25% overnight travel required.

Qualifications

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Current pesticide applicator’s license issued by the State of California or ability to acquire applicators license within three months.

  • Preferred one year experience working around high voltage electrical utility power systems

  • One year experience in herbicide applications or weed control and vegetation removal

  • Ability to identify various biological communities within California

  • Knowledge of safety requirements regarding herbicide application/vegetation removal

practices around substations, communication sites, utility Right of Way and near high

voltage equipment

  • Knowledge of state and federal regulations regarding chemical applications

  • Knowledge of applicable OSHA vegetation safety standards, FAC-003 requirements,

FERC/NERC Standards and requirements as they relate to the transmission utility industry.

  • Ability to receive California Qualified Applicators License in 6 months

Additional Information

What We Offer:*

  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for advancement.
  • All job specific equipment and safety gear provided.
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.
  • Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options.
  • Group Health Plan.
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program:  Send-A-Friend.
  • Locations throughout the United States in major cities and desirable areas.
  • Career Development Program supported by industry expert safety specialists and skilled trainers.
  • The Davey Tree Family Scholarship for children of employees.
  • Charitable matching gift program.

*All listed benefits available to eligible employees.

Company Overview

DAVEY RESOURCE GROUP, a division of The Davey Tree Expert Company, is a leader in the natural resource, environmental, and forestry consulting industries throughout the United States.

Divisional Overview

The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.

Davey Resource Group, Inc., is a leader in the natural resource, environmental, and forestry consulting industries throughout the United States.  The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.

Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at Recruiting@davey.com.

Employment Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Full Time 
Travel Expectations: Up to 50%

Working at Davey Tree

Perks for frontline workers

From Davey Tree, via Breakroom

  • Holidays and paid time off

  • Group health plans

  • Vision and dental insurance

  • 401K with a company match

  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan: Opportunity to buy company stock at a 15% discount

  • Paid parental leave

  • Employee Educational Scholarship

  • Davey Family Scholarship

  • Employee referral bonus program

  • 20% discount on all Davey services

  • Child care discounts

  • Charitable matching gift program

  • Plus, so much more!

About Davey Tree, in their own words

From Davey Tree

At Davey, we care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We’re always striving to be our best, and we expect the same of each and every employee. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology, flexibility and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience for employees at all levels. And our unique employee-ownership model means you can have a stake in the success of our company every day, with every decision you make. Wherever you want to grow your career – from a new role to a new geography – there’s a place for you at Davey.

Company values

From Davey Tree

Safety, Integrity, Expertise, Leadership, Stewardship, Perseverance

What Davey Tree employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom