1

Forest Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Come join The Forest as we strive to provide a best in class, caring community that fosters the ... As a Security Officer , you'll help support this mission by providing necessary security and ...

Application Security Analyst

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$67.98 - $108.77/hr

Lake Forest - Corporate Office 300 N Field Drive Lake Forest, IL 60045, USA Join a Great Place to Work certified company - our Information Security Team is seeking an Application Security Analyst

next page

Showing results 1-20

Forest Security information

See salary details

$14

$26

$40

How much do forest security jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest security in the United States is $26.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forest security?

Forest security refers to the protection and monitoring of forests to prevent illegal activities such as logging, poaching, land encroachment, and forest fires. Professionals in forest security work to ensure the conservation of forest resources and biodiversity by enforcing laws, conducting patrols, and collaborating with local communities. Their role is crucial in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting sustainable forest management.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in forest security roles?

Professionals in Forest Security often face challenges such as patrolling remote and rugged terrain, dealing with illegal activities like poaching or unauthorized logging, and responding to environmental emergencies such as wildfires. These roles require adaptability, physical endurance, and strong communication skills to work effectively with local communities, law enforcement, and environmental agencies. Additionally, balancing conservation goals with community needs and ensuring personal safety in isolated areas are important aspects of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forest security officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forest Security Officer, you need knowledge of environmental laws, forest management, and physical fitness, often supported by a background in forestry, law enforcement, or related fields. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, radio communication systems, and sometimes certifications in first aid or wildfire management are typically required. Strong observation skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help in managing conflicts, reporting incidents, and educating the public. These skills ensure the protection of forest resources, enforcement of regulations, and safety of both the environment and people.

What is the difference between Forest Security vs Forest Ranger?

AspectForest SecurityForest Ranger
Required CredentialsSecurity certifications, sometimes forestry knowledgeWildlife or forestry degrees, certifications
Work EnvironmentForests, protected areas, security postsForests, national parks, conservation areas
Employer & Industry UsageSecurity firms, government agenciesGovernment agencies, conservation organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Forest Security focuses on protecting forests and assets through security measures, often requiring security certifications. Forest Rangers primarily manage conservation efforts, enforce laws, and assist visitors. While both roles work in forest environments, Forest Security emphasizes safeguarding property and resources, whereas Forest Rangers focus on conservation and public education.

More about Forest Security jobs

What cities are hiring for Forest Security jobs?

Cities with the most Forest Security job openings:

What states have the most Forest Security jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forest Security jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Forest Security jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Forest Security jobs are:

Infographic showing various Forest Security job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,353 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Director of Security

Forest Park Forever

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and evolve a comprehensive security strategy across all Forest Park Forever operations.

  • Lead security operations for facilities, programs, and assets, including developing site-specific security plans and coordinating with law enforcement and public safety partners.

  • Build and lead a security team, oversee incident reporting and investigations, and ensure compliance with safety standards.


Job description

Description
About Forest Park Forever
Forest Park Forever (FPF) is a nonprofit conservancy that partners with the City of St. Louis to restore, maintain, and sustain Forest Park as one of America's premier urban public parks. Since its establishment in 1876, Forest Park has played a vital role in the cultural and civic life of St. Louis. Through private fundraising and stewardship, FPF ensures the park remains a vibrant, safe, and accessible destination for millions of visitors each year.
Position Summary
Forest Park Forever is seeking a strategic, experienced, and community-minded Director of Security to establish and lead a comprehensive security program across all operations. This newly created leadership role is responsible for protecting personnel, visitors, volunteers, assets, and facilities across a diverse environment that includes offices, public parkland, and high-profile venues. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of building a culture of safety and security where ownership for safety-first decisions is shared and valued.
The Director of Security will develop and implement forward-thinking security strategies that integrate law enforcement experience with private-sector best practices for cultural and institutional organizations. This role requires a collaborative leader who can build strong partnerships and manage through influence across public agencies, park stakeholders, and internal teams while also cultivating new and strengthening established relationships with first responders and community leaders.
A key responsibility includes oversight of security operations at The Glade, a 22-acre, year-round destination featuring an outdoor rink, pavilion, and large-scale programming with the ultimate goal of fostering a safe, welcoming and service-oriented environment for all park visitors to enjoy.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Program Development
  • Design, implement, and continuously evolve a comprehensive, organization-wide security strategy.
  • Conduct risk assessments across all FPF operations, including offices, facilities, park areas, and events.
  • Develop and enforce policies, procedures, and emergency response plans tailored to both FPF indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Develop and update plans for and stand-up emergency response command centers as needed.
  • Establish security standards aligned with nonprofit, municipal, and public-space best practices.
  • Utilize open-source data and social media monitoring, intelligence gathering, and predictive analysis to assess threats and guide proactive security strategies.
  • Evaluate, implement, and manage physical security technologies and systems.

The Glade
  • Develop and oversee a site-specific security plan including: crowd control management, access, and guest safety for a high-volume venue.
  • Coordinate with FPF staff, police and rangers to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.

Operations & Partnerships
  • Lead all security operations for Forest Park Forever facilities, programs, and assets.
  • Work closely with internal leadership, including Facilities Management, Land Management, and Glade operations teams, to ensure physical security of:
    • Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor & Education Center
    • Land Management facilities
    • The Glade
  • Build and maintain strong working relationships with:
    • St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department
    • St. Louis Park Rangers
    • City of St. Louis Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry (PRF)
    • Security teams across institutions and venues within and around Forest Park
  • Collaborate with public safety partners to address crime trends and park-wide security concerns.
  • Serve as a key representative of FPF in regional security and intelligence-sharing networks.
  • Convene and serve as Administrator for the Forest Park Security Group, vetting topics and presenters with FPF Executive Director and City PRF.

Event Security
  • Lead security planning and execution for FPF events and major park activities.
  • Create and implement Emergency Action Plans for all FPF outdoor events.
  • Coordinate with stakeholders to ensure safe, well-managed large-scale events.

Leadership & Culture
  • Build and lead a team of security staff, ambassadors, and vendors.
  • Implement training in de-escalation, emergency response, and customer service.
  • Promote a visible, approachable, and professional security presence.

Risk, Compliance & Investigations
  • Oversee incident reporting, investigations, and crisis response.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and industry best practices.
  • Manage third-party security vendors and contracts.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 10+ years in law enforcement and/or security operations.
  • Proven leadership experience in complex environments (parks, campuses, venues, or municipalities).
  • Strong expertise in risk management, emergency planning, and physical security systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to build teams, programs, partnerships and manage through influence.
  • Experience leading a team of security professionals.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and analytical skills.
  • High integrity and professional credibility.

Preferred
  • Advanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPP).
  • Law enforcement experience in the St. Louis region.
  • Familiarity with incident command centers.
  • Experience working in, with and/or establishing a security operations center and/or emergency response command center.
  • Use and/or knowledge of emerging security technology and hardware.
  • Knowledgeable of social trends and experience monitoring social media and/or other means to prevent, mitigate or respond to non-permitted events in the park.
  • Background in nonprofit, municipal, or public-private environments.
  • Familiarity with large urban parks or cultural institution security.

Work Environment
  • Office, outdoor park, and event settings.
  • Evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Physical Work Requirements / Work Conditions
  • Constantly operates computers and other office equipment.
  • Frequently works in an indoor office environment.
  • Occasionally required to traverse the park over uneven terrain.
  • Occasionally performs various duties outside in extreme temperatures.
  • Occasionally moves materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Visual ability to see near and distant objects and the ability to distinguish basic colors.
  • Ability to hear, understand, and follow oral and written instructions over radio, telephone, and in-person.

License(s): Valid Drivers License
Forest Park Forever is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with federal regulations.