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Forestry Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chief Park Ranger Print ( Apply  Chief Park Ranger Salary $111,666.24 - $135,740.88 Annually ... forestry, public recreation, criminal justice, natural resource management or a closely related ...

AND Two years of full-time, paid or volunteer experience supervising staff performing ranger ... forestry, public recreation, criminal justice, natural resource management or a closely related ...

Chief Park Ranger

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$111K - $135K/yr

AND Two years of full-time, paid or volunteer experience supervising staff performing ranger ... forestry, public recreation, criminal justice, natural resource management or a closely related ...

Chief Park Ranger

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$111K - $135K/yr

AND Two years of full-time, paid or volunteer experience supervising staff performing ranger ... forestry, public recreation, criminal justice, natural resource management or a closely related ...

Forestry Ranger information

See California salary details

$39K

$54.8K

$72.5K

How much do forestry ranger jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry ranger in California is $54,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Forestry Rangers?

Forestry Rangers are professionals responsible for managing, protecting, and conserving forests and natural resources. They patrol forested areas to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and logging, respond to emergencies like wildfires, and educate the public about responsible land use. Forestry Rangers also collect data on wildlife and plant populations, assist in habitat restoration, and enforce environmental regulations to ensure the long-term health of forest ecosystems.

What are some common challenges Forestry Rangers face in their day-to-day work?

Forestry Rangers often encounter challenges such as managing large areas of land with limited resources, responding quickly to emergencies like wildfires or illegal activities, and balancing conservation efforts with public access. They must adapt to varying weather conditions and rugged terrains, which can be physically demanding. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with local communities, law enforcement, and other agencies are essential to successfully carrying out their responsibilities.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Forestry Rangers typically do not earn $2000 a day; their salaries are usually much lower, often based on annual pay rather than daily rates. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2000 a day generally include specialized roles such as corporate executives, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These roles are often found in industries like finance, law, or executive management rather than forestry.

What is the difference between Forestry Ranger vs Conservation Officer?

AspectForestry RangerConservation Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in forestry or natural resource managementHigh school diploma; certifications in environmental science or conservation
Work EnvironmentForests, parks, and outdoor natural areasWildlife reserves, parks, and conservation sites
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, parks departmentsEnvironmental agencies, conservation organizations

Forestry Rangers primarily focus on managing forest resources, enforcing regulations, and ensuring public safety in natural areas. Conservation Officers also work in natural settings but often have broader responsibilities including wildlife protection, habitat preservation, and law enforcement related to environmental laws. Both roles require similar certifications and work outdoors, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

What does a forestry ranger do?

A forestry ranger is responsible for managing and protecting forests, wildlife, and natural resources. They monitor forest health, enforce regulations, conduct conservation activities, and may assist with fire prevention and suppression. The role often requires outdoor work, knowledge of ecology, and relevant certifications such as firefighting or first aid.

How can I become a forest ranger?

To become a forest ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of conservation practices, physical fitness, and experience with tools like GPS and GIS; obtaining certifications such as first aid or firefighting can also be beneficial.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Forestry rangers typically do not earn $10,000 a month without advanced experience or specialized skills; most entry-level positions pay significantly less. High-paying jobs without a degree in other fields include roles like commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which often require certifications, licenses, or extensive experience. These roles may involve self-employment, commission-based pay, or specialized training to reach higher income levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forestry Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forestry Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental science, forest management practices, and relevant regulations, usually supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, GPS devices, and fire management certification is often required. Strong observation skills, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help in monitoring forest health and engaging with the public. These skills ensure the protection of natural resources, safety, and successful stewardship of forested lands.
What cities in California are hiring for Forestry Ranger jobs? Cities in California with the most Forestry Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Forestry Ranger job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,793 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Supervising Park Ranger-26634305

Supervising Park Ranger-26634305

County of San Diego

San Diego, CA

$72K - $88K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

545th of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary The County of San Diego is currently accepting job applications for SUPERVISING PARK RANGER Interviews will take place the week of July 13, 2026. Job offers will be made the week of July 27, 2026. This position is eligible for appointment at step 1, $72,280.00 annually

County employees are subject to the County Promotion Rule for Step Placement in Accordance with Compensation Ordinance 1.3.5. Future Salary Increases ** June 2026 - 5.37% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + 1.87% Market Adjustment) ** June 2027 - 4.87% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the- Board + 1.87% Market Adjustment) The County of San Diego is now accepting applications for Supervising Park Ranger. Employees in this second-line supervisory job class are responsible for providing on-site management, administration, safety, rule enforcement, and maintenance of a major County park and recreational facility

See additional information on the Department of Parks and Recreation. Hiring Process and Timeline: The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. i.

Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. ii.

Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results. iii. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies. Minimum Qualifications 1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S

college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency in parks and recreation management, natural resource management, cultural resource management, anthropology, history, biology, archaeology, public administration, business administration, recreation administration, or a closely related field; AND, one (1) year of full-time paid experience as a Senior Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area; OR, two (2) years of full-time paid experience as a Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area, one (1) year of which included responsibility for leading or supervising auxiliary or temporary staff and volunteers, or conducting special programs and activities; OR, 2. Sixty (60) semester units of college-level coursework from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency toward a four-year degree in one of the fields listed above; AND, two (2) years of full-time paid experience as a Senior Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area; OR, three (3) years of full-time paid experience as a Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area, one (1) year of which included responsibility for leading or supervising auxiliary or temporary staff and volunteers, or conducting special programs and activities; OR, 3

Three (3) years of full-time paid experience as a Senior Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area; OR, 4. Four (4) years of full-time paid experience as a Park Ranger in a park, forest, natural recreational, or historical area, one (1) year of which included responsibility for leading or supervising auxiliary or temporary staff and volunteers, or conducting special programs and activities. Note: Employees in this job class may be required to reside in a county-owned dwelling during duty periods.

Read the Supervising Park Ranger for a complete job description including essential functions, knowledge areas, skills, abilities, essential physical characteristics, and working conditions for this class. Blind Applicant Screening The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision.

Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview.

Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application. Conditions of Employment As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.

Current County employees may be excluded from this process. Evaluation The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a nine (9) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire. Accommodation Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis.

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization.

Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans. Veteran's Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience. This tool can help. Please see the Military Skills Translator page to access the tool.

Strategic Plan The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations.

While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov) (Download PDF reader) (Download PDF reader). Disaster Service Worker Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers

The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law. Diversity & Inclusion The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.