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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger (Full Time, Non-Exempt) Application Closing Deadline: For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00pm on August 3, 2026 Hiring Range is $46,184 to $ 53,183 ...

$46K - $53K/yr

Park Ranger (Full Time, Non-Exempt) Application Closing Deadline: For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00pm on August 3, 2026 Hiring Range is $46,184 to $ 53,183 ...

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO · On-site

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

These are full-time, benefited opportunities to work within one of the largest and most diverse ... Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or ...

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO · On-site

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

These are full-time, benefited opportunities to work within one of the largest and most diverse ... Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or ...

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO · On-site

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

These are full-time, benefited opportunities to work within one of the largest and most diverse ... Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or ...

Full Time Park Ranger information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do full time park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time park ranger in Colorado is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time park ranger?

Full time park rangers are professionals responsible for protecting and managing national, state, or local parks and natural resources. Their duties often include enforcing park rules, conducting educational programs, maintaining trails and facilities, and ensuring visitor safety. Full time park rangers may also participate in wildlife conservation efforts and respond to emergencies within the park. They typically work outdoors in various weather conditions and may be employed by government agencies or private organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by full time park rangers, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Full-time park rangers often face challenges such as managing large crowds during peak seasons, responding to emergencies like lost hikers or medical incidents, and balancing administrative duties with fieldwork. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication and conflict resolution skills, staying physically fit for outdoor tasks, and familiarizing themselves with local wildlife and park regulations. Training is provided, but being proactive about learning safety protocols and visitor engagement techniques will help you succeed in this dynamic role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time park ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Park Ranger, you need knowledge of natural resource management, law enforcement, and first aid, often backed by a degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, two-way radios, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, public engagement, and problem-solving skills help you educate visitors and handle emergencies effectively. These skills ensure the safety of park visitors, protection of natural resources, and positive visitor experiences.

What is the difference between Full Time Park Ranger vs Part Time Park Ranger?

AspectFull Time Park RangerPart Time Park Ranger
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; certifications in first aid and CPR often preferredSame as full time, but may have less emphasis on certifications
Work EnvironmentFull schedule, often year-round in parks or recreation areasLess hours, seasonal or as-needed basis
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, parks, and recreation departmentsSame as full time, often for seasonal or part-time roles
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for job stability and benefitsCompared for flexibility and supplemental income

Full Time Park Rangers typically work year-round with full benefits, requiring similar credentials as part time roles but with more responsibilities. Part Time Park Rangers offer flexible schedules, often seasonal, with similar qualifications but fewer hours and benefits. The choice depends on your career goals and availability.

What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Full Time Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Full Time Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,191 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

$46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Invite a friend Back to job search About this Opportunity. Park Ranger (Full Time, Non-Exempt) Application Closing Deadline: For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00pm on August 3, 2026 Hiring Range is $46,184 to $ 53,183 annually based on qualifications, education and experience as it relates to the position. Position Summary: Under the supervision of the Senior Park Ranger, this position is responsible for enforcement of District park rules and regulations, working in wildlife and resource management, environmental education, public relations, property inspections, maintenance, and routine patrol.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with District user permits and special events. Performs duties in a manner consistent with the stated values of the organization. Essential Duties: Performs all patrol functions, inspects district user permits, and enforces park rules and regulations through visitor contact.

Inspects, monitors, and enforces rules and regulations pertaining to District user permits including special events and temporary access permits. Patrols in a variety of outdoor landscapes including parks, trails, and open spaces. Develops positive public rapport by directing and assisting park visitors in the proper use and enjoyment of the parks, trails and open spaces.

Responsible for encroachment inspections on District property. Exercises good judgment and proper safety precautions and practices at all times. Participates in field work in district parks, including but not limited to vegetation removal, wildlife management, park inspections, trail maintenance, traffic control, equipment maintenance, and general maintenance.

Assists Lead Rangers with the daily work activities of seasonal staff and volunteers as assigned. Administers and adheres to District policies. Operates a vehicle and/or bicycle safely and in compliance with all traffic laws.

Recognizes emergency and dangerous situations by reacting quickly and calmly; administers first aid as needed. Coordinates with public safety personnel to provide direction, access, and closures needed for emergencies. Responds to sick or injured animals; removes carcasses of dead animals Prepares a variety of reports including but not limited to daily logs, incident/accident reports, graffiti reports, and weekly and monthly ranger operation reports according to District procedures in a timely manner.

Responds tactfully, respectfully, and in a timely manner to inquiries and problems in person, through email, or phone by providing helpful information and explanations in-line with District policies and procedures. Thoughtfully handles confrontational or stressful interactions. Develops and maintains professional relationships with District employees, vendors, various outside user groups and agencies to coordinate their programs, needs, requests, and special events.

Attends and participates in staff meetings, trainings, and orientations. Attends work on a regular, reliable and punctual basis. This position is expected to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and some holidays throughout the year.

This job description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive duties of the position. Incumbents may be required to follow any other instructions, and to perform any other related duties, as may be required. Education and/or Experience: High school diploma or equivalent.

Associate's Degree in Resource Management or related field preferred. One (1) year of experience as a Park Ranger or in a related field. Any combination of experience, training and education that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position may be considered.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Requirements: First Aid/CPR certification or the ability to obtain upon hire. Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification or the ability to obtain upon hire. OC spray certification or the ability to obtain upon hire (in-house training available).

Collapsible baton certification or the ability to obtain upon hire (in-house training available). Must possess a valid Colorado Driver License or the ability to obtain upon hire and maintain an acceptable driving record. Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: General knowledge of ecological principles and resource management techniques.

General knowledge in law enforcement as it pertains to park and resource management. The ability to enforce park rules with and without the use of municipal citations The ability to maintain personal and public safety while on duty. Must be able to patrol from a vehicle, on a bicycle, and on foot.

Ability to effectively work with other employees and volunteers. General knowledge of safety, and ability to perform emergency first aid procedures. Ability to resolve customer complaints and escalated situations.

Must have excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software including Excel, Word, Outlook and Publisher. Must be highly motivated and take direction well.

Ability to work independently and with a team in a fast-paced environment with emphasis on accuracy and timeliness. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, and interact with others in a professional manner. Ability to work a varied schedule including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays throughout the year.

Material and Equipment Used : Regularly uses standard office equipment including a personal computer, phone, printer, TV projector, and copier. Regularly uses a police radio, collapsible baton, and OC spray. Other equipment may include mule work cart with dump bed, ATV, line trimmers with saw blades and other hand and power tools, hand-held data collection and GPS tools and software, trailers, and live animal traps.

Also uses and operates first-aid supplies and equipment. May be required to drive a personal and/or District motor vehicle to various District and off-site facilities. Working Environment : Performs work indoors in a busy nature center/office environment subject to interruptions.

Performs work outdoors subject to variable weather conditions, ecosystems, and landscapes. Outdoor working environments can be wet, humid, extreme in temperature variations, and with loud background noises. May also require biking, canoeing, wading, or swimming in moving water Requires handling small animals, sick and injured wildlife, and removal of wildlife carcasses.

Works in a variety of settings including daytime, night-time, in dark areas, and with wildlife. May work with pesticide chemicals. Works with power equipment with moving mechanical parts, and animal traps.

This position will be subject to the inherent interpersonal and physical stresses of park rule enforcement and riding extended hours in a patrol vehicle, as well as walking or standing for an extended period of time Physical Requirements : Stand, walk/hike long distances, and sit for extended periods. Must be able to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, equipment, tools or controls; reach with hands and arm. Frequent hand/eye coordination to operate personal computer and office equipment.

Requires the ability to operate a motor vehicle, ATV, UTV and E-bike. Must be comfortable with picking up small plants and animals. May occasionally climb, crawl, squat, kneel, stoop, crouch, and lift up to 100 lbs.

Vision for reading, recording and interpreting information. Vision acuity to see close-up and at a distance with the ability to adjust focus allowing a broad field of vision. Speech communication and hearing to maintain clear and effective communication.

Must understand and be understood. This list is not all-inclusive and represents examples of the work environment and physical demands. We've Got You Covered.

South Suburban Offers: Competitive medical, dental and vision plans Disability and life insurance Flexible spending accounts (FSA's) Happy Employees Are the Best Employees South Suburban provides an employee assistance program at no cost that includes: counseling, financial planning, legal assistance, and much more. Our Employee Wellness Program gives covered staff the ability to reduce their medical premium by $390 annually Take Time Away to Do What You Enjoy 10 paid holidays per year 4 personal days per year Earn 11.5 paid vacation days per year Paid sick leave to rest, recover, and take care of yourself We've Got Your Back Up to 9% 401(a) Employer contribution/match that vest after 3 years of service Trainings to grow your professional and personal skill set Tuition Reimbursement Program that covers up to $2,500 per year Play Where You Work Employee engagement is a priority at South Suburban. Staff gatherings have included: pictures with the Stanley Cup, Chili Cook-Off, Ice Cream Social, Shuffleboard Tournament, Employee Appreciation Luncheon, just to name a few Monthly wellness challenge opportunities and staff recognition honors We LOVE Our Facilities and So Will You: Free daily admission to recreation centers, tennis courts, ice rinks and swimming pools 50% off food at South Suburban restaurants $5 to $10 for nine holes of golf at four different courses SSPRD offers an excellent comprehensive benefit package including but not limited to: Medical/Dental/Vision

For a more detailed overview please view the Benefits Guide for Full-Time Employees About Us Our mission is to foster healthy living through stewardship of the environment, parks, trails, and open space by providing recreational services and programs. We serve residents in Bow Mar, Columbine Valley, Centennial west of I-25, Littleton, Lone Tree and Sheridan and unincorporated portions of Douglas, Jefferson and Arapahoe counties. We operate four full-service recreation centers, golf courses, outdoor pools and restaurants, two ice centers and miniature golf courses, a botanical garden event center, a BMX track, a sports dome, batting cages, an entertainment center, a hotel and a nature center.

In addition, we maintain nearly 3,800 acres of developed and open space land, including 119 multi-purpose athletic fields, more than 100 parks, nearly 80 miles of trails, 60 playgrounds, 56 tennis courts, and the 880-acre South Platte Park.