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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

This is a full-time, fully-commissioned law enforcement position protecting the patrons, staff, and property of 105 park facilities and 75+ miles of recreational trails. The Park Ranger division is ...

Park Ranger

Springfield, MO · On-site

$45K - $81K/yr

This is a full-time, fully-commissioned law enforcement position protecting the patrons, staff, and property of 105 park facilities and 75+ miles of recreational trails. The Park Ranger division is ...

... a full-time Ranger Sergeant. The purpose of this position is to supervise and assist administering park patrol, outdoor education, investigations and traffic regulation activities, under the ...

Ranger Sergeant

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

... a full-time Ranger Sergeant. The purpose of this position is to supervise and assist administering park patrol, outdoor education, investigations and traffic regulation activities, under the ...

Golf Course Worker

Springfield, MO · On-site

$45K - $57K/yr

Springfield, MO Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 082126 Department: Parks Opening Date: 08/21/2026 ... Join the Springfield-Greene County Park Board as a Golf Course Worker . Assist in the construction ...

Full Time Park Ranger information

See Missouri salary details

$11

$19

$37

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time park ranger in Missouri is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.05 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 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 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 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.

Is it hard to get a job as a full time park ranger?

Securing a full-time park ranger position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education, such as a degree in environmental science or natural resource management, along with experience in outdoor or conservation work. Candidates typically need to pass background checks, obtain certifications like CPR or first aid, and demonstrate strong communication and problem-solving skills. The hiring process may involve multiple interviews and assessments, making persistence important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Missouri are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Missouri are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,312 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

$45K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Protect patrons, staff, and property of park facilities and recreational trails.

  • Communicate with law enforcement agencies and other groups as part of law enforcement duties.

  • Work flexible shifts based on staffing needs and special events.


City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The Springfield-Greene County Park Board is looking for Park Rangers. This is a full-time, fully-commissioned law enforcement position protecting the patrons, staff, and property of 105 park facilities and 75+ miles of recreational trails. The Park Ranger division is committed to providing quality service through personal integrity, fairness, communication, and sense of community pride.

Rangers will be in communication with the Greene County Sheriff's Office, Springfield Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and crime lab, the Juvenile Justice Department and other specialty law enforcement agencies and groups. This is a great opportunity to work with a highly experienced team of professionals dedicated to providing the safest parks in Missouri. Positions will work a semi-set shift determined by the department, but candidate will need to be flexible based on staffing needs and special events like the Turkey Trot, & Harvest Fest...just to name a few

This position will be open until filled. Applications received by August 13, 2026 are guaranteed review. Benefits include: Generous paid leave Paid pension retirement Paid health insurance and MUCH MORE.

Click here. About the Springfield-Greene County Park Board The Springfield-Greene County Park Board strives to provide the very best in parks and recreation facilities, programs, events, and services to our community. In doing so, we will make a positive impact on the overall quality of life, health, environmental, social, and economic aspects for our resident families and visitors alike.

The Park Board system includes 105 parks sites, ranging from neighborhood playgrounds to multi-use recreational facilities to trails and natural resource areas. The Park Board is proud to be fully accredited, ranking among the top 2 percent of parks and recreation agencies in the country, as well as a recipient of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal Award and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. You may learn more about our department at http://www.parkboard.org

Leadership Philosophy The City of Springfield's leadership culture is grounded in processes, relationships, and trust. Leaders across the organization operate within the principles of The Trust Edge Framework, which emphasizes: Clarity, Compassion, Character, Competency, Commitment, Connection, Contribution, and Consistency These principles guide how we work together, build relationships, and serve our community. Qualifications and Requirements Experience, Education, and Training for Park Ranger: Must be a high school graduate or have passed the high school equivalency exam, 21 years of age, a United States Citizen; AND Have two years of law enforcement experience.

ADDITIONALLY Candidates who possess at least 12 months of experience as a Park Ranger Recruit with the Parks Department, including completion of the Springfield Police Department's full Police Academy, qualify for Park Ranger. Must possess POST Class A license (if candidate does not possess a Missouri POST Class A, but possesses law enforcement certification through another state, candidate may participate in the hiring process while seeking reciprocity through Missouri POST). Must be current in P.O.S.T

continuing education requirements up to prior calendar year. Must pass Missouri state exam and maintain POST requirements, and maintain good-standing and eligibility as a Commissioned Officer. Possess a valid driver's license.

Possess or ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification within probationary period. Park Ranger division employees must meet and pass requirements and maintain eligibility as a Commissioned Officer. This posting has the ability to be underfilled as a Park Ranger Recruit, If no qualified applicant applies at the Park Ranger level by the deadline.

Experience, Education, and Training for the Park Ranger Recruit Must be a high school graduate or have a G.E.D. AND 30 semester credit hours from an accredited college or university OR Class A P.O.S.T. certified peace officer or currently enrolled in a Class A P.O.S.T

program with successful passing of P.O.S.T. exam within six months of application deadline OR Two (2) years of experience as a Police Service Representative OR Two (2) years of experience as a Traffic Services Officer OR Two (2) years of experience as a 911 dispatcher and/or telecommunicator OR Two (2) years of active duty military service with an honorable discharge OR Four (4) years of honorable military service in national guard or armed forces reserves OR Three (3) years of full-time successful ownership and management of a business within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment as a correctional or detention officer within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment as a licensed professional security or private security contractor within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment working in the professional trade industry within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment in the last five (5) years providing paraprofessional work experience to the public or community in one of the following fields: social services, health care services, and/or education PREFERRED Law enforcement experience and/or education preferred, but not required. Licensing/Certification Must be certified through the Missouri Department of Public Safety as a peace officer within twelve (12) months of hire date; Must pass state exam and meet and maintain P.O.S.T

requirements. Possess a valid Driver's License. Possess or ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification within probationary period.

Functions Park Ranger: (Salary Range $22.05/hr - $39.19/hr) For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the Park Ranger job description. If filled as a Park Ranger Recruit - Park Ranger Recruit: (Salary Range $20.41/hr - $32.87/hr) For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the Park Ranger Recruit job description. Other Requirements Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.


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