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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger 3

Saint Paul, OR · On-site

$4.3K - $6.5K/wk

Your New Role As a permanent, full-time Park Ranger 3 , you will lead a major program or facility at the management unit, park district, or regional level with a high degree of independence and ...

Park Ranger

Astoria, OR · On-site

$4.3K - $5.2K/mo

Park Ranger $ 4,326.57 TO $5,258.97 per month Variable schedule, 5 consecutive days totalling 40hrs ... Five non-partisan elected Commissioners set policy and appoint a full-time County Manager, who is ...

Full Time Park Ranger information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$21

$41

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

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time park ranger in Oregon is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a park ranger job?

Getting a full-time park ranger position can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education, such as a degree in natural resources or environmental science, along with experience in outdoor or conservation work. Candidates typically need to pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and sometimes obtain certifications like CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and knowledge of park regulations also improve chances of hiring.

What are full time park rangers?

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.

How to become a full time park ranger?

To become a full-time park ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in outdoor or conservation work, and often a background in law enforcement or natural resource management. Many positions require passing a background check, physical fitness tests, and obtaining certifications such as CPR or first aid. A bachelor's degree in environmental science, forestry, or a related field can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.

Do park rangers work full time?

Full-time park rangers typically work 40 hours per week, often including weekends, holidays, and sometimes evenings, depending on the park's needs. They may also work seasonal or part-time hours during peak visitor times or for specific projects.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Full Time Park Rangers typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial fishing, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or business acumen rather than formal education. Most jobs paying this amount rely on experience, performance, or physical demands rather than educational credentials alone.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Oregon? For Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Full Time Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Full Time Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Park Ranger 3

Park Ranger 3

State of Oregon

Saint Paul, OR • On-site

$4.3K - $6.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Oregon rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 50 rated states


Job description

Initial Posting Date:
06/24/2026
Application Deadline:
07/08/2026
Agency:
Parks and Recreation Department
Salary Range:
$4,312 - $6,581
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Park Ranger 3
Job Description:
Champoeg State Heritage Area - Oregon State Parks
Near Portland, Oregon
Welcome Statement
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is proud to care for Oregon's extraordinary landscapes and rich cultural history. The department serves its visitors and all Oregonians through its properties and programs, and recognizes that the state's resilience and beauty are strengthened by its diverse population. Oregon State Parks are public spaces where all are welcome. We value and serve everyone, and we are committed to providing safe and equitable access to state parks and agency programs. The department will not tolerate racism, harassment, discrimination or intimidation in any form.
Your New Role
As a permanent, full-time Park Ranger 3, you will lead a major program or facility at the management unit, park district, or regional level with a high degree of independence and technical expertise. This position requires advanced skills in areas such as resource interpretation, cultural or natural resource restoration, complex utility operations, maintenance programs, park rule enforcement, and visitor services.
In this role, you will coordinate activities across management unit boundaries and serve as a mentor to both permanent and seasonal staff throughout the region. You will provide guidance and training in specialized skills essential to the maintenance and operation of OPRD programs and properties.
For a complete review of the position and responsibilities please click here.
What's in it for you:
An exciting opportunity to help millions of visitors connect with the top state parks across America; working alongside a dedicated, skilled, and passionate team of professionals. Additional benefits include:
  • Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, and a competitive benefits package
  • Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.

Minimum Qualifications:
Five years of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping);
OR
An Associate's degree in Park and Recreation Administration or Natural Resource Management or Environmental Studies and 3.5 years of visitor services experience (e.g., rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping);
OR
A Bachelor's degree in Park and Recreation Administration, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Studies or a related field and 2 years of visitor services experience (e.g. rule enforcement; interpretation such as education and environmental awareness programs; special events and activities; etc.) AND/OR maintenance experience (e.g., construction trades, landscaping).
Special Requirements:
  • To be hired, a criminal record and driving record check must be completed that meets OPRD Criteria at the time of hire, and throughout employment while also maintaining a valid driver's license.

Desired Attributes:
  • Experience leading, mentoring, and training coworkers, volunteers, and work crews in park maintenance, operations, and resource interpretation.
  • Humble, open-minded, and committed to public service.
  • Dedication to encouraging collaboration and teamwork, and a spirit of selfless service.
  • Experience building positive relationships with community partners, stakeholders, government employees, and coworkers.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of operational procedures, plans and activities, and recommending changes for improvement.
  • Experience developing, coordinating, evaluating, and presenting interpretive content and special events to school students, visitors, and the public.
  • Proficient in all duties of a Park Ranger such as operating a campground, day-use area operations (special events, reservations, weddings, etc.), conflict resolution and park rule enforcement, park maintenance (including landscaping, plumbing, carpentry, and equipment operation and basic maintenance), restroom cleaning, park resource interpretation, and new employee and host orientation.
  • Experience leading safety programs, facility and equipment safety inspections, and supporting and encouraging safe work practices.

How to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications and desired attributes listed above, consistency of information, and professional communication.
  • Use the "My Experience" section in your Workday candidate profile to provide a detailed overview of your work history, experience, and skills, demonstrating how you meet the minimum qualifications and any of the desired attributes listed above. What You Need to Know to Get the Job
  • The information in your application will be used to complete a pay equity assessment to determine salary placement upon hire. Please see the link here to our Pay Equity Project
  • External Applicants: Click on the "Apply" link and submit your application. View this video or this knowledge article for assistance.
  • Internal Applicants (Current State of Oregon employees): Apply via your employee Workday account. View this knowledge article for help.
  • Veterans: We value the dedication of Veterans! Take advantage of Veterans' Preference by submitting the required documentation at time of application. The requirements can be found on the Veterans' Resources page under "Qualifying for Veterans' Preference".
  • After applying, log in to your Workday account (application site) to see if you have any pending tasks or actions that need to be completed before the announcement closes. Save a copy of this job announcement for your reference.
  • Interviews are tentatively scheduled around July 22, 2026.

Additional Information:
  • This position is represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
  • This announcement may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.
  • Oregon Parks & Recreation Department does not offer visa sponsorships. Within three days of hire, all applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Justice Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department uses E-Verify to confirm that applicants are authorized to work in the United States.

Contact Information:
  • For questions about this position, contact hiring supervisor: David Figgins, email: David.Figgins@oprd.oregon.gov, phone: 971-239-9087.
  • For questions on application process, email: OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
  • Follow Oregon Parks & Recreation Department on
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Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

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About State of Oregon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Not a traditional company, the State of Oregon is a governmental entity that serves the citizens of Oregon, United States. Based in the capital city of Salem, its industry spans a wide range of public services from health care, education, and transportation, to natural resources, housing, and public safety. Founded with the admission of Oregon to the Union in 1859, it operates on the judicious use of finite resources to enhance the quality of life for present and future generation. Its primary mission is to serve the public through their core values of integrity, accountability, excellence, and equity.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salem, OR, US

Year founded

1859

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