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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PARK RANGER

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$38K - $54K/yr

Gloucester County is currently seeking an individual for the position of full-time Park Ranger. Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of tasks in the day-to-day operation, maintenance ...

PARK RANGER

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$38K - $54K/yr

Gloucester, VA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 07272026-01 Department: PARK OPERATIONS Opening Date ... Gloucester County is currently seeking an individual for the position of full-time Park Ranger.

Full Time Park Ranger information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$20

$39

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time park ranger in Virginia is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.20 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Virginia? For Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Full Time Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Full Time Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,608 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

$38K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Gloucester County (New Jersey) rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

675th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Do you enjoy providing excellent customer service and sharing your passion for the outdoors. If you like working with people and ensuring our beautiful parks stay safe and attractive to our community, we are looking for you. Gloucester County is currently seeking an individual for the position of full-time Park Ranger.

Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of tasks in the day-to-day operation, maintenance and patrol of County Parks and related facilities. Work involves issuing park permits, ensuring compliance with park rules and regulations by park users, assisting individuals and groups using parks, and maintaining park property, equipment and buildings. Employee is responsible for the safety and security of parks and patrons.

Employee must exercise initiative and independent judgment in ensuring safety and security of parks. Employee must also exercise tact and courtesy in frequent contact with park patrons and the general public. Reports to the Park Supervisor for Operations.

The hiring salary for this position ranges from $38,866-$54,409 Job Highlights Patrols the park and related facilities to enforce regulations. Deals with the public concerning matters of park usage. Inspects parks for safety and maintenance concerns.

Participates in various fee collection for equipment and facility rentals, hunting and fishing licenses, and boat and canoe permits. Promotes good public relations with citizens using the park and recreation facilities. Opens and closes parks throughout the County.

Plans and instructs programs within and outside of Park. Answers telephone, screens calls, takes messages, responds to inquiries, and refers callers to appropriate source. Weighs and identifies fish caught by park patrons; responds to questions on game and fisheries laws.

Guides and directs part-time park employees, volunteers and court appointed workers as assigned; assists in training of new staff. Maintains activity and park attendance records, files permits and reservation requests, and performs other clerical support functions. Performs other duties as assigned.

For a complete job description: Park Ranger Qualifications High school diploma/GED. Two (2) years of experience in park operations and maintenance work. Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Special Requirements Possession of a valid driver's license; possess and maintain a driving record that meets established Gloucester County Driving Standards. Pass a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination; employee may be subject to subsequent physical examinations to ensure he/she meets job-related physical requirements. Possession of, or ability to successfully complete within sixty (60) days of employment, Red Cross-approved course in First Aid, AED, and CPR.

First Aid, AED and CPR certification must be maintained while employed by the County. Completion of National Association of State Boating Law Administrator approved boat-handling course. Possession of freshwater fishing license preferred.

To be considered for this position, your online application must include your resume and three (3) professional references. Professional references are individuals who can attest to your job related knowledge, skills and abilities while working or in a volunteer capacity and are not family or personally related. Professional references should include job title, company name and address, phone numbers and email address if available.

Gloucester County is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug Free Workplace


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