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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Gloucester County, VA

PARK RANGER

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$38K - $54K/yr

Gloucester, VA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 07272026-01 Department: PARK OPERATIONS Opening Date: 07/27/2026 Description Join our team as a dedicated Park Ranger and become a vital steward of our ...

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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 27, 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 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 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:

Full Time Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,608 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

PARK RANGER

Gloucester County, VA

Gloucester, VA • On-site

$38K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Salary: $38,866.00 - $54,409.00 Annually
Location : Gloucester, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 07272026-01
Department: PARK OPERATIONS
Opening Date: 07/27/2026
Description
Join our team as a dedicated Park Ranger and become a vital steward of our natural landscapes and outdoor recreational areas. In this energetic role, you will protect and preserve the environment, ensure visitor safety, and promote responsible outdoor enjoyment. Your leadership will foster a welcoming atmosphere for park visitors while maintaining the integrity of natural resources. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work outdoors, engage with diverse communities, and make a lasting impact on public land conservation.
Under general supervision, the Park Ranger 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.
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 full list of responsibilities and qualifications, please view: 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.
Join us in protecting our treasured outdoor spaces! This role offers an engaging blend of outdoor adventure, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and hands-on maintenance work-all within a vibrant team dedicated to preserving natural resources for future generations.
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
Gloucester County Government offers an excellent benefit package that includes health care coverage, leave program and retirement benefits for all regular full-time employees. Gloucester County participates in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) which requires a 5% mandatory contribution by employees.
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01
A complete job description for this position is available on the Human Resource Department "Job Description" web page. I have read and understand the complete job description including the education and experience, qualifications and special requirements for this position. I have attached my cover letter, resume and at least 3 professional references with the required information.
  • I acknowledge the above statement.
  • I do not acknowledge the above statement.

02
The supplemental questions are very important and will be used to determine if you meet the basic qualifications as listed on the job posting and in the job description. I acknowledge that I must complete the supplemental questions section in order for my application to be considered complete.
  • Yes
  • No

03
What is your current highest level of education completed?
  • I do not have a High School diploma or GED
  • HS Diploma or GED
  • Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher

04
Do you possess a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

05
This position requires First Aid, AED & CPR certification within 60 days of employment. Are you able to meet this requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

06
This position is physically demanding and requires the ability to exert up to 100 pounds of force regularly, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently. Are you able to meet this requirement with or without accommodation?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Describe any experience you have with a backpack blower, weed trimmer, edge trimmer, and any other grounds maintenance equipment to maintain landscape.
08
Describe your experience working outdoors with changing seasons (Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall). If none, enter N/A as your response.
09
Briefly describe your experience working with the public or in a customer-service oriented job. Be sure to indicate which employer the experience is related to. If none, enter N/A as your response.
10
Describe a specific example of what you have done to guarantee that customers were satisfied.
11
Describe your experience working with records management. Be sure to include the employer(s) to which the experience is directly related. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A as your response.
12
Provide the principles you use to define your work ethics and conduct? Please describe examples of how you apply those principles in the work environment.
Required Question

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