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Full Time Park Ranger Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

LTE Park Ranger (Brule)

Brule, WI · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

The park ranger is primarily responsible for facilitating customer service, facility and grounds ... full-time work hours and seasonal schedules. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. 4) ...

Ranger @ Sand Valley

Nekoosa, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

As a Ranger at Sand Valley, you'll help guide the pace and flow of play while offering friendly ... Employee Assistance Program - Canopy Classification * Full-Time Seasonal or Part-Time Seasonal ...

Ranger @ Sand Valley

Nekoosa, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

As a Ranger at Sand Valley, you'll help guide the pace and flow of play while offering friendly ... Employee Assistance Program - Canopy Classification * Full-Time Seasonal or Part-Time Seasonal ...

Full Time Park Ranger information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$20

$40

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time park ranger in Wisconsin is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $21.59 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Wisconsin? For Full Time Park Ranger jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Full Time Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Full Time Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time Park Ranger job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,379 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
LTE Park Ranger (Brule)

LTE Park Ranger (Brule)

State of Wisconsin

Brule, WI • On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


State Of Wisconsin rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 126 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
We are dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations; DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.
The Wisconsin DNR is hiring an LTE (Limited Term Employee) Park Ranger at our offices, in Brule, WI. The park ranger is primarily responsible for facilitating customer service, facility and grounds maintenance, and public safety within state designated parks, forests, trails, and other lands managed by the Wisconsin State Park System within the Bureau of Parks and Recreation Management.
Specifically, this position will provide recreation management, assistance with resource protection, as well as managing public safety through maintenance, facility management, and administrative activities within the assigned area. This position will maintain internal and external partnerships to include local government, local interests, and other key stakeholders to establish and promote management, public safety and contribute to protection goals. The position will assist with outreach, promotion, and public relations for the property.
This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies.
To see all opportunities currently available at DNR, follow this link: DNR (wisc.jobs) .
Position Summary
30% - Perform grounds maintenance activities, perform repairs on park structures, conduct routine building cleaning, safely operate and maintain park equipment, maintain trails and water distribution systems. Support education programs by providing interpretive services such as guided hikes, and other functional efforts of the park.
25% - Assist with the visitor assistance program, maintain public use areas, operate department camping reservation systems, monitor recreation facilities, maintain detailed reports, records, and statistics. Educate property visitors about user conduct rules, arboretums, and other education points at the property.
25% - Perform land management activities for the property, provide resource protection rule information to visitors, resolve visitor service issues.
20% - Conduct revenue activities (collect funds from self-pay stations, distribute fee violation notices, etc), disseminate information to public, and maintain records.
Salary Information
This position pays between $15.00-16.50 per hour and is in pay schedule and range 05-64. Compensation will be set in accordance with the State Compensation Plan.
Job Details
This is a Limited Term Employment (LTE) position and will not automatically lead to permanent state employment or be entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees.
More about LTE positions:
1) Offer a great opportunity to gain experience and learn about careers at the WI Department of Natural Resources.
2) Provide opportunities for individuals to enhance their resumes with skills learned on the job.
3) May accommodate flexibility for part-time or full-time work hours and seasonal schedules. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.
4) Allow individuals to hold multiple LTE appointments concurrently. If both LTE positions are at the same agency, the positions must be bona fide different positions. Each individual LTE position allows for maximum of 1039 hours in a twelve-month period.
Special Requirements:
1) Residency: To be considered for this position, you must be a resident of the State of Wisconsin.
A Wisconsin resident is a person who:
a. Has established a residence, as defined in s. 6.10(1), in this state not less than 10 days earlier;
b. Has resided in this state for not less than a total of one year out of the immediately preceding 5 years;
c. Is eligible to register to vote in this state; or
d. Is the spouse of a person meeting the requirements of par. (a), (b), or (c)." s.230.03(12), Wis. Stats.
2) Background Checks: The Department of Natural Resources conducts criminal background checks on final applicants prior to a job offer. Please note that a criminal charge or conviction on your record will not necessarily disqualify you from state employment. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the DNR does not discriminate on the basis of arrest or conviction record.
3) Eligible to work in U.S.: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. The Department of Natural Resources does not sponsor work visas at the time of hire or anytime during employment. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Employment Eligibility I-9 form upon hire.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The DNR is an equal opportunity employer that promotes and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
Qualifications
In addition to the required qualifications below, the selected candidate must be eligible to drive a state vehicle and meet the following criteria:
  • Have a valid driver's license
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a minimum of two years licensed driving experience
  • Have not had three (3) or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents in the past two (2) years
  • Have no OWI/DUI violations within the past year
Minimum qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers and the public
  • Customer service and cash handling experience
  • Knowledge, skills and experience of general maintenance operation
  • Ability to work independently, be self-motivated and punctual
  • Ability to work a modified schedule; nights, weekends, holidays, etc.

How To Apply
Click the "Apply for Job" button and follow the directions. You will be able to save your application as many times as needed and make edits up until the point you submit your application. Once you submit your application, you will not be able to make any updates to the application or any materials submitted.
Please note that the Wiscjobs system will time you out after 30 minutes of activity, so be sure to save your work often to avoid having to re-start the application process.
For any position-related questions, please feel free to contact Gervase.Thompson@wisconsin.gov
For technical questions and troubleshooting related to the Wisc.Jobs site, please visit Commonly Asked Questions. Keep in mind that technical assistance is only available Monday through Friday 7:45 am - 4:30 pm.
Your resume and letter of qualifications are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. For instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications and what should be included in these materials, click here .
Deadline to Apply
Applications must be received by 11:59pm, Central Time, on July 6, 2026 in order to be considered.

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