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$23

How much do internship forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship forest ranger in the United States is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Forest Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Forest Ranger, you typically need knowledge of environmental science, basic fieldwork techniques, and at least a high school diploma or enrollment in a related college program. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and data collection tools is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help interns collaborate with colleagues and engage with the public. These skills and qualifications are important for effectively supporting conservation efforts and maintaining the safety and health of natural resources.

What types of projects or tasks are commonly assigned to Internship Forest Rangers, and how do they contribute to conservation efforts?

Internship Forest Rangers often participate in fieldwork such as trail maintenance, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and assisting with public education programs. These tasks provide hands-on experience in resource management and directly support conservation goals by preserving ecosystems and promoting responsible land use. Interns may also collaborate with permanent staff and volunteers, learning about teamwork and communication in outdoor settings. This experience is valuable for building practical skills and making professional connections in environmental management.

What does an Internship Forest Ranger do?

An Internship Forest Ranger assists professional forest rangers with tasks like patrolling park areas, educating visitors, maintaining trails, and supporting conservation efforts. Interns may also help monitor wildlife, conduct environmental surveys, and participate in fire prevention activities. This role provides hands-on experience in natural resource management, environmental education, and law enforcement within forests or parks. It’s an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates interested in forestry, environmental science, or related fields.

What is the difference between Internship Forest Ranger vs Forest Technician?

AspectInternship Forest RangerForest Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some internships may require coursework in environmental scienceAssociate's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation areas; supervised internshipFieldwork and office tasks in forestry management and conservation projects
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, parks, conservation organizations; internship position for studentsGovernment agencies, forestry services, environmental organizations; full-time or part-time role

Internship Forest Rangers typically participate in supervised fieldwork to gain experience in forest management, while Forest Technicians perform more technical tasks in forestry operations. Internships are often temporary and educational, whereas Forest Technicians are employed in ongoing roles with specific responsibilities.

More about Internship Forest Ranger jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Forest Ranger jobs? Cities with the most Internship Forest Ranger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Ranger jobs? The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Forest Ranger jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Forest Ranger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Internship Forest Ranger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Forest Ranger jobs are:
Internship Forest Ranger jobs near you

Sierra National Forest Wilderness Ranger Intern

Career Site

Prather, CA

$450/wk

Temporary

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Wilderness Ranger Interns are integral members of the Wilderness team, learning and practicing necessary skills under the guidance of experienced Wilderness Rangers. Interns become proficient in Leave No Trace principles and help communicate those ethics, along with forest rules and regulations, to educate forest visitors. They work as members of a trail crew, using traditional forestry tools, trail maintenance theory and techniques to maintain trails. Interns also help inventory and rehabilitate campsites, pick up trash, install and maintain signage, collect data, and produce trail reports. Every summer Wilderness Rangers contribute to the conservation of wilderness resources and help facilitate recreational use on the Sierra National Forest.

Location

Prather,CA

Schedule

June 1, 2026 - September 4, 2026 (14 weeks)

(12-week option may be available as well - please inquire during interview)

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Offer an interpretative service to Forest Visitors regarding rules, regulations and best practices
  • Trail Maintenance, including, but not limited to: using a crosscut saw as part of a team to clear down trees from trail corridors, building and maintaining erosion control features, cutting back overgrown brush, moving rocks, debris, and repairing tread
  • Rehabilitation of campsites and popular use areas.

Marginal Duties

  • Successful completion of required training as needed
  • Performing inventories, collecting data and producing trail reports
  • Installation and maintenance of signage

Required Qualifications

  • No prior experience or education is required.
  • It is a physically strenuous position: the ability to backpack, self-supported with tools, and work in steep terrain at high elevation for up to 8 days at a time is required.
  • Must have the ability to communicate effectively with both coworkers and members of the public.
  • Vehicle needed to get between the office and housing. All travel to work sites will be in a government vehicle.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Hiking, backpacking or other wilderness travel experience.
  • Basic computer and office skills.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Government housing is provided for non-local candidates

Compensation

  • Living allowance - $450/week
  • Round Trip Travel Allowance- $1,100
  • USFS Housing Provided on site

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits

Bear Safety

First Aid/CPR

Interpretive Skills

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.

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