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Interpretive Park Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Fairfield, CA

Park Ranger

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$88K - $107K/yr

The Park Ranger plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing Fairfield's parks, open space, and ... interpretive programs. CLICK HERE to view the full Recruitment Brochure. IMPORTANT DATES Filing ...

Sacramento County, CA

Park Ranger

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$82K - $104K/yr

... interpretive programs, resource and wildlife protection, safety enforcement, pollution control ... Wear and maintain a designated Park Ranger uniform; including department issued safety equipment ...

County of Sacramento

Park Ranger

Sacramento, CA

$82K - $104K/yr

... interpretive programs, resource and wildlife protection, safety enforcement, pollution control ... Park Ranger uniform; including department issued safety equipment such as a duty/gun belt ...

All JobsInterpretive Park Ranger JobsInterpretive Park Ranger Jobs in California

Interpretive Park Ranger information

See California salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do interpretive park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for interpretive park ranger in California is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an interpretive park ranger?

An Interpretive Park Ranger is responsible for educating visitors about the natural and cultural resources of a park or historic site. They lead guided tours, present educational programs, and develop exhibits to enhance public understanding and appreciation. Their goal is to connect people to the environment and history through engaging storytelling and hands-on experiences. They may also assist with conservation efforts and visitor services.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an interpretive park ranger?

Interpretive Park Rangers spend their days developing and leading educational programs and tours, creating interpretive exhibits, and assisting visitors at information centers. They often conduct nature walks, present talks on wildlife or local history, and answer questions about park regulations and safety. Rangers may also collaborate with other team members on special events or volunteer projects, help monitor trail conditions, and support conservation efforts. The role offers a balance of independent tasks and teamwork while being actively engaged outdoors and interacting with the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an interpretive park ranger?

To thrive as an Interpretive Park Ranger, you need a background in natural or cultural resource management, environmental education, or a related field, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping, interpretive program planning software, and safety certifications like CPR/First Aid are commonly required. Outstanding public speaking, storytelling ability, and strong interpersonal skills set exceptional candidates apart in engaging diverse audiences. These competencies ensure effective education of visitors, promote conservation, and foster enjoyable park experiences.

How to become an interpretive park ranger?

To become an interpretive park ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring a college degree in fields like environmental science, education, or natural resources. Relevant skills include communication, public speaking, and knowledge of natural or cultural resources; certifications such as CPR or first aid can be beneficial. Applicants often undergo a competitive hiring process that includes background checks and may require experience in outdoor education or related fields.

Is it hard to get a job as an interpretive park ranger?

Getting a job as an interpretive park ranger can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education in environmental science, forestry, or related fields, along with experience in public education or interpretation. Candidates typically need strong communication skills, knowledge of park resources, and sometimes certifications such as CPR or first aid. The hiring process may involve multiple steps, including interviews and background checks, depending on the agency.

What are interpretive park rangers?

Interpretive park rangers are professionals who educate the public about natural, cultural, and historical resources within parks and protected areas. They lead guided tours, develop educational programs, and use tools like exhibits and presentations to enhance visitor understanding and appreciation of the environment.

What disqualifies you from being an interpretive park ranger?

Disqualifications for an interpretive park ranger typically include a criminal record, especially for serious offenses, lack of relevant education or experience in natural sciences or education, and inability to pass background checks. Additionally, poor communication skills, physical fitness issues, or failure to obtain necessary certifications such as CPR or first aid may also disqualify candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California?

The most popular types of Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California?

For Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Interpretive Park Ranger jobs?

Cities in California with the most Interpretive Park Ranger job openings:

Interpretive Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Interpretive Park Ranger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Park Ranger

City of Fairfield, CA

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$88K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary : $88,070.94 - $107,050.53 Annually
Location : Fairfield, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00056
Department: PUBLIC WORKS
Opening Date: 08/03/2026
Closing Date: 9/14/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: FEA
Description
The City of Fairfield invites your interest for the position of Park Ranger!
The Park Ranger plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing Fairfield's parks, open space, and recreational areas through public safety, resource stewardship, visitor services, and park operations. This role patrols City open space lands, Rockville Hills Regional Park, and the Dunnell property; supports visitors; assists with inspections, maintenance, and repairs; and helps coordinate volunteer and interpretive programs.
CLICK HERE to view the full Recruitment Brochure.
IMPORTANT DATES
Filing Deadline: Monday September 14, 2026
First Review of Candidates: September 15-28, 2026
First Interviews: Tentatively scheduled for late September/early October (in-person)
ABOUT FAIRFIELDFairfield, the heart of Solano County, is a diverse and growing community located halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento in the North Bay Area. With 24 parks, numerous bike trails and two championship golf courses, Fairfield is a great family community with just under 123,000 residents. It is a thriving business hub with notable international companies such as Jelly Belly, Clorox, Ball Metal, and Meyer Corporation. Fairfield offers a regional shopping center, a large auto mall, and is home to Travis Air Force Base, the County's largest employer. Bordered by farms and vineyards, the City's well-developed infrastructure and business-friendly attitude provide the foundation for strong growth and an enhanced quality of life.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
Estimated Total Compensation: $129,194 - $148,824*| Base Salary: $88,071 - $107,050
*The estimated total compensation includes base salary and the annualized value of employer-paid benefits and contributions, such as deferred compensation, medical/dental/vision insurance, retiree health contributions, and other applicable benefits. Actual compensation and benefit values may vary based on individual benefit elections, coverage levels, and length of service.
The position is represented by the Fairfield Employee's Association ("FEA") and offers a robust benefits package featuring generous retirement contributions and leave accruals. Key benefits include:
  • CalPERS pension (Classic 2.5% @ 55 OR 2% @ 62 for new CalPERS member)
  • Generous contributions to medical, dental, and vision plans
  • 3 medical carriers to choose from: Kaiser, Sutter Health, or Western Health
  • 50 hours of personal leave (cashable) annually, plus vacation and sick leave
  • City paid retirement health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) and life insurance
  • $75/month plus 1.0% of salary City paid deferred comp contribution (employee contribution is optional)
  • A 9/80 work schedule

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Education equivalent to graduation with a two or four-year college degree in Environmental Management, Range Management, Botany, or Park Management, Forestry, Natural Resources or closely related field is required.
Experience:
  • Three years of experience in regional park and open space management, operations and maintenance, at least one year of which must be a fulltime paid park ranger position, or in a comparable position with similar responsibilities.
    • This experience must include comprehensive training in park operations, such as training in visitor services, public safety, resource protection, facility and trail maintenance, emergency response, or park regulations and enforcement, etc.
  • Experience or training in wildland fire fighting and law enforcement resource management or related fields is desirable.

Licensing and Certification:
  • Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license is required and must be maintained throughout employment.
    • Possession of a valid equivalent is acceptable during the application process.
  • Possession of, or the ability to obtain within twelve (12) months of appointment, a Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) issued by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation is desirable when assigned duties involving vegetation management and pesticide application.
  • Must possess, or obtain within 6 months of being hired, a standard CPR card and a Standard First Aid card. However it is recommended the individual be a certified EMT.

Please to access the full job description on our Careers Page.
THE SELECTION PROCESS:
Based on the information provided in the application documents, the best-qualified applicants will be invited for further examination. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. Depending upon the number of applications received, the examination may consist of an application screening, written and/or practical exam, oral interview, or any combination.
HOW TO APPLY:
Candidates must submit an online application via NeoGov/Governmentjobs.com. of the closing date. If you have any difficulties submitting your online application, please call NeoGov'sApplicant Support Line at (855) 524-5627.
If you feel you will need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the testing/interview process, please contact Human Resources at (707) 428-7394 at least 1 week prior to the application deadline or examination date.
This recruitment search provided by Sequence Staffing.
The City of Fairfield is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism.
FULL-TIME/PRO-RATA POSITIONS - The City of Fairfield offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes City contribution toward the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and deferred savings; medical, dental and vision; life insurance; paid holidays, vacation, personal leave and sick leave. For a more detailed overview of the benefit package, please click on the following link: FEA Employee Benefits.*
PART-TIME POSITIONS - For benefits associated with part-time positions, please see the *
*Benefits, terms and conditions of employment may be amended or modified through the collective bargaining process.

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