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Interpretive Park Ranger Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Interpretive Park Ranger information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do interpretive park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for interpretive park ranger in Oregon is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Interpretive Park Ranger position, and why are they important?

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.

What is an Interpretive Park Ranger job?

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 typical daily responsibilities for 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 is the highest paying interpreter job?

The highest paying interpreter jobs are often in specialized fields such as medical, legal, or technical interpretation, with freelance or agency-based interpreters earning higher rates. Certified interpreters with rare language skills and extensive experience can also command top salaries, especially in high-demand regions or for government and corporate contracts.

What does an interpretive park ranger do?

An interpretive park ranger educates visitors about natural and cultural resources within parks through guided programs, exhibits, and informational materials. They often lead tours, answer questions, and promote conservation efforts while working outdoors in various weather conditions. Certification in interpretation or environmental education is often preferred.

How hard is it to get a job as a park ranger?

Getting a job as an interpretive park ranger typically requires relevant education or experience in natural sciences, environmental education, or related fields, along with strong communication skills. Competition can be high, and applicants often need to pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and sometimes obtain certifications such as CPR or first aid. Having prior experience in outdoor work or visitor engagement can improve chances of hiring.

What is the highest paying park ranger job?

The highest paying park ranger jobs are typically supervisory or specialized roles such as Chief Ranger or Park Superintendent, which can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, and may include responsibilities like managing staff, budgets, and conservation projects.
What are popular job titles related to Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in Oregon? For Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Interpretive Park Ranger jobs in Oregon are:
Interpretive Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Interpretive Park Ranger job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Temporary. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
John Day Fossil Beds - Interpretive Ranger Individual Placement

John Day Fossil Beds - Interpretive Ranger Individual Placement

Northwest Youth Corps

Kimberly, OR • On-site

$9K/mo

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Northwest Youth Corps - 640 Hour
Individual Placement
National Park Service
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Kimberly, Oregon - 16 Weeks
Title: Interpretive Ranger Individual Placement (640 Hours)
Position Summary:
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is recruiting 1 (one) Interpretation and Education Individual Placements beginning in May/June 2026 and serving through September/October 2026 (16 weeks). The individual placements will be trained in interpretation skills and will work at the visitor center answering visitors' questions about the park's geology and paleontology. The individual placements will also help guests plan their visits to the three site units and encourage safe discoveries and experiences during their stay. Other duties will be roving to the other park sights to answer questions in the field, assisting with bookstore operations, and general upkeep of the facilities.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Visitor Center Operations (65%)
    • Duties include general orientation and information for visitors, assisting with the Junior Ranger program as well as providing interpretive pop-up/patio talks
• Roving/Outreach (20%)
  • Duties include on-site and virtual programming
• Classroom and Training (15%)
Required Qualifications:
  • Ages 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans)
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful, permanent resident
  • Must pass a background/driver check
  • Ability to work outdoors in remote settings during high temperatures, wind and on uneven
  • Willingness to work as part of a positive and collaborative
  • Public speaking skills, high quality customer service skills, and IT
  • Good written and verbal communication
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25
  • Current valid driver's license and clean driving
  • A passion for sharing the park and its resources with the public

Desired Qualification:
  • Experience in presenting informational or educational talks to the public.
  • Experience teaching and/or leading youth, conservation, reforestation and/or outdoor rec skills.
  • Ability to absorb and apply a great deal of information quickly and accurately
Duty Location:
Duties are performed within John Day Fossil Beds National Monument's three units located near Kimberly, Fossil, and Mitchell, OR. The main duty station is at the visitor center in the Sheep Rock Unit located near Kimberly, OR 97848.
Terms of Employment:
One individual placement will complete a term of service (16 weeks, 640 Hours), starting May/June 2026 through October/September 2026 for a total of 16 Weeks. The individual placement will average ## hours of labor per week, minus holidays.
Individual placements are responsible for providing their own personal transportation and food. Housing may be provided.
Program Benefits:
Individual placements will earn $9,600 living allowance dispersed on a monthly basis throughout the (16 weeks, 640 Hours). The living allowance are taxable.
Application Instructions
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Interviews: Will occur as qualified applications are received.
Type of position: Individual Placement
Service Dates: May/June 2026 - October/September 2026
Length of Term: 16 Weeks (640 Hours)
How to apply:
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references and completely fill out the application form found at
Please select "John Day Fossil Beds - Interpretive Ranger Individual Placement" when applying.
Additional Information
If you have questions about the position, please reach Northwest Youth Corps Internship Department at interns@nwyouthcorps.org or or Katheryn Sommer, Acting Chief of Interpretation & Education: or (541) 987-2333 x1237.
All job offers are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check (criminal history and driving history).

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