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Local Park Ranger Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... the park ranger team. This may include rule enforcement, wildlife management, environmental ... Works closely with local law enforcement as needed for backup support on issues requiring law ...

Local Park Ranger information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do local park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for local park ranger in Colorado is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be a park ranger without being a cop?

Yes, most park rangers are not law enforcement officers and do not carry weapons or have police authority. They typically focus on conservation, visitor assistance, and enforcing park rules, and some may have law enforcement training or certifications if they perform law enforcement duties. The specific requirements vary by park and agency.

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

Getting a job as a park ranger can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in environmental science, forestry, or a related field, 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. The hiring process may also involve interviews and assessments of knowledge about park management and safety procedures.

What are Local Park Rangers?

Local Park Rangers are professionals responsible for protecting and managing parks, natural reserves, and recreational areas within a specific locality. Their duties include enforcing park rules, educating visitors about conservation, maintaining trails and facilities, and ensuring the safety of both the environment and the public. They often lead educational programs, monitor wildlife, and assist in emergency situations. Park Rangers play a vital role in preserving natural resources and providing enjoyable outdoor experiences for the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Local Park Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Local Park Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental science, wildlife management, and public safety, often supported by a degree in a related field or relevant certifications. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and first aid or CPR certification is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help rangers educate visitors and handle conflicts. These competencies ensure the protection of natural resources, visitor safety, and positive public engagement in park settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Local Park Rangers in their daily work?

Local Park Rangers often encounter challenges such as balancing conservation efforts with public access, handling unexpected emergencies like lost visitors or wildlife encounters, and managing routine maintenance tasks with limited resources. They must also be prepared to educate the public on park regulations and environmental stewardship, which can require patience and strong communication skills. Additionally, adapting to changing weather conditions and working irregular hours are common aspects of the role.

How do I become a park ranger with no experience?

To become a park ranger with no experience, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain knowledge of natural resources and conservation. Volunteering or working in related outdoor roles can build relevant skills, and obtaining certifications such as CPR or first aid may improve chances. Entry-level positions often require passing a background check and physical fitness test.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A local park ranger typically earns less than $4,000 a week; high-paying jobs that do not require a degree include roles such as commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which often rely on experience, licenses, or certifications. These positions may involve specialized skills, sales commissions, or management responsibilities to reach such income levels.

What is the difference between Local Park Ranger vs State Park Ranger?

AspectLocal Park RangerState Park Ranger
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in first aid or law enforcementHigh school diploma; often additional certifications in law enforcement or emergency response
Work EnvironmentLocal parks, community parks, urban green spacesState parks, larger natural reserves, more remote outdoor areas
Employer & IndustryCity or municipal governmentState government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Local Park Rangers and State Park Rangers focus on protecting park resources, enforcing regulations, and assisting visitors. Local Park Rangers typically work in city parks and have similar certifications but may have a broader focus on community engagement. State Park Rangers often handle larger, more remote areas with additional law enforcement responsibilities. The roles share many credentials and work environments, but differ mainly in jurisdiction size and scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Local Park Ranger jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Local Park Ranger jobs in Colorado are:
SEASONAL - PT Park Ranger - Garden of the Gods

SEASONAL - PT Park Ranger - Garden of the Gods

City of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description / Position Overview Park Ranger Garden of the Gods - (Seasonal Positions) About the Job: Garden of the Gods Park seeks highly motivated, team oriented, and courteous individuals to help provide interpretation, environmental education, and insure compliance with park rules and regulations for our over 4.5 million annual visitors. Help protect one of the top municipal parks in the country. Job Type: Seasonal Work Schedule: (4) 10 hour or (5) 8 hour shifts totaling 40 hours per week

Hours worked will be between 9 am and 8 pm. Employees will be expected to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. (Normal work schedule will vary depending upon the needs of the department) Work Location: Garden of the Gods Park, Colorado Springs, Colorado This is a seasonal (at-will) position with benefits limited to those required by applicable state and federal laws, which include Worker's Compensation, Medicare, Unemployment Insurance, and PERA (Public Employees' Retirement Association).

Anticipated season is mid-May thru September (negotiable). Scheduled hours will vary based on department needs. Total hours worked will not exceed 1,500 annually.

Open until filled. As a SEASONAL - PT Park Ranger at Garden of the Gods, you will: Provide information and directions to park users Assure park users comply with park rules and regulations Perform resource and safety patrols while assisting park users as needed Issue notices of violations; contact police and rescue for assistance as needed Create, organize, and/or administer interpretive programs; conduct guided nature walks Work with volunteer and community groups Complete incident reports, compile daily statistics, and other routine documentation Operate work trucks, two-way radios Help maintain the cleanliness, appearance, and operational efficiency of the park Support special events in accordance with event plans Provide traffic and pedestrian control Other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally at all times with park visitors Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships Ability to provide excellent customer service skills Knowledge of local environment (geology and ecology concepts), attractions and recreational opportunities Knowledge of outdoor recreation, environmental education and natural resources Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED One year of experience in a customer service environment or natural resources. Possess, or obtain upon hire, and maintain a valid, non-probationary Colorado driver's license not subject to restrictions.

Possess or obtain within 30 days of hire - CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), BLS (basic life support), and Colorado Department of Transportation Flagger Certifications Preferred Qualifications The following qualifications are not required, but they are considered desirable. If you possess any of the preferred qualifications, please include specific details in your application. This information may be used to identify a top group of applicants.

College-level coursework in environmental studies, natural resources, park management, geology, biology, or related field can be substituted for work experience. Experience as a Park Ranger or similar role communicating rules and land management issues with park users Experience creating and delivering interpretive programs Additional Information Work is performed outdoors with possible exposure to extreme weather conditions, dust, and pollen This position requires the ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally; sit, stand, run, or walk for prolonged periods; stoop, climb, and bend frequently; and hike up to six miles Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Colorado Springs is committed to a welcoming culture that values our employees' unique individual qualities and fosters a welcoming environment where people want to be The City of Colorado Springs offers additional compensation depending on the position, area of assignment, and specific job assignments, including shift differential, pay differential, acting or lead, special assignment, hazard pay, longevity, cell phone allowance, uniform allowance, relocation, awards, standby, call out, compensatory time off, tuition, overtime, extra duty, incentive, holiday premium, proficiency, and vacation sell back. NOTE: This job announcement is not intended to include a complete listing of all responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the position.

The City does not sponsor applicants for work visas of any kind (including but not limited to F-1, H-1B or TN visas). Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Apply to Join Our Team Please visit the City of Colorado Springs Careers page and review our opportunities.

Click on Apply button to complete an online application for any position of interest. All job applicants will need to create a new login and online application (unless you already have a Government Jobs user ID and password). Completing your application in full, including the entire work experience section, will assist Human Resources in the applicant screening process.

Your application may not be considered if all of the information requested for each employer you list is not provided. Applicants may redact information from their resumes, certifications, transcripts, or any other additional application materials that identify the applicant's age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

We encourage candidates with out-of-state credentials to inquire about expedited processing of Colorado licensing with the Colorado Occupational Credential Portability Program. More information can be found at the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies Licensing Portability page Our Government Jobs application system does not allow you to edit your application after it has been submitted for a position. If you want to make changes, you may submit another application prior to the position's closing date and time listed in the job posting.

HR will review the last application you submit for a position. The City's job classifications, including physical demands and descriptions, can be found on the Colorado Springs Class Specifications page You can view the status of your application on the City of Colorado Springs Careers page. To be notified of future career opportunities sign up for job alerts on the Job Alerts page.