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Local Park Ranger Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Ranger

Newport, NC ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

The Campground Ranger position may include walking or patrol of the grounds of the campground ... to local, state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for ...

Ranger

Newport, NC ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Newport, North Carolina. What you'll do: The Campground ... to local, state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for ...

Police Officer I

Reidsville, NC ยท On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

... Park Ranger, and Patrol Divisions. An employee in this class performs a full range of general law ... Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances ...

Police Officer I

Reidsville, NC ยท On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

... Park Ranger, and Patrol Divisions. An employee in this class performs a full range of general law ... Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances, and policies of the police ...

Local Park Ranger information

See North Carolina salary details

$10

$18

$36

How much do local park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for local park ranger in North Carolina is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a local park ranger?

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?

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.

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.

How can I become a local park ranger with no experience?

To become a local park ranger with no experience, focus on gaining knowledge of natural resources, conservation, and public safety through volunteering or internships. Obtaining relevant certifications such as CPR or first aid can also improve your chances, and some positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification.

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

Becoming a local park ranger can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education such as a degree in environmental science or natural resource management, along with experience in outdoor or conservation work. Certification in first aid, CPR, or law enforcement may also be beneficial, and hiring processes typically include interviews and background checks.

What can disqualify you from being a local park ranger?

Disqualifications for a park ranger position often include a criminal record, especially for offenses related to violence or dishonesty, as well as a lack of required certifications such as CPR or first aid. Additionally, poor physical fitness, inability to pass background checks, or failure to meet age or education requirements can disqualify candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Local Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina?

For Local Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Local Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Local Park Ranger jobs in North Carolina are:

Infographic showing various Local Park Ranger job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,057 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Park Ranger II (Sworn)

Town of Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, NC โ€ข On-site

$56K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Description:

I. General Statement of Duties

Performs responsible public safety work in enforcing civil ordinances and animal control in the Town, including the beach area. A Park Ranger II is also eligible as a sworn law enforcement officer.

II. Major Duties and Responsibilities

An employee in this class is responsible for conducting a program of animal control in the Town, and for enforcing a variety of civil ordinances through issuing citations and informing the public of potential infractions. The majority of time is spent in the patrol of the Town and beach area for animals and for civil violations, answering calls and investigating complaints concerning stray, wild and/or domestic animals or for infractions or fights. Initiative is required in the effort to ensure that animal owners and the public comply with regulations, and considerable tact is necessary in dealing with the public in a variety of situations. Independent judgment must be exercised in deciding what action to take if animals cannot be readily captured.

A. Patrols the Town for stray animals; answers calls; investigates complaints and picks up stray animals; traps; takes apprehended animals to the shelter; enforces animal ordinances.

B. Patrols beach area and issues appropriate warning and citations; issues citations and tickets for violations of animal control ordinances and for ordinances in areas such as littering, illegal surfing, open containers, open beach fires, illegal diving or fishing from bridges or piers; answers questions and explains procedures for compliance.

C. Investigate cases of cruelty to animals and recommend appropriate action; takes wounded animals to veterinarians for care; testifies in court, when necessary, on a variety of cases and complaints.

D. Educates community on safe animal handling practices.

E. Takes care of animals at the shelter and transports to county.

F. Order supplies for the Park Ranger staff.

G. Operates a 4-wheel drive vehicle that is operable for beach patrol; animal handling equipment; sets traps and cages to collect wild and vicious animals.

H. Assists animal owners with wounded animals; disposes of dead animals.

I. Maintains completed records on activities; keeps logs on daily activities and calls.

J. Acts as a sworn law enforcement officer when required by the Police Department. Abides by CALEA standards.

K. Maintain operational readiness and stay updated with Town Ordinances and State laws.

L. Assists Town departments with activities as needed, including in weather emergencies and special events.

M. Duties may include assigning tasks, and assisting with schedules or on-call operations. Training new Rangers and ensuring ongoing skills are at required expectations.

N. Public facing role that includes acting as a liaison with outside organizations and the public.

O. Performs related duties as required.

Note that this role requires both animal control and law enforcement duties.

III. Controls

This position is under the Police Department. Work is performed under regular supervision of the Police Chief. This position is non-exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.



Requirements:

IV. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

A. Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances.

B. Working knowledge of law enforcement principles, practices, methods and equipment.

C. Working knowledge of safely capturing animals.

D. Skilled in the use of firearms.

E. Ability to act with sound judgment in routine and emergency situations.

F. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.

G. Ability to present effective court testimony.

H. Ability to deal constructively and tactfully with the public in enforcement and informational capacities and to maintain composure in stressful situations.

I. Ability to build and maintain cooperative and effective public relations with the citizens.

J. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and other public officials.

V. Physical Requirements

A. Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of standing, walking, hearing, kneeling, reaching, feeling, grasping, pushing, pulling, bending, climbing, crawling, fingering, and performing repetitive motions.

B. Must be able to perform medium work exerting up to 50-100 pound of force occasionally; 20 pounds frequently; and 10 pounds constantly.

C. Must possess the visual acuity to operate a police vehicle and distinguish details and differences when observing people, places, or things on patrol.

VI. Education and Experience

A. Graduation from high school

B. Completion of basic law enforcement training; possession of a Basic Law Enforcement Certificate; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

C. For assignment as an Officer II: possession of the appropriate certifications and other requirements as specified by the Town.

D. Park Ranger program or equivalent.


This position is a paygrade 18.