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Local Park Ranger Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Local Park Ranger information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$12

$20

$40

How much do local park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for local park ranger in Philadelphia, PA is $20.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $21.59 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 Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Local Park Ranger jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Local Park Ranger jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Local Park Ranger jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Local Park Ranger jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
Infographic showing various Local Park Ranger job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,367 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Park Ranger - Part-Time - REGION 3

Park Ranger - Part-Time - REGION 3

Montgomery County (PA)

Norristown, PA

$21 - $28.01/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY A Park Ranger provides public information and assistance, public safety, resource protection, interpretive programming and assists in light maintenance at all division facilities. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provides visitor services which include education and information regarding various topics such as recreational opportunities and safety. Observes, collects and reports information that affects division facilities and users.

Educates the public about all division Rules and Regulations and enforces as needed. Organizes and performs recreational and interpretative programming. Responsible for crowd and traffic control within division facilities/events.

Performs individual routine patrols by vehicle, bicycle, foot, utility vehicle and boat in a variety of weather conditions. Assists all local, county, state and federal agencies as needed. Performs daily vehicle/equipment check and completes daily patrol logs, incident reports, attendance counts and maintenance request forms.

Assists in light maintenance including but not limited to trash pick-up and removal, restroom cleaning and snow removal. Assists with special events and projects in any region. Assists in natural resource restoration projects as directed.

Provides emergency aid as trained for all visitors and contacts local EMS as needed. May supervise volunteers and/or community service workers. Required to take training as assigned.

Other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

Experience in resource protection, visitor services, outdoor education and/or emergency services preferred. Must be eighteen (18) years of age. Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent required.

Bachelor's Degree in Park Management/Administration, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences or related fields preferred. Must be able to read/write/speak English. Must project a pleasant and professional presence when interacting with the public.

Must possess a valid Driver's License, a satisfactory driving record and the ability to maintain one throughout employment. Successfully pass the PA State Police Criminal Record Check. Must possess good problem-solving ability and good judgment.

Must be able to complete assigned work within deadlines. Must be familiar with all pertinent PA Fish & Boat and PA Game Commission regulations as well as local ordinances. PHYSICAL DEMANDS PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to taste or smell.

The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands or arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and depth perception. Have the ability to climb, stoop, bend, reach, walk, sit or stand for long periods of time.

Must be able to lift at least up to fifty (50) pounds (repeatedly). Must be able to lift and use various pieces of hand held equipment, up to twenty (20) pounds, for prolonged periods of time. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn when applicable.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This position will be in the field. A Park Ranger may experience the following: Occasional exposure to chemicals, hazardous vegetation (poison ivy, etc.) and other hazards (animals, bees, etc.) when performing their responsibilities Exposure to inclement weather, extreme heat, cold, snow, ice and rain

Will work at various sites as assigned. Required to work weekends, evenings and holidays as needed. Be available for all emergencies outside of normal working hours.

Must wear provided uniform. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.