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National Park Ranger Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

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See Utah salary details

$10

$18

$36

How much do national park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for national park ranger in Utah is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a national park ranger?

National Park Rangers are federal or state employees responsible for protecting and preserving the natural and cultural resources within national parks. They perform a variety of duties, including law enforcement, search and rescue, fire management, environmental education, and visitor services. Park Rangers ensure the safety of visitors, enforce park regulations, and help maintain the ecological integrity of parklands. Their roles can be both physically demanding and highly rewarding, giving them the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful natural settings in the country.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a national park ranger?

To thrive as a National Park Ranger, you typically need a background in environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and specialized training. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and certifications such as EMT or law enforcement credentials are commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for education and conservation help rangers connect with visitors and handle diverse situations. These skills are crucial for protecting natural resources, ensuring visitor safety, and delivering meaningful educational experiences in the park.

How do national park rangers collaborate with other agencies and departments?

National Park Rangers often work closely with other federal, state, and local agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service, local law enforcement, and wildlife conservation groups. This collaboration can involve joint patrols, emergency response coordination, resource sharing, and participation in educational outreach programs. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, especially during search and rescue operations or wildfire management. Building strong relationships with other agencies not only enhances park safety and resource protection, but also provides rangers with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to broader career paths.

What is the difference between National Park Ranger vs Forest Ranger?

AspectNational Park RangerForest Ranger
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in environmental science, forestry, or related field; certifications in first aid and law enforcementSimilar credentials; often requires forestry or environmental degrees; law enforcement training may be needed
Work EnvironmentReserves, visitor centers, park patrols, educational programs in national parksForests, wilderness areas, conservation projects, forest patrols
Employer & IndustryNational Park Service, federal governmentU.S. Forest Service, state or federal agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in conservation and public safety

Both National Park Rangers and Forest Rangers work in natural environments, focusing on conservation, safety, and public education. While their work settings differ—parks versus forests—their required credentials and responsibilities overlap significantly, making them closely related roles within the conservation field.

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

Becoming a national park ranger typically requires relevant education or experience in natural resources, law enforcement, or hospitality, along with passing background checks and physical fitness tests. Competition can be high due to the desirable nature of the job, and candidates often need to demonstrate strong communication skills and a passion for conservation. Certification in first aid or CPR may also be beneficial.

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

The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Utah are:

What are popular job titles related to National Park Ranger jobs in Utah?

For National Park Ranger jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching National Park Ranger jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for National Park Ranger jobs in Utah are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for National Park Ranger jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most National Park Ranger job openings:

National Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Park Ranger job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,125 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Individual Placement - Needles Park Ranger

Student Conservation Association

Monticello, UT • On-site

$1.1K/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Share this stunning red rock wilderness with visitors from around the world. Help visitors plan their visit and discover more about this unique high desert landscape. Energetic, dependable people with a love for national parks are required. This position will serve Canyonlands National Park by: 1) Increasing visitor service and satisfaction. 2) Providing resource presence and protection. 3) Increasing visitor appreciation of and knowledge about park resources and values. Interns will: 1) Become knowledgeable about park resources and proficient at explaining them. 2) Impart accurate, compelling reasons for existing park regulations. 3) Develop a short interpretive program that effectively imparts resource, park and safety information to visitors.
Schedule
September 28, 2026 - November 21, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities include: -Staffing the visitor center desk to provide orientation, answer questions, and help visitors plan backcountry trips, 50%; -Developing and presenting formal and informal interpretive programs which may include patio talks, evening programs, and "pop-up" programs on trails, 10%; -Attending formal and informal training to learn about park resources and operations, 10%; - Roving scenic overlooks, park trails, and potentially 4WD roads to contact visitors.", 15%; -and Assisting park staff with various projects, 15%.
Marginal Duties
Canyonlands National Park is a dynamic work environment, and SCA members may be asked to assume reasonable duties and responsibilities in addition to those listed above.
Required Qualifications
Successful applicants will have: -Ability to work independently on assigned projects while being an engaged, collaborative member of a team; -Ability to maintain a positive attitude and consistently be courteous and polite to visitors; -Skill at oral communication and tactful discussion of controversial subject matter; -A valid state-issued driver's license and be at least eighteen years of age.
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
Preferred Qualifications
-Public Speaking (some experience); -Earth Sciences (some experience); -History (some experience); -Resource Management (some experience);
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Housing is a shared park apartment or house with private bedroom. Basic kitchen dishware/cookware and utensils are provided. You should bring your own bedding, towels, toiletries, and other needed personal items. Washer/dryer and workout facilities are available.
Location Description: Much of the park is wilderness and staff reside within the park, enjoying unparalleled access to explore this remote landscape. Hiking, backpacking and 4WDing are very popular here. The town of Monticello, UT is located 55 miles from the Needles District and is a small, rural town that provides basic services. There is a grocery store, gas stations and a few restaurants, as well as hotels to serve visitors to the area. Major services are available in Moab, Utah (72 miles), or Cortez, Colorado (100 miles).
Compensation
$1,100 - one time RT travel allowance
$600 - weekly living allowance
Free Housing
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Required
Additional Benefits
Defensive Drive Training
Interpretive Skills
Off-Road Vehicle Safety
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.

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