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National Park Service Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sacramento County, CA

Park Ranger Assistant

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$37K - $45K/yr

... the Park Ranger Assistant provides assistance and support services to the County Regional Parks ... Principles and practices of customer service * Operation of modern office equipment Ability to

American Conservation Experience - EPIC

$750/wk

The ACE Members will assist the National Park Service with special interpretive programs at Scotty's Castle, and provide general visitor services and family programming at Furnace Creek. The members ...

Sacramento County, CA

Park Ranger Recruit

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$68K/yr

Wear and maintain a designated Park Ranger uniform; including department issued safety equipment ... Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer ...

American Conservation Experience

$750/wk

The ACE Members will assist the National Park Service with special interpretive programs at Scotty's Castle, and provide general visitor services and family programming at Furnace Creek. The members ...

Powdr

Groups Coordinator

Death Valley, CA

$22/hr

POWDR operates Stovepipe Wells under a long-term concession contract with the National Park Service. Stovepipe Wells in Death Valley National Park - Journey Beyond the Ordinary. Stovepipe Wells has ...

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National Park Service Ranger information

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How much do national park service ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for national park service ranger in California is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job as a National Park Service ranger?

Becoming a National Park Service ranger can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education, such as a degree in natural resources or related fields, and experience in outdoor or law enforcement roles. Candidates typically need strong communication skills, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid; hiring processes may include interviews and background checks.

What are some common challenges National Park Service rangers face when balancing conservation efforts with visitor engagement?

National Park Service Rangers often encounter the challenge of protecting natural and cultural resources while ensuring visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. This balance can be demanding, as rangers must enforce regulations to minimize environmental impact, educate the public about conservation, and respond to emergencies or violations. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are essential, since rangers frequently interact with visitors who may be unaware of park rules or the importance of preservation. Overcoming these challenges is rewarding, as it allows rangers to foster stewardship and appreciation for the parks.

What is a National Park Service ranger?

National Park Service Rangers are professionals who work for the National Park Service (NPS) to protect and manage the natural and cultural resources within national parks. They perform a variety of roles, including law enforcement, education, emergency response, and resource management. Rangers help ensure the safety of visitors, maintain park facilities, and provide guided tours and educational programs. Their work is essential to preserving the integrity and enjoyment of national parks for present and future generations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Park Service ranger?

To thrive as a National Park Service Ranger, you need a solid understanding of natural and cultural resource management, law enforcement, and public education, often supported by a degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, first aid certification, and federal law enforcement systems like NPS LE are commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to public service help rangers effectively engage with visitors and manage challenging situations. These skills ensure the protection of park resources, visitor safety, and a positive visitor experience.

Can I be a national park service ranger with no experience?

Becoming a National Park Service ranger typically requires some relevant experience or education in areas such as law enforcement, natural sciences, or hospitality. Entry-level positions may be available for those with minimal experience, but candidates often need to demonstrate skills like communication, physical fitness, and a knowledge of park regulations. Certifications such as CPR or first aid can also be beneficial.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for National Park Service Ranger jobs?

Cities in California with the most National Park Service Ranger job openings:

National Park Service Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Park Service Ranger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Supervisory Park Ranger (Interpretation)

US Department of the Interior

Ventura, CA • On-site

$104K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

You will serve as a Supervisory Park Ranger (Interpretation) in the Division of Interpretation & Education at Channel Islands National Park. The purpose of the position is to serve as an Acting Deputy Division Chief and manage, direct, and evaluate the park's complex interpretation, education, outreach, visitor services, public affairs, and public information.
This is a temporary promotion and/or detail not to exceed 1 year and can be extended up to 5 years.Qualifications:All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement - 08/07/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Competitive candidates must also meet Time-in-Grade requirements as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F.
For current Federal employees, if hours worked per week are not included on your resume, you must submit a non-award SF-50 as part of your application to be used to validate your work schedule and determine the amount of specialized experience that you will be granted. An award SF-50 will not be acceptable documentation for which to consider your amount of qualifying experience. For periods of time that reflect military service, the DD-214 or Statement of Service is sufficient to meet the work schedule requirement as the service dates will be reflected. For all other applicants who are not current federal employees, your resume must state either "full-time" (or "40 hours a week") or "part-time" with the number of hours worked per week to ensure proper crediting of specialized experience.

Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
EXPERIENCE: To qualify, you must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service (obtained in either the public or private sectors). Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience 1) Advise on interpretive and education matters; 2) Oversee implementation of program long and short-range plans; 3) Plan and coordinate year-round interpretive, educational, information, and volunteer programs; 4) Propose interpretive program goals and objectives that reflect a balance of themes, subjects, current issues, and initiatives; 5) Serve as subject matter expert on interpretive themes such as resource, cultural, or natural features unique to a park; 6) Direct the management and operation of a visitor center; and 7) Develop interpretive and media plans and projects. You must include hours per week worked.


Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:There is no substitution of education for experience at the grade level(s) of this announcement.Employment Type: OTHER

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