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Park Ranger Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Checking empty sites, remove trash and assist with site set ups. * Tag vehicles for removal by owner at unrented transient sites. * Follow safety procedures while performing duties. * Other duties as ...

Park Ranger/Dock Security

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$17.03 - $21.54/hr

Park Rangers patrol areas to insure safe and orderly use of park facilities, process registrations and accept fees, groom beaches, clean camp sites and assist in skilled maintenance activities.

Park Ranger Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$18

$34

How much do park ranger assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger assistant in Michigan is $18.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a park ranger assistant?

Park Ranger Assistants support park rangers in the management and protection of parks, forests, and other natural areas. Their duties often include helping with visitor services, maintaining trails and facilities, providing educational information, and assisting with conservation efforts. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of visitors and the preservation of natural resources. Park Ranger Assistants may work in national, state, or local parks, and their responsibilities can vary depending on the location and needs of the park.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a park ranger assistant?

To thrive as a Park Ranger Assistant, you need knowledge of environmental conservation, park operations, and relevant safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or coursework in natural resources or biology. Familiarity with GPS units, two-way radios, and park management software is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and customer service skills help you effectively interact with visitors and support park staff. These abilities are essential for ensuring visitor safety, preserving natural resources, and maintaining a positive park experience.

What are some common challenges faced by park ranger assistants during peak visitor seasons?

Park Ranger Assistants often experience increased workloads during peak seasons due to higher numbers of visitors, which can lead to challenges in maintaining park safety, providing quality customer service, and ensuring facilities remain clean and accessible. Managing large groups, responding to visitor queries, and assisting with emergencies or enforcing park regulations can become more demanding. Teamwork and effective communication with senior rangers and other assistants are essential to efficiently handle these busy periods and maintain a positive visitor experience.

Can I be a park ranger assistant with no experience?

Park ranger assistant positions often do not require prior experience, but having knowledge of outdoor environments, basic safety skills, and a valid driver's license can be beneficial. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and relevant certifications such as first aid or CPR may improve your chances of hiring.

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

Getting a job as a park ranger assistant can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, knowledge of conservation, and sometimes certifications such as CPR or first aid. Entry-level positions may have fewer requirements, but higher-level roles typically demand prior experience and a background in environmental science or related fields.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger Assistant jobs in Michigan?

For Park Ranger Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Park Ranger Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Park Ranger Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Park Ranger Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,458 per year, or $18 per hour.

Park & Recreation Ranger 6-E8 (Van Riper State Park)

State of Michigan

Lansing, MI

$21.39 - $30.08/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description This position participates in the day to day work activities of the unit with regard to the operations of Parks and Recreation Division administered facilities. The employee shall assist the Unit Supervisor/Lead Ranger in various administrative tasks as delegated with minimal supervision. The employee shall perform various types of operational and maintenance duties consistent with the operation of Parks and Recreation Division administered facilities.

This position will train and provide guidance to staff, maintain grounds, infrastructure and equipment, and perform other duties as assigned. The employee shall regard their personal safety, as well as the safety of co-workers and the public, as their personal responsibility. This position requires that the employee obtain and maintain a DNR Law Enforcement Commission.

As a requirement for this position, attendance at the Parks and Recreation Division Law Enforcement Academy and Ranger Operations Academy is required. These are two separate trainings typically totaling 12 weeks with courses intended to increase your physical ability to handle incidents, increase your knowledge of Parks & Recreation Rules as well as park operations. These trainings will require overnight stays in / at a learning facility.

Michigan DNR Commissioned Park and Recreation Ranger Requirements. Position Description Required Education and Experience Education Educational level typically acquired through completion of high school. Experience Park and Recreation Ranger 6 No specific type or amount is required.

Park and Recreation Ranger 7 One year of experience in a park or recreation setting, or in the construction trades. Park and Recreation Ranger E8 Two years of park and recreation experience, including one year equivalent to a Park and Recreation Ranger 7. Alternate Education and Experience Completion of at least 8 semester (12 term) college credits in natural resources, park management or outdoor recreation may be substituted for one year of experience as a Park and Recreation Ranger-E.

Completion of at least 15 semester (22 term) college credits in natural resources, park management or outdoor recreation may be substituted for two years of experience as a Park and Recreation Ranger-E. Additional Requirements and Information View the job specification at: https://www.michigan.gov/mdcs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdcs/JOBSPECS/P/ParkandRecreationRanger.pdf Accommodations If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the ADA coordinator for the agency that posted this position vacancy.


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