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Park Ranger Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do park ranger assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger assistant in Oregon is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 may improve your chances of hiring.

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.

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 or natural resource management, along with experience in outdoor or conservation work. Certification in first aid, CPR, and law enforcement may also be necessary, and candidates should be prepared for physical fitness tests and background checks.

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.

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

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Park Ranger Assistant jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Park Ranger Assistant jobs in Oregon are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Park Ranger Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - John Day Lock and Dam - Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Pl...

Northwest Youth Corps

Rufus, OR • On-site

$7.6K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Northwest Youth Corps

Individual Placement

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

John Day Lock & Dam - Rufus, OR

Position Title: Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Placement

Position Summary:

John Day Dam is recruiting one 480-hour individual placements for up to 12 weeks beginning August of 2026 and end October/November 2026. The individual placement will support Natural Resource Management on U.S. Army Corps lands at the John Day Lock & Dam. Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam. The Individual Placement will assist in the following:

  • Natural resource maintenance and conservation projects, including invasive species removal (40%)
  • Park and Recreation Site Management (40%)
  • Boat Operator Training (20%)

*Please note percentages describe the estimated time allocated to each task over the course of the term.

All work under this term shall be performed in accordance with EM 385-1-1, "U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual," and FED-OSHA regulations. EM 385-1-1 can be downloaded from: https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Safety-and-Occupational-Health/Safety-and-Health-Requirements-Manual/

Required Qualifications:

  • Current Driver's License
  • Ages 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans)
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful, permanent resident
  • Must pass a background/driver check
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Ability to drive government vehicle upwards of 200 miles roundtrip in one day to get to work sites
  • Good written and verbal communication skills and a positive attitude
  • Ability to work outdoors in remote settings, in inclement weather, and on uneven ground
  • Willingness to work independently in an outdoor setting at a campground gatehouse
  • Enjoys engaging in customer service
  • Able to walk campground and interact with campground visitors, campground hosts, and volunteers
  • Able to address campground visitor's needs, resolving their problems and complaints
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
  • Personal transportation

Desired Qualifications:

  • Strong collaborating and communication skills.
  • Interested in providing educational programs on water safety, environment, local wildlife, the historical and cultural relevance of landmarks
  • Willingness to learn about John Day Lock and Dam history and importance
  • Enthusiastic about work in conservation, recreation, and environmental and cultural stewardship
  • Compassion towards visitors and situations with adversity
  • Knowledge of Northwest natural resources, flora, and fauna
  • Must be comfortable riding in and working from a boat and kayak
  • Knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Word

Duty Location:

Individual placement will report daily to the USACE Ranger office at John Day Lock & Dam (Interstate 84 Exit 109, Rufus, Oregon 97050, in the Ranger Office). Incumbent must arrange their own transportation to and from the office. No public transportation opportunities.

Terms of Employment:

Individual placement will complete the 12-week program (480 Hours) starting August through October/November, 2026. Dates of service are flexible to accommodate applicant availability. Individual placement will average 40 hours of labor per week, minus holidays. Individual placements are responsible for providing their own personal transportation and food.

Program Benefits:

Individual placements will earn a total living allowance of $7,680 for the 12-week term. The living allowance will be divided into monthly payments over the course of the 12-week term. The living allowance is taxable income. Additionally, there is a reimbursement fund of $54.10 available for relevant training during the term.

Application Instructions

_____________________________________________________________________

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Interviews: Will occur as qualified applications are received.

Type of position: Individual Placement

Service Dates: August – October/November 2026 (start date is negotiable to accommodate applicant schedules)

Length of Term: 12 Weeks (minimum of 480 hours)

How to apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references and completely fill out the application form found at https://nwyouthcorps.workbrightats.com/jobsearch/?job_board_classification=Internships

Please select "John Day Lock and Dam – Natural Resource Steward Individual Placement" when applying.

Additional Information

If you have questions about the position, please reach out to Northwest Youth Corps Internship Department at interns@nwyouthcorps.org or 208-625-8402, or Supervisory Natural Resource Specialist Sylvia Gentilcore at Sylvia.T.Gentilcore@usace.army.mil or 541-739-1134.

All job offers are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check (criminal history and driving history).