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Park Ranger Law Enforcement Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Diffusing potentially difficult situations and providing support to law enforcement and fire ... Park Ranger I - $22.2839 - $30.3233 Park Ranger II - $24.0840 - $32.8045 Meet the Team. The ...

Part Time Senior Park Ranger

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$28.68 - $34.86/hr

Regularly communicate with law enforcement, fire officials, and Code Enforcement; use radio for ... Act as Park Ranger dispatch operator as assigned. Follow safe working practices and make ...

Park Ranger I/II

Riverside, CA · On-site

$46K - $68K/yr

Report writing, previous law enforcement or military experience Enforcing park rules, municipal ... Park Ranger I - $22.2839 - $30.3233 Park Ranger II - $24.0840 - $32.8045 Meet the Team The ...

Park Ranger is the first-level classification in the Park Ranger/Senior Park Ranger series ... Communicate with law enforcement, fire officials, and Code Enforcement staff on a regular basis ...

Park Ranger

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$88K - $107K/yr

The Park Ranger plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing Fairfield's parks, open space, and ... Experience or training in wildland fire fighting and law enforcement resource management or related ...

Park Ranger

Claremont, CA · On-site

$23.03 - $27.82/hr

The Park Ranger will assist local law enforcement agencies with the enforcement of City policies and codes at various parks through education and the issuance of citations. The Park Ranger is ...

Part-Time Park Ranger

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$24.09 - $27.89/hr

Park Ranger is the first-level classification in the Park Ranger/Senior Park Ranger series ... Communicate with law enforcement, fire officials, and Code Enforcement staff on a regular basis ...

The following experience may be substituted for the education lacking on a year-for-year basis: Full-time experience, as a Park Ranger or other law enforcement officer with a recognized peace officer ...

PARK RANGER 1966

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$78K - $96K/yr

The following experience may be substituted for the education lacking on a year-for-year basis: * Full-time experience, as a Park Ranger or other law enforcement officer with a recognized peace ...

COUNTY PARK RANGER II

Bradley, CA

$19 - $23.50/hr

Examples of Duties Performs law enforcement functions by patrolling park areas to protect property ... County Park Ranger II THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE Will have a proven track record demonstrating the ...

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Park Ranger Law Enforcement information

See California salary details

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How much do park ranger law enforcement jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger law enforcement 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.

What is a park ranger law enforcement?

Park Ranger Law Enforcement officers are specialized park rangers who are commissioned to enforce laws and regulations within national, state, or local parks. Their duties include protecting park resources, ensuring visitor safety, investigating crimes, conducting patrols, and providing emergency response. They also educate the public about park rules and conservation efforts. These officers often carry firearms and have arrest authority, making their role crucial for maintaining order and preserving the integrity of natural and cultural resources.

What are some common challenges faced by park ranger law enforcement officers in balancing conservation duties with public safety responsibilities?

Park Ranger Law Enforcement officers often face the unique challenge of balancing the protection of natural resources with ensuring visitor safety and compliance with park regulations. This can involve making difficult decisions, such as enforcing rules that may not be popular with the public or intervening in potentially dangerous situations like wildlife encounters or illegal activities. Rangers must remain vigilant and adaptable, often working in remote areas with limited backup, which requires strong problem-solving skills and independence. Collaboration with other agencies and park staff is essential to effectively manage incidents, provide educational outreach, and maintain a safe, welcoming environment for all visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a park ranger law enforcement officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Park Ranger Law Enforcement Officer, you need a solid understanding of natural resource management, law enforcement procedures, and public safety protocols, typically supported by a relevant degree and completion of law enforcement training such as the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). Proficiency with GIS mapping tools, incident reporting systems, and two-way radio communication is commonly required. Excellent interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and sound judgment help you effectively engage with the public and handle challenging situations. These competencies are crucial for protecting natural resources, enforcing laws, and ensuring the safety of park visitors and staff.

What is the difference between Park Ranger Law Enforcement vs Park Ranger Naturalist?

AspectPark Ranger Law EnforcementPark Ranger Naturalist
Required CredentialsCPR, First Aid, Law Enforcement Certifications, sometimes police academy trainingInterpretive certifications, environmental education credentials
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement settings, patrols, enforcing lawsEducational programs, visitor centers, nature tours
Employer & IndustryFederal, state parks with law enforcement dutiesNational, state parks focusing on education and conservation
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Park Ranger Law Enforcement roles focus on law enforcement, safety, and enforcement of regulations, requiring law enforcement certifications. In contrast, Park Ranger Naturalists emphasize education, interpretation, and conservation efforts. Both roles work in parks but serve different functions based on their training and responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a job as a park ranger law enforcement?

Becoming a park ranger law enforcement officer can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education, law enforcement experience, and passing physical and background checks. Candidates typically need certifications such as CPR and first aid, and the hiring process may involve multiple steps including interviews and training. Strong communication skills and knowledge of laws and regulations are also important.

What disqualifies you from being a park ranger law enforcement?

Disqualifications for a park ranger law enforcement position typically include a felony conviction, certain misdemeanor offenses, or a history of illegal drug use. Candidates must also meet physical fitness standards, possess a valid driver's license, and pass background checks and drug tests. Additionally, a lack of relevant certifications or training can be a disqualifier.

What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger Law Enforcement jobs in California?

For Park Ranger Law Enforcement jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Park Ranger Law Enforcement jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Park Ranger Law Enforcement jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Park Ranger Law Enforcement jobs?

Cities in California with the most Park Ranger Law Enforcement job openings:

Infographic showing various Park Ranger Law Enforcement job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Park Ranger I/II

Riverside, CA

$46K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section. ABOUT THE POSITION The County of Riverside seeks candidates to fill positions throughout Riverside County. A list of eligible candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies.

The County of Riverside's Regional Park and Open-Space District has an opportunity for a Park Ranger I/II position based in the Santa Ana River Bottom (SARB) located in Jurupa Valley. The Park Ranger I/II will patrol the Santa Ana River Bottom on foot or in a truck while enforcing policies, state and county laws, and ordinances. The role encompasses off-highway vehicle patrolling, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, fence repairs, and clearing encampment debris, with a dedicated emphasis on community engagement, particularly with the unhoused.

Additionally, the Park Ranger I/II will work to identify the needs of unsheltered individuals and connect them with appropriate resources, fostering a supportive environment that encourages positive outcomes. Additional duties may be assigned as needed. The department seeks candidates who possess: Background in open-space reserves, forestry, or parks.

Park operations experience in a Park Ranger, Park Attendant or Park Maintenance or similar position. Ability to evaluate environments for potential hazards, including contraband presence. Diffusing potentially difficult situations and providing support to law enforcement and fire officials where necessary.

Experience interacting with a wide range of individuals, including the unsheltered and unhoused, in potentially difficult situations. Bridging and facilitating connections to resources and services for unhoused individuals. Interacting with OHV "off-highway vehicle patrols" users and the public to provide information and gather feedback about the area.

Familiarity with Microsoft Office and GIS applications. Work Schedule: 5/40 Monday through Friday from 7:00 am- 3:30 pm with weekends off. (Shifts may rotate based on departmental needs, and employees will also be required to work evenings and holidays).

Incumbents are expected to progress to the Park Ranger II level upon meeting the minimum qualifications for the higher level and satisfactory job performance. The level at which the position will be filled is at the Department's discretion and contingent on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Incumbents are expected to progress to the Park Ranger II level upon meeting the minimum qualifications for the higher level and satisfactory job performance.

Salary Range: Park Ranger I - $22.2839 - $30.3233 Park Ranger II - $24.0840 - $32.8045 Meet the Team. The Riverside County Regional Park Habitat and Open-Space District is a nationally accredited agency who strives to be the regional leader in improving lives through people, parks, places, and programs. Their mission is to acquire, protect, develop, manage, and interpret for the inspiration, use, and enjoyment of all people, a well-balanced system of areas of outstanding scenic, recreational, and historic importance

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Both Levels Explain and enforce park policies, rules, regulations, and County ordinances; oversee the registration of park visitors, the collection of fees. Participate in custodial duties and the maintenance and cleanup of park structures and grounds; work with park maintenance personnel on minor construction, maintenance, repair, and improvement of park structures, facilities, and grounds. Answer public inquiries and complaints concerning park operations and maintenance.

Provide assistance in emergency situations; maintain fire prevention standards and practices as established by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention and the United States Forest Service. Patrol open-space, wildlife habitat reserves, and conservation land to communicate and ensure compliance with park regulations, laws, and ordinances; work with maintenance personnel to maintain signs and access controls. Plan and participate in habitat creation and restoration; assist in the planning of prescribed burns with County, state, and federal fire agencies.

Monitor and participate in court referral/ work release programs. Maintain records and prepare reports. Park Ranger II - Parks (in addition to the duties above) Train assigned staff in the safe and effective promotion, protection, and utilization of park resources at assigned parks and open-space and wildlife preserves.

Interpret, explain and enforce park policies, rules, regulations, and County ordinances. Assist in reviewing plans and specifications for park site projects and recommend modifications. Requisition equipment and supplies; inform supervisor on progress of work and on observed performance and attendance of subordinates.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Park Ranger I ($44,567.72 - $60,646.52 Annually) Experience: Two years of interacting with the public that included conflict resolution and customer service or customer support. (College coursework from an accredited college or university in public administration, park or recreation management, forestry, botany, environmental science, or a closely related field to the assignment may substitute for the required experience on the basis of 30 semester or 45 quarter units equaling one year of full-time experience.) Other Requirements: Within 12 months of employment, incumbents must possess valid certificates in First Aid, CPR/AED, Basic Water Rescue issued by the American Red Cross or YMCA, and have successfully completed PC 832. Park Ranger II ($48,168.05 - $65,608.96 Annually) OPTION I Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in public administration, park or recreation management, forestry, botany, environmental science, or a closely related field to the assignment

OPTION II Experience: Three years of working in the operations, maintenance, development, or protection of a park, forest, or public recreational or historical area. (College coursework from an accredited college or university in public administration, park or recreation management, forestry, botany, environmental science, or a closely related field may substitute for up to three years of the required experience on the basis of 30 semester or 45 quarter units equaling one year of full-time experience.) OPTION III Experience: One year as a Park Ranger I with the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District. Other Requirements: Incumbents must possess valid certificates in First Aid and CPR/AED

Within the first six months of employment, incumbents must successfully complete P.C. 832. Within one year of employment, incumbents must possess a valid certificate in Basic Water Rescue issued by the American Red Cross or YMCA

If you are applying for the Level II, you must upload your valid certificates in First Aid and CPR/AED with your application. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL LEVELS: License: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is required at the time of application, as the incumbent will be responsible for patrolling multiple locations throughout the Santa Ana River Bottom. Assessment: Candidates will be required to take a general abilities assessment prior to being considered for any Park Ranger position.

Physical Requirements: The Park Ranger I/II position requires extended periods of sitting and/or standing, with frequent walking and hiking on uneven terrain. Duties include prolonged kneeling and bending, as well as lifting and carrying heavy concrete bags, fencing materials such as wire, and various tools, and the regular use of equipment. Environmental Requirements: The Park Ranger I/II will be exposed to inclement weather, including extreme heat, cold, and wet conditions.

The position also involves exposure to live and dead wild and domestic animals, as well as noxious plants, including rattlesnakes, bees/wasps, mountain lions, dogs, poison oak, and stinging nettle. The role requires to patrol parks and perform maintenance under these conditions. ** Uniforms are provided.

** Knowledge of: Principles and practices of natural resources conservation, park management, and general law enforcement; principles and practices of first aid and safety. Ability to: Read, interpret, and enforce appropriate laws and regulations in accordance with County policy; train subordinates in park and open-space procedures; maintain records and prepare clear, complete, and concise reports; speak and write effectively; establish and maintain cooperative relationships with the public and other employees. Some Regional Park and Open-Space District Park Ranger - Parks positions are designated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) as safety-sensitive.

For those positions designated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) as safety-sensitive, applicants are required to complete a DOT mandated alcohol and drug-screening. (A positive test or refusal to test during the past two years will disqualify an applicant from consideration for County employment). Reference checks from former DOT regulated employers are also required.

Applicants must submit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record prior to hire. Employees in safety-sensitive positions are subject to DOT alcohol/drug testing in the following situations: random, reasonable suspicion/cause, return-to-duty, and post-accident. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Who May Apply: This recruitment is open to all applicants.

Application Status: How to confirm your application was received or check on the status of your application, log-in to www.GovernmentJobs.com, click on your name in the upper right corner, and click on "Applications & Status." Sign Up for Job Alerts: Go to www.RC-HR.com, click on "Careers," click on "County Job Openings," and click on "Subscribe to Job Alerts" icon. For questions regarding this recruitment: Please contact Valeria Ramirez at 951-955-1943 or varamirez@rivco.org. Please allow 1-2 business days for a response to general inquiries

If you are experiencing technical problems, you may contact the governmentjobs.com applicant support desk Monday through Friday, 6 am to 5 pm Pacific Time at support@governmentjobs.com or toll-free 1-855-524-5627. ________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICATION INFORMATION Veteran's Preference The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires. To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application

Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service. For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S. Veteran's Administration

For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s). A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference. For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here: https://rivcocob.org/board-policies Reasonable Accommodations The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)

Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above. For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at: https://rc-hr.com/disability Proof of Education If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date. Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted

If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE). Work Authorization Requirement Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application.

The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas. Equal Opportunity Employer The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons.

All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors. Pre-Employment All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting. (A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment).

A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required. Probationary Period As an Approved Local Merit System, all County of Riverside employees, except those serving "At Will," are subject to the probationary period provisions as specified in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding, County Resolution, or Salary Ordinance. Temporary and Per Diem employees serve at the pleasure of the agency/department head.

General Information Current County of Riverside and/or current employees of the hiring department may receive priority consideration. Qualified candidates may be considered for future County vacancies. Job postings may close without notice based on application volume.

Submit your complete application by the recruitment close date; no late applications are accepted. Ensure all relevant experience/education is reflected on your application/resume, as a failure to demonstrate position requirements may disqualify applicants. A description of job duties directly copied from the job classification or job posting will not be considered.

Please read and follow any special application instru...