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Park Ranger Protection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Golf Marshal

Lincoln, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

... Park and Attractions & so much more) Our Commitment to you: "People never forget how you made them ... Maintains communications from the first tee with golf shop, cart staff and ranger * Monitors first ...

Marshal

Buena Park, CA ยท On-site

$17/hr

Los Coyotes Country Club Address : 8888 Los Coyotes Drive, Buena Park, CA 90621 ABOUT AMERICAN GOLF ... protected class under federal, state, and/or local law. Pay Range: $17 per hour

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Park Ranger Protection information

See California salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do park ranger protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger protection 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 are some common challenges Park Ranger Protection officers face when balancing public safety and natural resource preservation?

Park Ranger Protection officers often encounter the challenge of simultaneously safeguarding visitors and preserving natural resources. This may involve enforcing regulations, responding to emergencies, and educating the public about responsible park usage. Balancing these tasks requires strong communication skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions, especially during peak visitation periods or in remote areas. Additionally, rangers must regularly collaborate with law enforcement, firefighters, and environmental specialists to effectively manage risks and ensure both people and the environment remain safe.

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

AspectPark Ranger ProtectionPark Ranger Law Enforcement
CredentialsBasic park ranger certifications, CPR, first aidAdditional law enforcement certifications, police training
Work EnvironmentPublic parks, nature reserves, visitor centersWildlife areas, enforcing laws, patrolling
Employer & IndustryNational parks, state parks, conservation agenciesLaw enforcement agencies within parks, federal agencies

Park Ranger Protection focuses on visitor assistance, conservation, and education, while Park Ranger Law Enforcement involves enforcing laws, issuing citations, and ensuring safety. Both roles require park-related certifications, but law enforcement rangers have additional police training. The main difference lies in law enforcement authority and responsibilities within the park environment.

What are Park Ranger Protection officers?

Park Ranger Protection officers are specialized park rangers responsible for protecting natural resources, visitors, and property within parks and other public lands. Their duties include law enforcement, emergency response, patrolling park areas, and ensuring the safety and security of both visitors and wildlife. They may also investigate crimes, enforce park regulations, and provide educational information to the public. This role requires a strong knowledge of conservation, law enforcement procedures, and effective communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Park Ranger Protection, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Park Ranger Protection, you need a strong knowledge of law enforcement, environmental science, and park regulations, typically supported by a degree in natural resources or criminal justice and relevant certifications. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and first aid/CPR certifications is often required. Excellent observation skills, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies help ensure the safety of park visitors, effective protection of natural resources, and proper enforcement of park laws.
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger Protection jobs in California? For Park Ranger Protection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Ranger Protection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger Protection jobs in California are:

SENIOR PARK AIDE (SEASONAL)

Department of Parks & Recreation

San Clemente, CA โ€ข On-site

$20.90 - $25.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

SENIOR PARK AIDE (SEASONAL) - ORANGE COAST DISTRICT / SOUTH SECTOR / DOHENY STATE BEACH
"Priority consideration will be given to any person receiving State public assistance under the CalWORKs program. Applicants who receive State public assistance need to identify their status as a CalWORKs recipient in the comments area on the application. Applicants must submit a verification of their CalWORKs eligibility status, which may include the most recent Notice of Action showing TANF eligibility or a copy of your last aid check stub. If verification is not submitted with the application, the application will not be processed. (Applicants may obtain verification from the CalWORKs program)."
The reporting location for this position is Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, CA. This position will work under the supervision of the State Park Peace Officer (Ranger).
The job duties include but are not limited to, the following: maintains the daily operation of the visitor center / kiosk, opens and closes visitor center/kiosk. Keeps the area and surrounding area clean and clear of debris and litter. Collects fees, makes correct change, completes end of day cash register accounting, prepares bank drops, deposit bags and raise and lowers flag daily. Register campers, keeps track of reservations daily, maintains accurate and up to date records of campground occupancy, sell DPR passes, firewood and park maps. Operate a vehicle to perform daily camp checks. Answers questions on rules, regulations and facilities for the public, gives directions to the public, dispense band aides. Promotes a positive relationship with park volunteers and the public. Reports all problems to appropriate staff. Performs litter pickup, light maintenance, resource protection and housekeeping duties.
The position may work up to 1500 hours within a consecutive 12 months. This position is designated as not telework eligible.
The selected candidate is required to submit to a background investigation process utilizing Live Scan fingerprinting prior to appointment.
Possession of a valid driver's license of the appropriate class and a safe driving record as documented by the Department of Motor Vehicles within 60 days prior to appointment. (A safe driving record is one free from convictions in the past two years for repeated moving violations or a single serious violation, such as drunk driving or reckless driving.
State housing is not available. For further information regarding this position, please contact Martin Flores at (949) 426-0456 or at Martin.Flores@parks.ca.gov .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Occasional computer use in an office setting interspersed with long periods of walking and standing. May work in an indoor or outdoor setting and encounter various types of temperature and weather situations including rain, wind, heat and cold.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • SENIOR PARK AIDE (SEASONAL)
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-518866
Position #(s):
549-927-1035-901
Working Title:
SENIOR PARK AIDE (SEASONAL)
Classification:
SENIOR PARK AIDE (SEASONAL) $20.90 - $25.15
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Orange County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Non-Tenured, Intermittent
Facility:
Orange Coast District
Department Information
The mission of California State Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.
All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.

DO NOT include any confidential information to your application or supporting documents (i.e., Social Security Number, birthdate, marital status, medical information, examination results, method of eligibility, etc.)
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/17/2026
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the applicable Laws and Rules. Please note on your application your current participation in these programs.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Parks & Recreation
Orange Coast District
Attn: Martin Flores
3030 Avenida Del Presidente
San Clemente , CA 92672
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Parks & Recreation
Orange Coast District
Martin Flores
3030 Avenida Del Presidente
San Clemente , CA 92672
Monday-Friday, excluding weekends and state holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Martin Flores
(562) 686-4923
martin.flores@parks.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Sharon Comas - EEO Office
(916) 653-9990
sharon.comas@parks.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Instructions
If submitting your completed Application Package by mail or hand delivery, you must include the Position # 549-927-1035-901 and the Job Control # JC-518866 in the "Examination or Job Title for which you are applying" section on the STD. 678.
Note: If you are applying for multiple positions, you must complete a STD. 678 for each position separately. Incomplete applications or applications received with multiple positions listed on one application will not be considered.
Employment History on the STD 678 must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors. Failure to submit a completed STD 678 may result in you being screened out. Only the most qualified candidates will be invited to an interview.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.