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Park Ranger Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO

$20/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO

$20/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

$18/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are ...

Ranger

Larkspur, CO · On-site

$18/hr

As a Ranger, you will assist with all site set-ups for arriving and departing guests. They are ... Commuter benefits including transit & parking * Pet Insurance * PTO and Payroll Incentives for ...

Ranger

Larkspur, CO · On-site

$18/hr

Description As a Ranger, you will assist with all site set-ups for arriving and departing guests ... Commuter benefits including transit & parking * Pet Insurance * PTO and Payroll Incentives for ...

CO

$19/hr

This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations, assures quality customer service, facility maintenance, repair and cleanliness, assists with fee collection, accounting and ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations, assures quality customer service, facility maintenance, repair and cleanliness, assists with fee collection, accounting and ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations. Assures quality customer service, facility maintenance (including cleaning restrooms), repair and cleanliness, assists with fee ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

This position will also assist with all areas of daily park operations. Assures quality customer service, facility maintenance (including cleaning restrooms), repair and cleanliness, assists with fee ...

CO · On-site

$20.50/hr

Assists park visitors by providing information and directions and answering questions. Prepares and ... Each Ranger will be provided a laptop computer for communication, reports, etc. Applicant should ...

Showing results 21-40

Park Ranger information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Colorado is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a park ranger?

Park rangers are professionals responsible for protecting and managing national, state, or local parks and natural resources. Their duties include enforcing park rules, ensuring visitor safety, conducting educational programs, maintaining trails and facilities, and monitoring wildlife and ecosystems. Park rangers also play a vital role in conservation efforts and may assist in search and rescue operations. They work in a variety of environments, from forests to historical sites, to ensure that these areas are preserved for future generations.

What do park rangers do?

Park rangers often work for federal or state governments and are responsible for caring for and protecting woodlands, forests and conservatories. Most of their days are spent outdoors patrolling campgrounds, trails, and various park areas. Park rangers sometimes give tours and answer questions from guests and visitors in the park. They also play a key role in search and rescue missions when needed.

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

To thrive as a Park Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental science, resource management, and law enforcement procedures, usually supported by a degree in a related field or relevant certifications. Familiarity with GPS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and first aid certifications is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability, and a passion for conservation help you engage with visitors and handle emergencies effectively. These skills ensure the safety of park resources and visitors while fostering educational and enjoyable park experiences.

What are some common challenges park rangers face during peak visitor seasons, and how are they managed?

During peak visitor seasons, Park Rangers often experience increased workloads due to higher numbers of visitors, which can lead to challenges such as crowd management, ensuring visitor safety, and protecting natural resources from overuse. Effective communication, teamwork, and proactive planning are essential to manage these challenges. Rangers may coordinate with volunteers and other staff, implement visitor education programs, and enforce regulations more strictly to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are key to successfully navigating the busy season.

What is the difference between Park Ranger vs Forest Technician?

AspectPark RangerForest Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in first aid or law enforcementAssociate's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field
Work EnvironmentNational or state parks, recreation areas, visitor centersForests, conservation areas, fieldwork sites
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies managing parks and recreationForestry services, conservation agencies, government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Park Rangers and Forest Technicians both work in outdoor environments related to natural resource management. While Park Rangers focus on visitor safety, education, and park preservation, Forest Technicians assist with forest management, data collection, and conservation projects. Both roles often require knowledge of environmental policies and outdoor skills, but Park Rangers typically have more public interaction, whereas Forest Technicians are more involved in fieldwork and technical tasks.

Can I be a park ranger with no experience?

Park ranger positions typically require some level of experience or education related to natural resources, conservation, or law enforcement. Entry-level roles may be available to those with a high school diploma and relevant skills, but additional training or certifications such as CPR or first aid are often beneficial. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve chances of employment.

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, forestry, or a related field, along with experience in outdoor or conservation work. Candidates may also need to pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and obtain certifications like CPR or first aid. The hiring process can be lengthy and varies by agency or park system.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Park Ranger jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Park Ranger job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,191 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

INTERNSHIP-LIMITED COMMISSION RANGER- STATE FOREST STATE PARK

State of Colorado

CO • On-site

$20/hr

Temporary, Internship

Posted 7 days ago


State Of Colorado rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 50 rated states


Job description

Department Information THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) - PAYING $20.00 PER HOUR EMPLOYMENT STARTS 1/2027 THROUGH 10/2027. To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters). This announcement will remain open until FILLED

You are encouraged to apply early. The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources. Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks.

They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all seasons and weather conditions. Park Rangers work where everyone comes to play. They wear many hats because of the diversity of the State's geography, visitors, and recreational opportunities.

This is an unarmed law enforcement position (Title 33 Commission). Limited Commission Park Ranger positions involve extensive customer service and public contact while enforcing Colorado Parks and Wildlife laws and regulations. Specific duties may include but are not limited to: Issuing citations for violations Conduct patrols of park areas by vehicle, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV), boat, bicycle, or foot.

Responding to emergencies and resolving visitor complaints. Completing reports and may be required to appear in court. Assisting in all areas of daily park operations, which may include: Revenue/fee collection, verification, basic accounting, and deposits General park or facility maintenance, such as cleaning of public facilities (restrooms, vault toilets, campsites, picnic areas, trails, etc) as needed.

Visitor services operations which may involve education and interpretive programs. Lake, river, and backcountry recreation parks may have additional, separate duties. Other duties as assigned.

This position is up to 40 hours per week and up to nine months in duration. School schedules MAY be accommodated. WORK CONTEXT: In addition to work activities, below is a list of means and manner of conducting duties in this position: In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment - Travel via vehicle, etc is required for this position.

Job duties for this position may cover various areas of Colorado and require operation of 4 wheel drive vehicles, snowmobiles, ATV's, towing trailers, operating boats, etc. Freedom to Make Decisions - Decisions are made on a daily basis. Part of the decision-making responsibility is to determine what level is appropriate for each decision and to forward with background information and recommendations those decisions that need supervisory authority.

Telephone - The phone is also a primary means of communication for this position, and used daily. Outdoors, Exposed to Weather - Fieldwork for this position is necessary and the worker will be outdoors, exposed to weather at least weekly if not daily. Deal With External Customers - Dealing with external customers is critical to the position and extremely important Electronic Mail -This is one of the primary means of communication for this job.

Email is used at least weekly if not daily. Face-to-Face Discussions - Face to face discussions/meetings occur at least weekly if not daily. Structured versus Unstructured Work - This job is more unstructured than structured.

Work often exceeds time available and it is workers duty to prioritize tasks, and deal with prioritizing unscheduled work that arises. Duration of Typical Work Week - The number of hours worked is, on average, but not limited to, 40 hours per week. Shifts are generally 8 hours and days off are generally Monday - Friday.

Shifts will include weekends and holidays. Consequence of Error - Error in this position could result in minor to serious implications if the mistake was not readily correctable (depending on the situation). Letters and Memos -Letters and memos are written on a regular basis.

Most written communication is handled electronically via email. Contact With Others -Contact with others occurs daily and should be considered one of the critical contexts for the position. Work With Work Group or Team - As explained above, contact with others is critical to the position and is almost always working in a group or as part of a team.

Indoors, Environmentally Controlled - Fieldwork for this position is necessary; however, a large portion of training will occur in a classroom or other controlled indoor environment. Uniforms - The park may provide some uniform items (shirts, hats, gloves and outerwear). Employee will be required to purchase limited uniform items at their own expense (navy colored pants, hiking or work boots, black socks and black belt).

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights REQUIREMENTS: Must be 21 years of age or older. Must have a current and valid driver's license required for operating a state vehicle and an acceptable driving record (which will be verified as part of the comprehensive background check process). IMPORTANT - Federal law maintains the prohibition of illegal drugs.

If you have used marijuana within the past 12 months and/or used any illegal drugs within the past 36 months, you will be disqualified from the process and will not advance further. If you have been convicted of a felony or any domestic violence charge and/or been convicted of any misdemeanors that prohibit POST certification for Colorado Peace Officer standards (see link: Decertifying Misdemeanors Colorado POST), you will be disqualified from the process. Successful completion of a comprehensive background check is required.

Must be available to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and may involve working during inclement weather. This position requires outdoor physical work that may require climbing in and out of vessels/vehicles and/or under trailers to perform job functions. The work site will provide some uniform items; however, employees may be required to purchase limited uniform items at their own expense.

Must attend and successfully complete required Colorado State Park training (may include full exposure to OC spray). Must have or be able to attain valid current First Aid and CPR certifications. Must be able to work with limited supervision and work well within a team.

Must possess strong interpersonal communication skills to deliver excellent customer service. Basic computer skills required (MS Office Suite, Google App Suite) Preference may be given to applicants with or working towards a Natural Resources degree or similar education. Previous experience handling money and working with the public is preferred.

Background check required. Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly during the course of a workday. Pursuant to the DNR-120 Fleet and Driving Standards Administrative Directive, any worker who will be expected to drive a State-owned vehicle is responsible for maintaining a safe driving record and a valid driver license prior to driving any State-owned vehicle.

To be compliant with the new fleet vehicle policy, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) will be pulled for review for workers who: Have an assigned State fleet vehicle Are required to operate a vehicle as part of the position Utilize a State fleet vehicle as a pool vehicle PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This position will perform physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Ability to perceive color differences and to hear verbal and radio communications. Supplemental Information We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services.

Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them.

Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship.

If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator, at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us E-Verify employer: The Department of Natural Resources participates in E-Verify in accordance with the program's Right to Work for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S

Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities. Toll-Free Applicant Support - Technical Help If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time)

Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it. The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues.


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