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Park Ranger Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Valley County

Campground Host

Cascade, ID

$50/day

Additionally, this role supports administrative compliance by checking for valid parking or camping permits and monitoring "Iron Ranger" self-pay stations. The Host maintains a professional line of ...

Valley County, ID

Campground Host

Cascade, ID · On-site

$50/day

Additionally, this role supports administrative compliance by checking for valid parking or camping permits and monitoring "Iron Ranger" self-pay stations. The Host maintains a professional line of ...

Viceroy Hotels and Resorts

Public Area Attendant

Ketchum, ID · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Viceroy Hotels & Resorts offers a fresh take on hospitality, centered on the richness of experiences and cultural connection. A leader in modern luxury, Viceroy is committed to creating unique ...

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Park Ranger information

See Idaho salary details

$11

$19

$37

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Idaho is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 park rangers?

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.

How to become a California park ranger?

To become a California park ranger, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in law enforcement, natural resource management, or customer service, and must pass a background check and physical fitness test. Some positions require completion of a law enforcement academy or certification, and candidates should have good communication skills and knowledge of environmental conservation. Applying through the California State Parks employment portal and meeting specific job requirements are essential steps in the process.

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.

How to be a park ranger?

To become a park ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a college degree in fields like environmental science or natural resource management. Relevant skills include outdoor survival, communication, and law enforcement abilities, and certification in first aid or CPR is often preferred. Applying through state or federal park agencies and gaining experience through internships or seasonal work can improve chances of employment.

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.

How to become NYS park ranger?

To become a park ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in parks or law enforcement, and often must pass a background check and physical fitness test. Some positions require specialized training or certifications, such as CPR or first aid, and applicants should review specific state requirements for park ranger roles.

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.

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. Certification in first aid, CPR, or law enforcement may also be beneficial, and candidates should be prepared for physical fitness tests and background checks.
More about Park Ranger jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Idaho? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Idaho are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in Idaho? For Park Ranger jobs in Idaho, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Idaho look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Idaho are:
What cities in Idaho are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Idaho with the most Park Ranger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in ID? For Park Ranger jobs in ID, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Idaho as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,437 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Nez Perce National Historical Park - Interpretation and Education Individual Placement

Nez Perce National Historical Park - Interpretation and Education Individual Placement

Northwest Youth Corps

Lapwai, ID • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Northwest Youth Corps

Nez Perce National Historical Park

National Park Service

Interpretation and Education Individual Placements

Lapwai, ID

Position Title: Interpretation and Education Individual Placement

Position Summary:

Nez Perce National Historical Park is recruiting two 16- week (640 HR) Interpretation and Education Individual Placements beginning July through October 2026. Start and end dates are negotiable depending on candidate availability. Park operations are seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Weekly schedules will be discussed with selected candidates and may vary depending on park needs and Individual Placements availability.

Individual Placements will work alongside National Park Service interpreters to share the history, culture, and ongoing significance of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) and other stories connected to the park's many sites. Through this experience, Individual Placements will help visitors explore the people, places, and events that shape the park's stories.

Individual Placements will engage visitors of all ages through a variety of interpretive approaches including visitor center interactions, informal roving interpretation, short talks, and occasional scheduled programs. Individual Placements may also assist with educational outreach, special events, and other visitor engagement opportunities.

As part of the Individual Placement, participants will research, develop, and present interpretive programs such as short site talks, orientation programs, and children's activities including Junior Ranger programs. Individual Placements will learn how to connect park resources to larger ideas and themes that help visitors find personal meaning in park stories.

Individual Placements will receive mentorship from park interpreters and gain hands-on experience in interpretive planning, audience engagement, and communicating complex stories in meaningful and accessible ways. This Individual Placement provides an opportunity to develop skills commonly used in National Park Service interpretation and education careers.

Individual Placements will also complete a relevant project related to interpretation, education, or visitor engagement. Projects may include developing educational materials, updating Junior Ranger activities, researching park stories, assisting with outreach efforts, or supporting digital interpretation.

About Northwest Youth Corps (NYC):

Northwest Youth Corps was created in 1984 to offer teenagers and young adults an education-based work experience modeled after the historic Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930's. Today, we serve over 1,000 youth and young adults each year across a four-state region who restore critical habitat, build trails, lead volunteers, educate youth, and respond to local and national disasters.

Nez Perce National Historical Park, Spalding, Idaho

Nez Perce National Historical Park preserves and interprets places significant to the history, culture, and continuing traditions of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people. Often described as "a park about a people, for all people," the park protects sites connected to Nimiipuu history, culture, leadership, and resilience across a broad landscape.

Rather than a single location, the park includes 38 sites across Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Montana, each connected to the homeland and stories of the Nimiipuu. Approximately 300,000 visitors annually explore Nez Perce National Historical Park to learn about the cultural heritage and history of the Nez Perce people and to experience the landscapes tied to these stories.

Visitors also encounter park sites while traveling along two national historic trails: the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, administered by the National Park Service, and the Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail, managed by the U.S. Forest Service in close partnership with Nez Perce National Historical Park. Many travelers discover park sites while passing through the region and are introduced to the many stories and connections tied to this landscape.

The park headquarters and visitor center are located in Spalding, Idaho, along U.S. Highway 95 near the Idaho–Washington border and approximately 10 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho.

The area is defined by the Clearwater and Snake Rivers as they flow through canyons and rolling hills before joining near Lewiston. Vegetation in the area includes grasslands and sagebrush, and much of the surrounding countryside is agricultural and planted in wheat.

The nearby communities of Lewiston, Idaho (population approximately 36,000) and Clarkston, Washington (population approximately 8,000) provide major services including rental housing, an airport, schools, and hospitals. There is no public transportation to the park from surrounding communities.

Daytime temperatures from May through September frequently reach the high 80s, with numerous days in July and August exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter daytime temperatures generally range from the low 30s to the mid-50s. The climate in this portion of the Clearwater River valley is relatively arid, with limited rain or snow compared to nearby higher elevations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • 30% - Visitor Center Operations and Customer Service- Individual Placement will assist with the visitor center operations which includes staffing visitor center desk, operating a cash register, providing customer service, opening, and closing building, and basic cleaning. Answering questions and implementing projects related to Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) history and culture, environmental education, interpretation, and wildlife management.
  • 20% - Public Outreach and Interpretation – Individual Placement will develop and present educational programs and maintain program supplies and equipment. Individual Placement will assist in developing and presenting interpretive programs (e.g., nature-based programs and walks, history programs) for park visitors of a variety of ages and backgrounds. Individual Placements activities will include roving interpretation at various park sites.
  • 20% - Media and Communication – Individual Placement will help with positively promoting the park using social media, flyers, and the park website. Individual Placement will assist with drafting and preparing a variety of written materials and responses including news releases, articles, correspondence, and event flyers to increase understanding of the park mission, a special event, or related issues.
  • 20% - Resource Management-Individual Placement will assist with monitoring endangered plants, creating botanical species lists, and surveying for aquatic and sensitive plants. Additional duties will include removing invasive plants (including hand-pulling), assisting with nursery and greenhouse operations, collecting, and processing seed, assisting with wildlife surveys, entering data, processing plant collections, and other duties as assigned.
  • 10% - Special Events – Individual Placements will assist park staff in coordinating and managing special events at the park.

Required Qualifications:

  • Ages 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans)
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful, permanent resident
  • Must be able to pass a background check.
  • Current driver's license and clean driving record
  • Personal Vehicle to get to and from work.
  • Strong communication skills. The Individual Placements will need to work both independently and with a small number of staff or volunteers.
  • Ability to lift carry 30lbs.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Academic discipline or area of interest related to this position: education, environmental science, biology, communication, graphic design, writing, photography, or history.
  • Willingness to learn and participate in a team environment.

Duty Location:

Duties are performed within the greater Lewiston, Idaho area. Individual Placements will be required to make their own housing arrangements in the local Lewiston, Idaho area.

Terms of Employment:

Individual Placements will complete the 16-week program (640 HR) starting July through October 2026. The Individual Placements will average 40 hours of labor per week, minus holidays. Sick days and off days are allowed per request via the Nez Perce National Historic Park staff.

Program Benefits:

Individual Placements will earn $10,240 living allowance dispersed on a monthly basis throughout the 16-weeks. The living allowance is taxable.

Application Instructions:

Application Deadline: Until Filled

Interviews: Will occur as qualified applications are received.

Type of position: Individual Placement

Service Dates: July 2026 – October 2026

Length of Term: 16 weeks (640 HR)

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 "Nez Perce National Historical Park – Interpretation and Education Individual Placement" when applying.

Additional Information:

If you have questions about the position, please contact Idaho Conservation Corps/Northwest Youth Corps Internship Program Department at interns@nwyouthcorps.org or Nez Perce National Historic Park Ranger, Mandi Wick at mandi_wick@nps.gov

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

Apply