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Park Ranger Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Ogden, IA · On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

PARK RANGER Position Description Position Detail: Park Ranger, full-time, Boone County Employee Benefits, this position has been classified as FLSA Non-Exempt Accountable To: Boone County ...

5116 N Dysart Rd Litchfield Park Arizona, 85340, +1 (602) 2163935 Starting Pay :$15.15 Hourly Position Description : Works as a member of the store team to lead an excellent customer and brand ...

5116 N Dysart Rd Litchfield Park Arizona, 85340, +1 (602) 2163935 Starting Pay :$15.15 Hourly Position Description : Works as a member of the store team to lead an excellent customer and brand ...

Public Area Attendant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Job Summary: To provide and maintain clean and comfortable public areas to ensure high levels of guest satisfaction. Also provide friendly and courteous service to each and every guest you come in ...

Public Area Attendant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Job Summary: To provide and maintain clean and comfortable public areas to ensure high levels of guest satisfaction. Also provide friendly and courteous service to each and every guest you come in ...

Public Area Attendant

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Job Summary: To provide and maintain clean and comfortable public areas to ensure high levels of guest satisfaction. Also provide friendly and courteous service to each and every guest you come in ...

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Park Ranger information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$19

$37

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Iowa is $19.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming a park ranger worth it?

A park ranger is a government employee responsible for protecting natural resources, enforcing regulations, and assisting visitors. The job often requires physical activity, knowledge of environmental science, and certifications such as CPR or first aid. While it offers opportunities to work outdoors and promote conservation, it may involve irregular hours and moderate pay depending on the location and agency.

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.

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.

What do you need to be a park ranger?

To become a park ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in conservation or law enforcement, and often a valid driver's license. Some positions require specialized training or certifications, such as first aid or law enforcement credentials, and strong communication skills are important for public interaction.

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?

Becoming a park ranger can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education, such as a degree in environmental science or natural resource management, and experience in outdoor or conservation work. Candidates typically need to pass background checks and may need certifications like CPR or first aid, with some positions requiring seasonal or volunteer experience before full employment.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay around $2,000 a day are highly specialized or senior-level roles such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate lawyers, or certain executive positions. These roles typically require advanced education, extensive experience, and professional certifications. High-paying freelance consulting or investment roles can also reach this level, but they are less common and often depend on individual performance and market demand.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in Iowa? For Park Ranger jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Park Ranger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in IA? For Park Ranger jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,367 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Park Ranger

Boone County Iowa

Ogden, IA • On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Description: PARK RANGERPosition Description

Position Detail: Park Ranger, full-time, Boone County Employee Benefits, this position has been classified as FLSA Non-Exempt

Accountable To: Boone County Conservation Board Executive Director, Governed by the Boone County Employee Handbook

Payment: Pay range between $48,000-$55,000 depending on experience.


Position:

Under general supervision of the Director, serves as a peace officer under the provisions of Chapter 350 of the Code of Iowa. Responsible for enforcing Conservation Board rules and natural resource laws, maintaining a safe environment for the public, and protecting public lands. Oversees the daily maintenance and operation of Swede Point Park, Grant’s Woods, and the High Trestle Trail. Recommends and implements improvements, enhancement in natural resource and recreational management, including timber stand improvement, prairie and tree planting, invasive species control, and prairie burns. Perform routine and special patrol duties, including the enforcement of laws, rules and regulations, maintain good public relations, and maintain park facilities and equipment.


Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required, with major course work in natural resources, outdoor recreation, or a related natural science field; experience in natural resource or law enforcement work may be substituted for the course work requirement.


Essential Job Functions: These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other skills and duties may be required and assigned.

? Enforce the laws and regulations pertaining to the operation of the areas and issue citations and warnings to violators. Perform scheduled and non-scheduled patrol days in uniform

? Enforcement of Boone County Conservation Board (BCCB) rules and regulations, state park laws, Iowa traffic laws, Iowa fish and game laws that may apply to public lands

? Knowledge of native trees, shrubs, flowers, birds and other wildlife common to Boone County

? Knowledge of principles and practices of park and natural resource management

? Ensures the cleanliness of properties, parking lots, shelters, and bathrooms.

? Oversees the care and maintenance of ornamental plants, shrubs, trees and wetlands on the facility grounds.

? Manages the High Trestle Trail System in Boone County, including mowing, weed control, tree trimming, sign maintenance, plowing, etc.

? Collect user fees, meet, understand, and assist the general public

? Maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, other departments and agencies, and volunteers

? Interact effectively with persons representing widely divergent backgrounds, interests, and ages

? Work effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision

? Operate automotive and law enforcement equipment including pickup patrol unit, police radios, in-car computer, and emergency equipment

? Repair and maintain park structures and grounds

? Plant and maintain trees, shrubs, and native grasses through drilling, planting, broadcasting, mowing, burning, and spraying herbicide

? Operate, repair, inspect, and service vehicles, tractors, mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, skid loaders, dump truck, and other tools

? Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays


Essential Administration Responsibilities

? Operate common office equipment such calculators, photocopiers, and multi-line telephones

? Use a computer for the purposes of data entry, word processing, email, and web browsing

? Apply for local, state or federal grants

? Plan, assign, and assist in the supervision of seasonal employees, volunteers and contractors

? Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to individuals and groups both in formal and informal situations

? Operate the administrative side of the MyCountyParks reservation system to change, make, and check campground, shelter, and cabin reservations.


Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation, Natural Resources, or related sciences preferred, High School Diploma/GED, Pre-Employment Physical, Pre-Employment Drug test, Clear Motor Vehicle Record, must be insurable under Boone County liability coverage, Pre Employment Background Check


Required Essential Licenses and Certifications

Certified peace officer in the State of Iowa (or be able to obtain certification), CPR and First Aid Certification (within one year of employment), Pesticide Applicator’s Certification


Mental/Visual Demands

Position demands attention in maintaining accurate records. Work under pressure with interruptions and challenging deadlines.


Required Essential Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 75 pounds of force. Work regularly requires sitting, speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions and requires standing, walking, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, reaching with hands and arms, pushing or pulling and lifting. Work has standard vision requirements; vocal communications is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken work; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken work levels; work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, operating machines and observing general surroundings and activities. Work is generally in a moderately noisy location, occasionally walk on uneven and unstable surfaces such as construction sites, wooded areas and ditch embankments.


Environment

Frequently subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions and extreme temperatures, cold and heat. Position will encounter dusty, windy, wet and icy work conditions.


Position Location

Primary location is Swede Point Park, Madrid, IA. Some traveling is required. Telecommuting is NOT approved for this position. Successful candidate will be offered a chance to live in the county residence at Swede Point Park as a rented residence.


Contacts

Position requires regular daily contact with others such as the public, other county offices and vendors.


Accountability

Accuracy is important to avoid errors in recording transactions. Be reliable, responsible, and dependable in fulfilling obligations. Reliable work attendance. Maintain a high level of confidentiality and personal high level of integrity. Represent Boone County and perform duties in a professional, responsible and trustworthy manner.


The Above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work
performed by employee assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an
exhaustive list of all skills, effort, responsibilities and working conditions required of a
person assigned to this job classification. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer
and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and
requirements of the job change.Requirements: