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Park Ranger Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ranger

Hohenwald, TN · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

The Campground Ranger position may include walking or patrol of the grounds of the campground answering questions, enforcing rules and ensuring the safety of our guests and their belongings. The ...

Ranger

Hohenwald, TN · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Hohenwald, Tennessee. What you'll do: The Campground Rangerposition may include walking or patrol of the grounds of the campground answering questions ...

About Shelby Farms Park Conservancy Shelby Farms Park Conservancy (SFPC) is the nonprofit that ... Position Summary The Ranger III / Lead Ranger serves as a working team lead responsible for ...

Park Services Attendant

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Reports To: Park Services Team Leaders & Park Services Supervisors Job Objective: To provide a clean, healthy and safe working environment for our guests and fellow associates. Duties ...

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Park Ranger information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$18

$35

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Tennessee is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.42 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Tennessee are:
What job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Park Ranger job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in TN? For Park Ranger jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
PARK RANGER 1 - 06232026-78556

PARK RANGER 1 - 06232026-78556

Tennessee State Government

Nashville, TN • On-site

$54K - $68K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Information
State of Tennessee Job Information
Opening Date/Time
06/23/2026 12:00AM Central Time
Closing Date/Time
07/06/2026 11:59PM Central Time
Salary (Monthly)
$4,562.00 - $5,694.00
Salary (Annually)
$54,744.00 - $68,328.00
Job Type
Full-Time
City, State Location
Hermitage, TN
Department
Environment and Conservation
LOCATION OF (1) POSITION TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION, DAVIDSON COUNTY
This position is located at Long Hunter State Park
For more information, visit the link below:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/job-announcements-/preferred-service/00011658_tsp_park_ranger_1_lhsp_tdec-job-opp_ps_ua.pdf
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's
degree.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Applicants for this class must:
  • Be willing to and able to qualify with, carry, and use assigned weapons
  • Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age on the date of application
  • Be a citizen of the United States
  • Have a good moral character, as determined by investigation
  • Complete a criminal history disclosure form in a manner approved by the appointing authority
  • Agree to release all records involving their criminal history to the appointing authority
  • Supply a fingerprint sample in a manner prescribed by the TBI for a fingerprint-based criminal
    history records check
  • Have no conviction for a felony or have been discharged under any other than honorable conditions
    from any branch of the United States armed forces
  • Pass a physical examination administered by a licensed physician that is consistent with the
    Americans with Disabilities Act and that relates to the essential functions of the position
  • Pass a psychological evaluation administered by a licensed mental health professional that is
    consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and that relates to the essential functions of
    the position
  • Possess a valid motor vehicle operator's license at the time of appointment
  • Upon appointment, successfully complete a prescribed course of instruction at the Tennessee Law
    Enforcement Academy or have successfully completed the equivalent of the prescribed course.
  • All commissioned Officers of the Tennessee State Parks will complete 63 hours First Responder
    (Emergency Medical Care) or State of Tennessee equivalent course upon being hired and maintain
    their First Responder certification.

  • During their careers, most rangers can expect to be assigned to several different parts of the
    state. While employee work location preference is considered, there is no guarantee that a ranger
    will remain stationed in only one area.
    Examination Method: Education and Experience, 100%, for Preferred Service positions.
    Overview
    This position is part of the Tennessee State Parks Park Ranger series for TDEC. This is the entry-level classification in the TSP Park Ranger Series. Under immediate supervision, this classification is responsible for law enforcement, emergency medical response, safety and security of the park and general public, resource-based interpretation, resource management, supervision of full and part-time employees, supporting park operations, and providing maintenance within a state park. This class differs from a TSP Park Ranger 2 in that an incumbent of the latter performs at the working level. This class differs from that of TSP Park Ranger 3 in that the latter performs leadership responsibilities and increasingly complex work.
    *An applicant appointed to this flexibly staffed class will be reclassified to the next higher class in the series after successful completion of a mandatory two-year training period. Inadequate performance during the initial two-year training period will result in automatic demotion or termination.
    Responsibilities
  • Enforces the laws of Tennessee and the rules and regulations of TSP.
  • Maintains security in the park and identifies potential criminal and illicit activities.
  • Inspects project area upon completion of job to determine quality of work and safety of facility.
  • Utilizes a variety of vehicles and equipment, such as a skid steer, forklifts, backhoes, chainsaws, tractors, boats, etc.
  • Oversees upkeep of park maintenance, facilities, boundaries, and trail system.
  • Assists with other projects or educational outreach efforts as assigned by leadership.
  • Communicates regularly with supervisors, direct reports, and peers in regard to operational goals, initiatives, and priorities.

  • Competencies (KSA's)
    1. Instills Trust
    2. Manages Conflict
    3. Decision Quality
    4. Communicates Effectively
    5. Directs Work
    Knowledges:
    1. Customer and Personal Service
    2. Communications and Media
    3. Public Safety and Security
    4. Biology
    5. History and Archeology
    Skills:
    1. Reading Comprehension
    2. Speaking
    3. Judgment and Decision Making
    4. Critical Thinking
    5. Active Learning and Listening
    Abilities:
    1. Speech Recognition
    2. Limb and/or Full Body Flexibility
    3. Written Comprehension
    4. Reaction Time
    5. Prolonged Stamina
    Tools & Equipment
    1. Law Enforcement Equipment (i.e firearms, handcuffs, baton, oleoresin capsicum spray)
    2. Medical Equipment (E.g. AED's, Medical oxygen tank, Blood pressure cuffs, etc.)
    3. Hand Tools (fire management/trail tools)
    4. Computer/ Cell Phone & Radio
    5. Vehicles and Equipment