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Park Ranger Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Off-Park Ranger

Columbia, SC · On-site

$41K/yr

Minimum and Additional Requirements Associate degree in Park Management or related field with one (1) year of park ranger experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional ...

Off-Park Ranger

SC · On-site

$41K/yr

Minimum and Additional Requirements Associate degree in Park Management or related field with one (1) year of park ranger experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional ...

New

Public Area Attendant

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Removes all trash from common areas, parking lot and exterior areas of the hotel * Regularly checks all lobby restrooms/wash rooms to ensure cleanliness. * Restocks all supplies including toilet ...

Public Area Attendant

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Removes all trash from common areas, parking lot and exterior areas of the hotel * Regularly checks all lobby restrooms/wash rooms to ensure cleanliness. * Restocks all supplies including toilet ...

Public Area Attendant

Columbia, SC

$13 - $16.50/hr

Removes all trash from common areas, parking lot and exterior areas of the hotel * Regularly checks all lobby restrooms/wash rooms to ensure cleanliness. * Restocks all supplies including toilet ...

Public Area Attendant

Columbia, SC

$13 - $16.50/hr

Removes all trash from common areas, parking lot and exterior areas of the hotel * Regularly checks all lobby restrooms/wash rooms to ensure cleanliness. * Restocks all supplies including toilet ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

Performs approximately all work indoors but will be required to work outside in order to clean parking lots, gas pumps, take out garbage, etc. * Be exposed to occasional cold temperature extremes ...

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Showing results 1-20

Park Ranger information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$19

$36

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Columbia, SC is $19.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.81 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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,759 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

$41K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities The mountain spring-fed Lake Jocassee encompassed by the Jocassee Gorges, waterfalls accessible only by boat and some of the best South Carolina trout fishing are all part of the allure of Devils Fork State Park. The land around 7,565-acre Lake Jocassee remains mostly undeveloped and the only public access point to the lake is through Devils Fork. Four mountain streams and several waterfalls feed into the lake, making it cooler than others and a great South Carolina trout fishing spot.

Plus, the unusually clear water of Lake Jocassee is a haven for scuba divers and swimmers. During the spring months, hikers on the Oconee Bell Nature Trail are treated to sightings of the endangered Oconee bell wildflower. Job Purpose and Duties: Under general supervision, assists with overall operation and maintenance of a State Park.

Performs diversified duties as governed by general instruction, policies and standard operating procedures of the Department. Assumes the responsibilities of the Park Manager in the absence of higher-level employees. 1) Assists with park administrative duties in accordance with department policy and procedures and planning of long and short-term goals.

2) Collect and account for revenue and produce required reports. 3) Instruct, supervise, and perform routine and preventative maintenance on grounds, buildings, and equipment to meet established standards. Maintains a safe work environment.

4) Manages assigned specific operations to include public use areas, retail operations and facilities. 6) Work to accomplish the mission of the Park Service through the core values of Stewardship and Service. Effectively deliver quality customer service and address visitor concerns in a timely manner.

Work to ensure that visitors leave with a positive experience and a desire to return. 7) Assists in control of inventories of equipment, supplies and retail items by issue, use and counts; completes data reports. 8) Instruct, supervise, and perform routine and preventative maintenance on grounds, buildings, and equipment to meet established standards.

Maintains a safe work environment. 9) Practice and promote teamwork within Devils Fork State Park office/work unit, throughout the agency and with external agency stakeholders. Represents office as an active member on a agency team assigned throughout the year.

Continue professional development through relevant readings, podcasts, courses, etc. Minimum and Additional Requirements Associate degree in Park Management or related field with one (1) year of park ranger experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional Requirements: 1) Position requires medium to heavy lifting, walking and standing on uneven terrain, crawling and working at heights.

Exposure to weather conditions, cleaning agents and other material used in maintaining park facilities and grounds. 2) Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 3) Must possess a valid South Carolina Driver's License.

Additional Comments Actual Job Location: Devils Fork State Park Full-time, 40 hours per week rotating schedule including weekends and holidays. The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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