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Park Ranger Jobs in Gurnee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Golf Starter / Ranger

Zion, IL ยท On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

A Golf Starter/Ranger performs customer relations work to assure optimum use of the course facility ... Must be able to work a variable schedule, during Park District business hours. Work schedule to be ...

Golf Starter / Ranger

Zion, IL ยท On-site

$15/hr

A Golf Starter/Ranger performs customer relations work to assure optimum use of the course facility ... Must be able to work a variable schedule, during Park District business hours. Work schedule to be ...

Facility Attendant

Palatine, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Facility Attendant At Palatine Park District, we are all about our Community. Entertaining recreation programs, beautiful parks, and facility fun creates the Park and Rec Life. A career with the ...

Facility Attendant At Palatine Park District, we are all about our Community. Entertaining recreation programs, beautiful parks, and facility fun creates the Park and Rec Life. A career with the ...

Takiff Attendant (Part-Time)

Glencoe, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

The Glencoe Park District is a nationally accredited, Gold Medal Award-winning agency dedicated to enriching lives, building community, and fostering an inclusive, positive environment where everyone ...

Takiff Attendant (Part-Time)

Glencoe, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

The Glencoe Park District is a nationally accredited, Gold Medal Award-winning agency dedicated to enriching lives, building community, and fostering an inclusive, positive environment where everyone ...

Facility Attendant IMRF

Palatine, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $17.25/hr

Facility Attendant -- IMRF (Pension) Position Summary Palatine Park District is hiring a Facility Attendant IMRF positions at our various facilities, including the Community Center, Falcon Park, and ...

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Park Ranger information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$11

$19

$38

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Gurnee, IL is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $20.53 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 Gurnee, IL?

The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Gurnee, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in Gurnee, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Gurnee, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Gurnee, IL are:

What cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Park Ranger jobs?

Cities near Gurnee, IL with the most Park Ranger job openings:

Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Gurnee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,250 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Golf Starter / Ranger

ZION PARK DISTRICT

Zion, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

Status of Employment: Part-Time

Supervised By: Golf Operations Manager

General Statement of Duties: A Golf Starter/Ranger performs customer relations work to assure optimum use of the course facility through monitoring speed of play, inspecting registrations and sales receipts for validity, and providing information on course rules and procedures. Work requires initiative, independent judgment and diplomacy in order to maintain optimum golf course use and effective public relations. This position requires light janitorial duties in/around the clubhouse and the course as needed. Additionally, the Starter/Ranger is responsible for the daily staging, rotation, fueling and cleaning of golf carts.

Distinguishing Features of Position: Duties require weekend and holiday shifts that may begin as early 5am and shifts that may conclude as late as 10pm.

Qualifications of Required knowledge and Abilities: Requires any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to graduation from high school or GED, and 1-3 experience involving public contact in a service or sales capacity. Basic knowledge of the game of golf is required.

Hours: This position will work on average, 12-20 hours per week Monday through Sunday, depending on the needs of the Park District. Must be able to work a variable schedule, during Park District business hours. Work schedule to be approved by the Golf Operations Manager.ย 

Duties and Responsibilities - Essentials Functions - not limited to the following:

  • Arrives on time, in uniform and ready to work, as scheduled.
  • Effectively communicates, both verbally and in writing with supervisor, staff and public.
  • Reconcile account of players and document speed of play.
  • Customer service related inquiries and problems for both internal and external customers
  • Troubleshoots customer service issues.
  • Assists patrons with questions related to the golf operation and the Zion Park District.ย 
  • Assists other staff with special projects and performs other duties as assigned.ย 
  • Insures that the building and work areas are maintained and organized professionally and in a positive atmosphere.
  • Responsible for understand the importance of safety issues at the Park District, for adhering to the safety manual and associated policies, toward achieving the safety goals of the Park District
  • Follow procedures for opening or closing the facility.


Requirements

Physical Requirements

The physical considerations described herein 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.

  • Seeing: To observe participants, to observe safety conditions, for written communication.
  • Hearing: For safety awareness, to effectively communicate with public and staff.
  • Speaking: To effectively communicate with public and staff.
  • Sitting: To perform office tasks at desk, etc.
  • Standing: To observe participants and staff.
  • Walking: To move from location to location to observe activities.
  • Handling: To utilize writing instruments or computer keyboard, cash register.
  • Running: Running maybe required to help a participant.
  • Lifting: Lifting maybe required to move supplies and equipment.
  • Stooping: Stooping maybe required to help a participant, clean facility or pick up supplies or equipment.
  • Pushing/Pulling: to open and close desk drawers and doors.
  • Climbing: To climb stairs in facilities.

Cognitive Considerations

  • Ability to comprehend written and verbal communications.
  • Ability to recognize and demonstrate sound safety measures.
  • Ability to reason; process information and make informed rational judgements.

Environmental Considerations

  • Work requires exposure to a wide range of weather and environmental conditions.

Safety

Employee is responsible for understanding the importance of safety issues, rules, policies, and to comply with said rules and policies.

  • Report unsafe conditions and document incidents or accidents as per Zion Park District policy.
  • Work to achieve goals and objectives of the Safety Committee of Zion Park District.


Disclaimer

  • This description is not intended as a complete list of specific duties and responsibilities nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct and control the work of the employees under supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind of level of difficulty.
  • The Zion Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the bases of their qualifications for the job in question. Federal and/or state law prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or any other protected status. Please advise us if any accommodations are required to assist you in performing your job.ย