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Park Ranger Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO (NOW HIRING)

South Suburban

Park Ranger

Centennial, CO · On-site

$46K/yr

Park Ranger (Full Time, Non-Exempt) Application Closing Deadline: For best consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00pm on August 3, 2026 Hiring Range is $46,184 to $ 53,183 ...

Denver Int'l. Airport

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or supervision, and park regulation compliance preferred Possession of current:CPR/First Aid Certification ...

Denver

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or supervision, and park regulation compliance preferred Possession of current:CPR/First Aid Certification ...

City and County of Denver

Senior Park Ranger

Denver, CO · On-site

$27.89 - $40.10/hr

Professional experience in various Park Ranger related duties; experience with lead work or supervision, and park regulation compliance preferred Possession of current:CPR/First Aid Certification ...

City of Aurora

Park Ranger

Aurora, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $29.50/hr

The Park Ranger role provides public safety, natural resource management, and community outreach primarily at sites and facilities assigned to the Open Space and Forestry Division of the Parks ...

City of Aurora

Park Ranger

Aurora, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $29.50/hr

The Park Ranger role provides public safety, natural resource management, and community outreach primarily at sites and facilities assigned to the Open Space and Forestry Division of the Parks ...

Island Hospitality Management

Ranger

Larkspur, CO · On-site

$18/hr

As a Ranger, you will assist with all site set-ups for arriving and departing guests. They are ... Commuter benefits including transit & parking * Pet Insurance * PTO and Payroll Incentives for ...

IHM Outdoors

Ranger

Larkspur, CO

$18/hr

Description As a Ranger, you will assist with all site set-ups for arriving and departing guests ... Commuter benefits including transit & parking * Pet Insurance * PTO and Payroll Incentives for ...

IHM Outdoors

Workcampers

Larkspur, CO

$15.50 - $20/hr

Park Ranger * Overnight Ranger * Store Clerk * Resort Housekeeper * Campground Custodian * Bartender * Cook Pay rates will vary depending on position. Workcampers will receive a discounted RV site.

Island Hospitality Management

Workcampers

Larkspur, CO · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Park Ranger * Overnight Ranger * Store Clerk * Resort Housekeeper * Campground Custodian * Bartender * Cook Pay rates will vary depending on position. Workcampers will receive a discounted RV site.

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All JobsPark Ranger JobsPark Ranger Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Park Ranger information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$12

$21

$41

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Highlands Ranch, CO is $21.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $22.45 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 cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Park Ranger job openings:
Park Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,109 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Urban Park Ranger IV

Urban Park Ranger IV

Highlands Ranch Metro District

Littleton, CO • On-site

$33.76 - $40.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Love the outdoors and making a difference in your community?

The Highlands Ranch Metro District is seeking an experienced Urban Park Ranger IV to serve as a senior field park ranger within the Urban Park Ranger Program. This position is ideal for an experienced park ranger, law enforcement professional, or public safety professional who enjoys working with others while remaining actively engaged in field operations.

This position is an in the field position focused on outreach and education, enforcement of rules and regulations for the Metro District, and providing support to Rangers and staff as needed.

About the Urban Park Ranger Program

Highlands Ranch Urban Park Rangers are responsible for outreach and education, rules enforcement on more than 2,600 acres of open space, 68 miles of trails, 26 parks, and numerous other recreation facilities. Rangers promote safe and enjoyable public spaces through education, customer service, community engagement, resource stewardship, and consistent enforcement of Metro District rules and regulations.

Rangers conduct proactive patrols, investigate violations, issue warnings, parking citations, and criminal summons when appropriate, prepare reports and case documentation, work closely with partner agencies, and rely on outreach and education first to resolve public safety and resource protection concerns.

The Urban Park Ranger Program works collaboratively with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, South Metro Fire Rescue, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Douglas County Animal Services, and other regional partners to provide quality services to the Highlands Ranch community.

Your Role

Working alongside fellow rangers, you'll help coordinate daily operations, assist in training newer staff, provide technical expertise, and promote consistency in customer service, rules enforcement, and field decision-making.

What You'll Do
  • Promote voluntary compliance through communication, education, and problem-solving.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, integrity, and exceptional public service.
  • Assist in the training of new Rangers while supporting ongoing professional development.
  • Patrol parks, trails, open spaces, and District facilities.
  • Enforce Metro District rules and regulations through education, warnings, parking citations, and criminal summons when appropriate.
  • Prepare reports, citations, summons, and supporting documentation.
  • Respond to visitors’ concerns, complaints, emergencies, and requests for service.
  • Coordinate with Douglas County Sheriff's Office, South Metro Fire Rescue, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Douglas County Animal Services, and other partner agencies.
  • Assist with special events, emergency response, and operational planning.
  • Support supervisors/managers by identifying training needs, recommending process improvements, and promoting consistent field practices.
We're Looking for Someone Who...
  • Balances education, customer service, and regulatory enforcement.
  • Exercises sound judgment and remains calm under pressure.
  • Build trust with coworkers, partner agencies, and the public.
  • Communicates professionally and respectfully.
  • Takes initiative while supporting the goals of the team.
  • Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Experience That Transfers WellExperience in the following areas is highly valued:
  • Park ranger operations
  • Law enforcement or public safety
  • Visitor services and public engagement
  • Rules enforcement
  • Report writing and case documentation
  • Issuing citations, parking violations, or summons
  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation
  • Field training
  • Working collaboratively with partner agencies
Why Highlands Ranch?

This is an opportunity to become a respected member of the Highlands Ranch Metro District team within a professional Urban Park Ranger Program that values service, stewardship, and collaboration.

You'll help shape daily operations, assist in training future rangers, and strengthen partnerships with regional public safety agencies, all while remaining actively engaged in the field.

Join Our Team

If you're an experienced field professional who enjoys outreach and education, solving problems, and serving your community, we'd love to hear from you.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week, with days and hours varying. The work schedule will vary from Monday through Sunday with the daily workday varying between 6:00a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Due to the nature of this position, work hours are dependent on weather conditions, season, projects, events and programs, meeting and/or staffing levels and will include evenings, early mornings, and weekend hours. May be required to work holidays as staffing needs dictate.

Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the job.

Our Benefits

At Highlands Ranch Metro District, we prioritize your well-being and recognize the importance of a work/life balance by offering outstanding benefits:

Health & Retirement!
  • 100% paid employee-only medical insurance premiums
  • 100% paid employee-only dental & vision insurance premiums
  • 100% paid life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance premiums
  • 100% contribution match for the pension plan
  • Up to 6% contribution match for the optional retirement plan
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for additional medical expenses
Work/life Balance!
  • 80 hours of paid sick leave (renewed each year on work anniversary)
  • 10 paid holidays in 2025
  • 200 hours of medical leave
  • 80 hours of vacation leave accrual each year, increasing after five years
Wellness & Improvement!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support, guidance, and resources for employees and their families
  • Up to $2,000 a year for education reimbursement
  • Highlands Ranch Community Association recreation center pass for a discounted fee
Saving, Planning & Other!
  • Optional 457 deferred compensation plan to help employees plan for their retirement.
  • Generous stipend for personal cell phone and vehicle use
  • Discounts for employees on over 1,000 products and services
Application Information

Visit our career center at highlandsranch.org/apply to see full job description and submit applications.

Applications will be accepted for at least two weeks or until the position is filled.

Pre-employment screening includes background check, illegal substances screening and motor vehicle record check.