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Park Ranger Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

Junior Ranger

Occoquan, VA · On-site

$14/hr

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

Senior Ranger

Occoquan, VA · On-site

$17/hr

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

The Junior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities. Pay Rate ... Patrols park in NOVA Parks vehicles or on foot to ensure safety and security of park visitors and ...

The Senior Ranger assists with the operation and maintenance of the park and facilities and may assume charge of park operations in the absence of Park Management. Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour Major ...

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Park Ranger information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

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$41

How much do park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for park ranger in Reston, VA is $21.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.26 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.

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.

How much do park rangers make in a year?

The average annual salary for park rangers in the United States is around $40,000 to $50,000, though it can vary based on experience, location, and agency. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced rangers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA? For Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Park Ranger jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Park Ranger jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various Park Ranger job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 37% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,711 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

$27.66/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

This position is located in Rock Creek Park for a non-supervisory Park Ranger (Seasonal) who performs a variety of tasks associated ith the use and management of park resources. This position description is generic in nature and is not intended to include every duty found at every park throughout the system.

Open to the first 50 applicants or until 06/17/2026 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.

Qualifications:

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-06/17/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your resume MUST clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment (month/year), and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount qualified specialized experience.
To qualify for this position at the GS-07 grade level, you must possess all of the following minimum qualifications by close of the announcement:
EXPERIENCE: At least one full year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility to the GS-05 grade level in the Federal service (obtained in either the public or private sectors). This experience includes experience that equipped the applicant with the particular compentencies needed to successfully perform the duties of this position. Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to, Park Guide or tour leader; environmental educator or teacher; develop and deliver structured and informal presentations using various communication techniques to a variety of audiences; archeological or historical preservation research work involving presentations. You must include hours per week worked.
-OR-
EDUCATION: Successful completion of at least one full year of graduate study in one of the following fields: natural resource management, natural sciences, marine biology/sciences, earth sciences, history, archeology, anthropology, park and recreation management, law enforcement/police science, social sciences, wetlands ecology, or other closely related subjects pertinent to the management and protection of natural and cultural resources. (One year of graduate education is 18 semester hours or 27 quarter hours). You must include transcripts.
-OR-
Successful completion of a combination of education and experience as described above. Must possess an equivalent combination of such education and experience. For example, 6 months of the specialized experience described above (50% of the experience requirement), and one-half year (9 semester hours or 14 quarter hours) of directly related graduate level college study in an accredited institution (50% of the qualifying education). The total must equal at least 100 percent to qualify. You must include transcripts.
You must include months, years and hours per week worked to receive credit for your work and/or volunteer experience. One year of specialized experience is equivalent to 12 months at 40 hours per week. Part-time hours are prorated. You will not receive any credit for experience that does not indicate exact hours per week or is listed as "varies". Experience listed as full-time will be credited at 40 hours per week.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:To qualify based on education, you must submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution with your name, school name, credit hours, course level, major(s), and grade-point average or class ranking. Transcripts do not need to be official, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.
If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet qualification requirements, you must show that your education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.
Employment Type: OTHER