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Park Service Ranger Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Commonwealth of Kentucky

State Park Ranger I

Pineville, KY · On-site

$2.9K - $4.4K/mo

Attimes, the Kentucky State Park Ranger may provide services to park guests such as trail rescues, first aid,and general information about the park and area attractions. Candidates for this position ...

City of Paducah, KY

Park Ranger - Parks

Paducah, KY · On-site

$14/hr

Provide excellent customer service interactions to park visitors. * Conducts routine patrols of all city parks and facilities. * Provides assistance with traffic control measures in parks for ...

City of Paducah

Park Ranger - Parks

Paducah, KY

$14/hr

Provide excellent customer service interactions to park visitors. * Conducts routine patrols of all city parks and facilities. * Provides assistance with traffic control measures in parks for ...

City of Paducah

Park Ranger - Parks

Paducah, KY · On-site

$14/hr

Provide excellent customer service interactions to park visitors. * Conducts routine patrols of all city parks and facilities. * Provides assistance with traffic control measures in parks for ...

All JobsPark Service Ranger JobsPark Service Ranger Jobs in Kentucky

Park Service Ranger information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$17

$34

How much do park service ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for park service ranger in Kentucky is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Park Service Ranger vs Park Maintenance Worker?

AspectPark Service RangerPark Maintenance Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, park-specific training, sometimes certifications in first aid or law enforcementHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic technical skills, safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor parks, visitor centers, natural and historic sitesPark grounds, maintenance facilities, outdoor and indoor work areas
Employer & Industry UsageNational, state, or local parks; federal agenciesPark agencies, municipalities, conservation organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesMaintenance tasks, job requirements, work conditions

While both roles work within park environments, Park Service Rangers focus on visitor safety, law enforcement, and educational programs, requiring specialized training. Park Maintenance Workers primarily handle upkeep, repairs, and groundskeeping. Both positions are essential for park operations but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Park Service Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Park Service Ranger, you need a solid background in environmental science, public safety, and resource management, often supported by a relevant degree or prior experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and certifications in first aid or law enforcement are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and public speaking abilities help rangers educate visitors and handle emergencies. These skills ensure the protection of natural resources, the safety of park visitors, and the delivery of effective public outreach.

What is the highest paying park ranger job?

The highest paying park ranger positions are often supervisory or specialized roles, such as Chief Ranger or Park Superintendent, which can earn significantly higher salaries than entry-level rangers. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and sometimes advanced certifications, with salaries varying by park and region but generally reaching six figures for top-level positions.

What are Park Service Rangers?

Park Service Rangers are professionals responsible for protecting and managing national, state, or local parks and natural resources. They enforce park rules and regulations, provide educational programs to visitors, conduct search and rescue operations, and help preserve wildlife and cultural sites. Rangers may also perform maintenance tasks, respond to emergencies, and assist with conservation efforts to ensure that parks remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.

What are some typical challenges Park Service Rangers face in balancing conservation efforts with visitor engagement?

Park Service Rangers often navigate the challenge of protecting natural and cultural resources while ensuring a positive and educational experience for visitors. This balance requires clear communication, creative problem-solving, and the ability to enforce regulations tactfully. Rangers must frequently adapt to unpredictable conditions, such as sudden weather changes or high visitor volumes, while maintaining a welcoming presence. Collaboration with colleagues, volunteers, and partner organizations is also vital to achieving both conservation and public service goals.

Is becoming a park ranger worth it?

Becoming a park service ranger can be rewarding for those interested in outdoor work, conservation, and public education. The job often involves physical activity, knowledge of environmental policies, and sometimes irregular hours, with salaries varying based on experience and location. It can offer a fulfilling career for individuals passionate about natural resources and community engagement.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Park Service Rangers typically do not earn $2000 a day; their salaries are generally based on government pay scales and experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often include specialized roles such as corporate executives, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These roles are usually found in private sector industries rather than public park services.

Is it hard to get a park ranger job?

Becoming a park service ranger can be competitive due to limited openings and specific requirements such as relevant education, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid. Candidates often need experience in outdoor activities, conservation, or law enforcement, and the hiring process may involve interviews and background checks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky? For Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Park Service Ranger jobs in Kentucky are:
Park Service Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Park Service Ranger job openings in Kentucky as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,327 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
State Park Ranger I

State Park Ranger I

Commonwealth of Kentucky

Pineville, KY • On-site

$2.9K - $4.4K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Advertisement Closes
6/25/2026 (8:00 PM EDT)
req78754
State Park Ranger I
Pay Grade12
Salary
$2,976.04 - $4,464.04 Monthly
Employment Type
EXECUTIVE BRANCH FULL TIME ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY 18A 37.5 HR/WK
Click here for more details on state employment.
Hiring Agency
Tourism, Arts, & Heritage Cabinet Kentucky Department of Parks
Location
1050 State Park Rd
Pineville, KY 40977 USA
Description
The Kentucky State Park Ranger Division has an opening at Pine Mountain State Resort Park for a State ParkRanger I. A Kentucky State Park Ranger enforces state laws on Kentucky State Park properties, protecting ourguests and property and providing a safe environment. Shifts may vary depending on the needs of the park. Attimes, the Kentucky State Park Ranger may provide services to park guests such as trail rescues, first aid,and general information about the park and area attractions.
Candidates for this position are required to have 1 year of law enforcement experience as a sworn policeofficer. Information about reciprocity can be found here: https://justice.ky.gov/Boards-Commissions/KLEC/programs/Pages/reciprocity.aspx
The ideal candidate will have:
  • Required Peace Officer Professional Standards (POPS) Certification. For more information visit:https://docjt.ky.gov/
  • A working knowledge of Kentucky Revised Statutes.
  • The ability to quickly learn the policies and procedures of the Kentucky State Parks and RangerDivision.
  • Have a strong work ethic and be able to work alone with minimal supervision.
  • The ability to use basic computer programs.
  • Strong verbal and written skills.
The Rangers Division offers these great benefits:
  • Participation in hazardous duty retirement through KPPA.
  • KLEFPF stipend.
  • Paid time off (sick and vacation) plus paid holidays.
  • Overtime and compensatory time opportunities.
  • Affordable health insurance.
  • Life insurance.
  • Optional dental and vision insurances.
  • Wellness incentives program.
  • Training and career development opportunities; paid continuing education.
  • Optional Deferred Compensation program (401K).
If you enjoy the outdoors, interacting with people and working independently consider applying to become aKentucky State Park Ranger!
Kentucky State Park Ranger Division is a participating Kentucky Law Enforcement Foundation Program Fund(KLEFPF) agency. Rangers are required to possess and maintain a Peace Officer Professional Standards (POPS)certificate. Rangers currently receive an additional $4,562 training stipend each year for adhering to thetraining guidelines established by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC).
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION:High school graduate.
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS:Must have one year of law enforcement experience as a sworn police officer.
Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE:NONE
Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION:NONE
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.):Must be twenty-one years of age. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license to qualify for employment in this job classification. Employees in this job title are subject to the provisions of KRS Chapter 15 and 503 KAR 1:140 relating to peace officer certification as administered by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council. Must maintain any required licensure(s), certification (s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification. Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certification(s) or other credentials.
Working Conditions
Conditions are consistent with other law enforcement officers. Incumbents working in this job title perform work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
Probationary Period
This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 9 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Donald Shearer at donald.shearer@ky.gov .
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D

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