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Park Service Ranger Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Toledo, OH · On-site

$24.16 - $35.79/hr

Description Join Metroparks Toledo as a Park Ranger. In this role, you keep our parks safe and ... Answer all emergency and non-emergency calls for service. * Attend assigned training classes and ...

Part-time Park Ranger

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$26.35 - $29.78/hr

Customer Service orientation. Basic computer competency with word processing and data entry ... the Ranger may be required to assume positions of kneeling; crouching; crawling; bending, or ...

Seasonal Fox Den Clubhouse

OH · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

These positions assist with course upkeep, guest services, and general facility operations to ... Essential Functions 1. Starter / Ranger * Focus: Maintain a smooth flow of play and a positive ...

Park Service Ranger information

See Ohio salary details

$11

$19

$37

How much do park service ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for park service ranger in Ohio is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.34 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Park Service Ranger jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Service Ranger jobs in Ohio? For Park Service Ranger jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Park Service Ranger jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Park Service Ranger jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Park Service Ranger jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Park Service Ranger job openings:
Park Ranger (part-time) - Seneca

$23 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Application Deadline: Posted until filled. 
Salary Range: $23.00 - $27.00 per hour
Location: Seneca Park
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Classification: Variable 
Safety Sensitive: Yes

Note: This position is classified as a variable hours position. This means that if hired, the employee would remain in an active status with MWCD throughout the year, but the working hours will vary. If you have questions about our variable hour classification, please call the MWCD Human Resources department at 330-556-4811.  

Park and Lake Rangers ensure the safety of the park and lake guests through routine patrol and enforcement activities. A ranger should expect to spend a considerable amount of time performing public relations activities and public education. Rangers work very closely with the park registration in assisting park guests with a variety of customer-related services. A current Ohio Peace Officer's Training Academy (OPOTA) certification is required. 

Summary of Responsibilities

Ensures the safety of park and lake guests and the security of park and lake property through routine patrol and enforcement activities. A Park/Lake Ranger will spend considerable time performing public relations activities and public education, ensuring excellent customer service is provided to all MWCD guests.

Responds to concerns, complaints, and disturbances on water and land. Enforces the provisions of the Ohio Revised Code, safe boating laws, MWCD rules and regulations, as well as Campground Rules and Guidelines.

Practices standard MWCD safety procedures in performing job duties and assists other MWCD personnel as required.

Essential Functions include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

Patrols MWCD property, investigates incidents and complaints, issues warnings, citations, and makes arrests. Performs boating safety inspections, executes bench warrants and works with various law enforcement agencies in investigative and preventative measures. Enforces state laws as well as the Conservancy District rules and regulations. Renders assistance to the public by providing information pertinent to MWCD facilities, safety requirements, boater education, and points of interest in the area. 

Administers first aid and rescue as required.

Maintains required ranger logs, vehicle/equipment checks, and supplies inventory. Reports mechanical and or safety issues to appropriate supervisor.

Appropriately utilizes warnings, citations, and arrests to enforce state laws as well as MWCD rules. Compiles law enforcement related statistics, keeps records, and prepares reports of law enforcement related activities.

While working as Park Ranger, assists park guests with finding a campsite, monitors campsites and reservations, completes daily camp lot occupied checks, and ensures Campground Rules and Guidelines are being followed.

Notifies appropriate manager of any safety concerns realized while performing job duties.

Notifies appropriate manager of any law enforcement / customer issues that require further attention.

Skills and Abilities

Education:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

Experience in park operations, record keeping, office machines, computers and radio communication systems are preferred. Strong skills in working with people and the public in general are required.

Computer Skills:

Basic computer skills required

Certifications & Licenses:

Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA - Basic Police Academy Training Course) certification is required. The employee will be required to successfully pass a firearms qualification course as outlined by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission. The employee will be required to obtain or renew a CPR/first aid certification. Driver’s license valid in the state of Ohio.

Abilities:

Ability to maintain confidential information. Good communication skills and the ability to work well with the public are required.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Other Requirements, Expectations, or Unusual Conditions

This position requires weekend, evening and holiday work. Overtime work is required as necessary. Working extra hours during spring and summer months is required, with some workdays exceeding 10 hours. Involvement in local community organizations and/or activities is expected. For Lake Rangers, an Ohio’s Boater Education Card is required and must be able to swim, tread water, and be comfortable working on and around the water.