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Parks Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crystal Lake Parks

Police Officer-PT

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Are you passionate about public service, community engagement, and protecting local parks and natural resources? Join the Crystal Lake Park District as a Park Police Officer and be part of a ...

Crystal Lake Parks

Police Officer-PT

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Are you passionate about public service, community engagement, and protecting local parks and natural resources? Join the Crystal Lake Park District as a Park Police Officer and be part of a ...

City of Stamford

Park Police

Stamford, CT · On-site

$45/hr

Patrols parks, beaches, skating rink and other recreational facilities as assigned, by foot and/or ... Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training ("POSTC") certification which must be ...

City of Stamford, CT

Park Police

Washington, CT · On-site

$45/hr

Parks Maintenance Opening Date: 06/13/2025 Bargaining Unit: N/A JOB SUMMARY Under the general direction of the Police Chief is responsible for enforcing regulations, maintaining police security and ...

County of Bucks

Park Police Officer

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$27.56/hr

Safeguards parks and related facilities. * Ability to deal effectively with the public. * Patrol and secures parks while enforcing park rules and maintains order. * Investigates all incidents and ...

ROCKFORD PARK DISTRICT

Police Officer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$33.41/hr

... all parks and park district related activities. ROCKFORD PARK DISTRICT VISION, MISSION AND ... Agency MissionThe Rockford Park District Police Department is in business to "help people enjoy ...

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Parks Police information

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$27.5K

$64.5K

$101.5K

How much do parks police jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for parks police in the United States is $64,459.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a parks police officer?

Parks Police are specialized law enforcement officers responsible for maintaining safety, enforcing laws, and protecting natural resources within public parks and recreation areas. Their duties often include patrolling park grounds, responding to emergencies, assisting visitors, and ensuring compliance with park regulations. They work to prevent crime, protect wildlife, and promote a safe and enjoyable environment for all park users. Parks Police may work independently or as part of a larger city or county police force.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a parks police officer?

To thrive as a Parks Police Officer, you need a solid background in law enforcement procedures, physical fitness, and typically a police academy certification or equivalent qualification. Familiarity with law enforcement tools such as radios, patrol vehicles, body cameras, and incident reporting systems is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution abilities, and community engagement are vital soft skills for building trust and ensuring public safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining order, protecting park visitors, and effectively handling emergencies in diverse outdoor settings.

What are common challenges faced by parks police officers in their day-to-day duties?

Parks Police officers often navigate unique challenges such as balancing law enforcement with community engagement in public spaces. They regularly deal with a wide range of incidents, from enforcing park regulations and addressing minor disturbances to responding to emergencies or wildlife-related situations. Officers must also be adept at working independently across large outdoor areas, while maintaining strong communication with other law enforcement agencies and local park staff. Adapting to changing weather conditions and high visitor volumes during peak seasons can also add complexity to their responsibilities.

What is the difference between Parks Police vs Park Rangers?

AspectParks PolicePark Rangers
CredentialsPeace officer certification, law enforcement trainingNatural resource management, conservation training
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement settings, parks, and recreation areasNatural parks, wildlife areas, visitor centers
Employer & IndustryGovernment law enforcement agenciesNational, state, or local parks departments
Primary DutiesEnforce laws, respond to emergencies, patrolEducate visitors, preserve natural resources, assist visitors

While both Parks Police and Park Rangers work in park environments, Parks Police focus on law enforcement and maintaining safety, requiring police certification. Park Rangers primarily focus on conservation, education, and visitor assistance, with training in natural resource management. Their roles complement each other in ensuring parks are safe, accessible, and preserved.

More about Parks Police jobs

What cities are hiring for Parks Police jobs?

Cities with the most Parks Police job openings:

What states have the most Parks Police jobs?

States with the most job openings for Parks Police jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Parks Police jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Parks Police jobs are:

Parks Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks Police job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,459 per year, or $31 per hour.

Police Officer-PT

Crystal Lake Parks

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about public service, community engagement, and protecting local parks and natural resources? Join the Crystal Lake Park District as a Park Police Officer and be part of a dedicated team that helps ensure our parks are safe, welcoming, and protected for everyone to enjoy.
Work Schedule: Weekday afternoon shifts; Weekend day & afternoon shifts, required
Position Summary
The Park Police Officer is responsible for enforcing park ordinances and regulations, safeguarding park property and resources, and promoting safety throughout the Crystal Lake Park District. This position involves public interaction, emergency response, and proactive patrolling of park facilities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Enforce Park District ordinances, rules, and regulations
  • Provide support and information to park users
  • Perform routine park patrols and respond to incidents
  • Assist with wildlife, safety hazards, lockouts, and minor obstructions
  • Conduct security checks of buildings, restrooms, and rentals
  • Respond to first aid emergencies and provide CPR/AED/first aid as needed
  • Maintain accurate logs and reports
  • Care for assigned vehicle and equipment
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, parks and recreation, or related field (preferred)
  • Certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in law enforcement, recreation, or natural resource management
  • Strong knowledge of Illinois laws, local ordinances, and police procedures
  • Valid driver's license and ability to pass a defensive driving course
  • CPR/AED and First Aid certified
  • U.S. citizen, 21+ years of age, with corrected vision to 20/20
  • Able to pass psychological and background checks
  • Strong interpersonal and analytical skills
  • Committed to public safety and natural resource preservation
Working Conditions
This role requires physical fitness and the ability to perform duties in various weather and environmental conditions. Officers may encounter stressful or high-risk situations and must be capable of sound judgment and calm decision-making under pressure.
Why Join Us?
  • Serve your community and make a real impact
  • Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment
  • Contribute to the safety and enjoyment of beautiful public parks and facilities
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development

For a complete listing of our benefits, click here.

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