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Remote Forest Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director, Forest Ranger Services

Albany, NY · On-site +1

$133K - $168K/yr

Directly supervise the Assistant Director of DFP, the regional and the central office Forest Ranger ... remote areas of the state. Oversee Licensed Guide Program. Ensure all Division members receive ...

Forest Service on the Oakmulgee Ranger District of the Talladega National Forest as directed by a ... Ability to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on ...

... Ranger District of the Talladega National forest as directed by a Burn Crew Manager or other ... They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous ...

... Ranger Districts of the Talladega National forest as directed by a Burn Crew Manager or other ... They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous ...

Remote Forest Ranger information

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$10

$22

$45

How much do remote forest ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote forest ranger in the United States is $22.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote forest ranger?

A Remote Forest Ranger is responsible for protecting and managing natural resources in remote wilderness areas. Duties include monitoring wildlife, enforcing park regulations, assisting visitors, and responding to emergencies. They often work alone or in small teams, using GPS, radios, and other tools to patrol vast, often inaccessible areas. The job requires outdoor survival skills, knowledge of ecology, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote forest ranger?

To thrive as a Remote Forest Ranger, you need a strong understanding of forestry management, environmental science, and field safety, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, remote sensing technologies, and certifications like EMT or wilderness first aid are typically expected. Excellent problem-solving, self-motivation, and clear communication skills help you navigate solo work and coordinate with teams remotely. These abilities are crucial for effective ecosystem monitoring, public safety, and prompt response to environmental incidents in isolated areas.

What are some common challenges faced by remote forest rangers?

Remote Forest Rangers often work independently in secluded locations, which can mean handling unexpected emergencies, navigation issues, or rapidly changing weather conditions without immediate backup. Staying connected with colleagues and reporting findings may require comfort with satellite communication tools and digital reporting platforms. Successfully balancing fieldwork with administrative duties and data analysis is also a regular part of the job. However, these challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for those who are resourceful, resilient, and passionate about conserving natural environments.

How do you become a remote forest ranger?

To become a remote forest ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in forestry, conservation, or outdoor management. Many positions require certification in first aid, CPR, or firefighting, and strong skills in navigation, communication, and environmental monitoring are essential. A background in biology or environmental science can also be beneficial.
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The most popular types of Forest Ranger jobs are:

What states have the most Remote Forest Ranger jobs?

States with the most job openings for Remote Forest Ranger jobs include:

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Infographic showing various Remote Forest Ranger job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, 74% Full Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,872 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Director, Forest Ranger Services

Albany, NY • On-site, Remote

New York State
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$133K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Duties Description Under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of the Office of Public Protection, the Director of the Division of Forest Protection plans, directs and oversees the delivery of all programs and services provided by the Division of Forest Protection (DFP). Duties include: Plan & direct the DFP programs to ensure that managerial and resource programming processes are properly applied and executed on a timely basis. Advise the Deputy Commissioner for Public Protection on the formulation of policy relative to the Department's responsibilities for statewide management of the Division's programs.

Directly supervise the Assistant Director of DFP, the regional and the central office Forest Ranger 3's (Captains). Indirectly supervise all other staff within the Division. Perform executive functions required for the effective management and administration of the Division's programs.

Oversee and direct the budget processing, program evaluation and reporting; participate in labor/management meetings, negotiations and the development of memoranda of understanding. Oversee all personnel transactions including staff placement, hiring and complaints against division members. Maintain a wildfire program to extinguish wildfires in as short a time interval from detection as possible utilizing modern suppression techniques to limit acreage burned.

Provide a State Land Stewardship Program utilizing Division personnel who are responsible for care, custody and control of lands administered by the Department. Maintain a program of Search and Rescue to ensure high level of preparedness of the Forest Ranger force and volunteers for the purpose of locating and rescuing individuals who become lost or injured in the wild and remote areas of the state. Oversee Licensed Guide Program.

Ensure all Division members receive necessary/mandated training in law enforcement health and safety, fire management and search & rescue. Represent the Department on various commissions and task forces and advises Executive staff on major issues. Promote inter-division and inter-agency cooperation and coordination through meetings and work groups.

Prepares correspondence to other Division heads, outside agencies and the public on various topics related to program delivery. Oversee and prepare various reports and correspondences for the Commissioner's office. Work to advance the agency's commitment to diversity and inclusion by assessing and addressing barriers and opportunities in recruitment and hiring practices and demonstrate a commitment to cultural competency.

Minimum Qualifications Eleven years of police law enforcement experience in emergency response related to environmental conservation, protection, or natural resources; or eleven years of police law enforcement experience. Two years of this experience must have been managerial and included responsibility for implementation of program goals and objectives within established budgets and supervision or coordination of staff to achieve specific objectives; or an associate's degree and nine years of experience described above, at least two years of this experience must have been managerial and included responsibility for implementation of program goals and objectives within established budgets and supervision or coordination of staff to achieve specific objectives. Preferred Experience: Candidate has emergency response experience.

NOTE: A bachelor's degree can substitute for four years of the non-managerial experience. A master's or higher level degree can substitute for one year of non-managerial experience. Additional Comments Actual work schedule, duties and travel requirements may vary and will be discussed at the interview.

Transportation needs of this position require use of a state vehicle and adhering to the Department's Vehicle Policy. You must have and maintain a valid driver's license for this position. Travel may be required.

Overnight travel may be required. Weekends and holidays may be required. Must be available for emergency response.

Must be available to respond to after-hours emergencies. Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of work schedule, will be discussed at interview. We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including: Holiday & Paid Time Off Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System Shift & Geographic pay differentials Affordable Health Care options Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost NYS Deferred Compensation plan Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S

Savings Bonds And many more... For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State.

DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency. If you are a person with a disability and wish to request that a reasonable accommodation be provided for you to participate in a job interview, please email: equity@dec.ny.gov. Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e

H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT). Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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