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River Ranger Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

River Ranger information

What is a river ranger?

A River Ranger is responsible for protecting and maintaining rivers, waterways, and surrounding environments. Their duties often include patrolling waterways, ensuring public safety, enforcing regulations, and educating visitors about conservation. They may also assist in rescue operations, maintain river access points, and monitor wildlife. River Rangers typically work for government agencies, parks, or conservation organizations.

What does a river ranger do?

A typical day for a River Ranger involves patrolling riverbanks and waterways to ensure public safety, inspecting for environmental hazards, educating visitors about conservation, and sometimes assisting in rescue operations. River Rangers may conduct water quality testing, monitor wildlife, enforce regulations, and report any incidents or violations. The role often requires collaboration with local law enforcement, environmental agencies, and community organizations. Work is usually outdoors and can involve both independent assignments and teamwork, providing a balance of fieldwork and public interaction.

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

To succeed as a River Ranger, you typically need knowledge of environmental science, waterway management, and outdoor safety, often supported by certifications in first aid, CPR, and sometimes law enforcement or boating. Familiarity with GPS mapping tools, data collection devices, and water quality testing kits is frequently required. Outstanding communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution skills help River Rangers work effectively with the public, fellow rangers, and local authorities. These competencies are crucial for protecting waterways, ensuring public safety, and fostering positive relationships within the community.

Infographic showing various River Ranger job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Service Ranger - Black River Reservation

Lorain County Metropolitan Park District

Elyria, OH • On-site

$23.27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

Renders aid, assistance, and information services to park visitors. Protects and preserves the land and facilities of the Park District. Enforces Park District rules and regulations and the laws of the State of Ohio. Performs a variety of semi-skilled and unskilled labor jobs in maintenance and related duties as assigned.


RATE OF PAY: $23.27 per hour.Open Until Filled.

Requirements

Valid Ohio Peace Officer Training certification and valid Ohio driver's license. Education and work experience in the field of natural resources is preferred. One year's experience in law enforcement (park-related experience preferred) or equivalent. Applicants must be 21 years of age and are subject to an extensive background investigation. Applicants must be available to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends.


Must possess a valid Ohio driver's license. New employees must satisfactorily complete a background check. Lorain County Metropolitan Park District policy prohibits hiring new employees who are tobacco users.


Lorain County Metro Parks is an equal-opportunity employer.