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State Park Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Vista, CA

$50K - $61K/yr

The Park Ranger is expected to resolve most problems confronted by applying their professional ... Basic law enforcement and environmental interpretation principles and pertinent local and state ...

Park Ranger

Vista, CA · On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

The Park Ranger is expected to resolve most problems confronted by applying their professional ... Basic law enforcement and environmental interpretation principles and pertinent local and state ...

Park Ranger/Naturalist

Fremont, CA · On-site

$80K - $97K/yr

Park Ranger/Naturalist VIEW OUR RECRUITMENT BROCHURE The Department The Community Services ... State and local laws related to park operations and management; water and/or small craft safety ...

Park Ranger

Westminster, CA · On-site

$69K - $98K/yr

Positions at this level receive training on Penal Code 832, state, county and city laws, and are ... The objective of a Park Ranger is to gain compliance by being visible and dealing with the public ...

COUNTY PARK RANGER II

Bradley, CA

$19 - $23.50/hr

Enforce park, county and state codes, rules and regulations Read, interpret and explain rules and ... Ranger I with Monterey County; OR Experience: One (1) year of experience performing a variety of ...

Park Ranger

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$82K - $104K/yr

T. Basic Academy Or: 2. Current enrollment in a State of California P.O.S.T. Basic Academy ... Wear and maintain a designated Park Ranger uniform; including department issued safety equipment ...

T. Basic Academy Or: 2. Current enrollment in a State of California P.O.S.T. Basic Academy ... Park Ranger uniform; including department issued safety equipment such as a duty/gun belt ...

Park Ranger Assistant

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$37K - $45K/yr

... the Park Ranger Assistant provides assistance and support services to the County Regional Parks ... state laws. The County shall not consider for employment any candidate who has been convicted of a ...

... the Park Ranger Assistant provides assistance and support services to the County Regional Parks ... state laws. The County shall not consider for employment any candidate who has been convicted of a ...

... Park Ranger Recruit participates in a basic law enforcement training program including a State of ... S. accredited high school diplomas, GED tests, equivalency tests approved by the State Department ...

... Park Ranger Recruit participates in a basic law enforcement training program including a State of ... S accredited high school diplomas, GED tests, equivalency tests approved by the State Department of ...

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State Park Ranger information

See California salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do state park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for state park ranger in California is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are State Park Rangers?

State Park Rangers are professionals responsible for protecting and managing state parks and natural resources. Their duties often include enforcing park rules, educating visitors, ensuring public safety, conducting search and rescue operations, maintaining park facilities, and protecting wildlife and habitats. They may also lead tours, provide information about the park's history and ecology, and respond to emergencies. State Park Rangers play a vital role in preserving natural and cultural resources while making parks enjoyable and safe for visitors.

What is the difference between State Park Ranger vs Forest Ranger?

AspectState Park RangerForest Ranger
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, sometimes required certificationsHigh school diploma or GED, often with forestry or environmental certifications
Work EnvironmentState parks, recreational areas, visitor centersForests, national forests, wilderness areas
Employer & IndustryState government agencies managing parksFederal or state agencies managing forests and public lands
Job FocusVisitor safety, park maintenance, educational programsForest conservation, fire prevention, resource management

While both roles involve outdoor work and public interaction, State Park Rangers primarily focus on managing state parks and ensuring visitor safety, whereas Forest Rangers concentrate on forest conservation and resource management in forested areas. The credentials and work environments overlap, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the setting.

What are some common challenges faced by State Park Rangers during peak visitor seasons?

During peak visitor seasons, State Park Rangers often manage increased foot traffic, ensuring visitor safety while protecting natural resources. This can involve crowd control, educating the public about park rules, responding to emergencies, and enforcing regulations. Rangers must balance hospitality with enforcement, all while working long hours outdoors and sometimes dealing with unpredictable weather. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential to handle conflicts and maintain a positive park experience for everyone.

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

To thrive as a State Park Ranger, you need knowledge of natural resource management, law enforcement, and emergency response, usually supported by a degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, two-way radios, and certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and public relations skills set outstanding rangers apart. These skills ensure visitor safety, resource protection, and positive public engagement within the park environment.
What are popular job titles related to State Park Ranger jobs in California? For State Park Ranger jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching State Park Ranger jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for State Park Ranger jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for State Park Ranger jobs? Cities in California with the most State Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various State Park Ranger job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Park Ranger

$50K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Under general supervision, a Park Ranger supervises general park usage at the City's parks; and performs related work as required. The Park Ranger is expected to resolve most problems confronted by applying their professional judgment and precedent, referring only those which involve a significant deviation in policy or new procedures, to their supervisor or Law Enforcement. The Park Ranger may supervise and monitor the work of temporary part-time park rangers.

Park Rangers typically work evening and weekend hours. Examples of Essential Functions EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Supervises general park usage at the City's parks; supervises and monitors work of temporary part-time rangers; enforces park ordinances and maintains order in the parks; answers questions and handles complaints from the public; issues recreation equipment, performs routine maintenance tasks and oversees department activities on location; checks and insures facilities and equipment are safe, clean and ready for public usage; monitors park usage; plans and coordinates training workshops; attends public meetings as assigned; some report writing involved and performs other related work as required Minimum Qualifications Any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: A typical qualifying entrance background would be an Associates of Arts degree and one year experience in recreation, public relations or related duties desired.

Possession of the P.C. 832 is highly desirable. KNOWLEDGE OF: Basic law enforcement and environmental interpretation principles and pertinent local and state regulations and codes

ABILITY TO: Communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with public and fellow staff and operate a City vehicle observing safe driving practices. LICENSE REQUIRED & CERTIFICATION Requires a valid California Class C driver's license to be secured by date of appointment and maintained as a condition of continued City employment. Certification in CPR and safety and first aid will be required within 30 days after employment.

Completion of a P.C.832 course required within the first year of employment. Other Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS: Requires the use of City vehicle. Requires extensive foot patrol over a variety of terrains, willingness to comply with rules and regulations governing wearing attire

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: A City application form and supplemental questionnaire MUST be submitted and received online by the closing date. Please apply online at www.vista.gov. All other employment inquiries can be directed to the City of Vista, Human Resources Department, Telephone: (760) 726-1340

SELECTION PROCESS: Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience for the position.

Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting.

The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice. We welcome and celebrate diversity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace. All qualified candidates and veterans are welcome to apply.

*SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Recruitment Closes - Sunday, August 9th, 2026 Virtual Interview Panel (Microsoft Teams) - Week of August 17th *Please note, all dates and/or timeframes are subject to change.