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State Park Ranger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PART-TIME SECURITY GUARD

Carson, CA

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

... park ranger, firefighter, or Police student worker (with the City of Los Angeles), or (Military ... Must be at least 21 years old or the minimum age required by the State * Must be a U.S. Citizen or ...

YOUTH AID

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$18.26/hr

... State Park Peace Officer Supervisor (Ranger), the Youth Aide will assist the Junior Lifeguard Program Instructor during the operating hours of the Junior Lifeguard Program. The Youth Aid will work ...

PART-TIME SECURITY GUARD

Carson, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

... park ranger, firefighter, or Police student worker (with the City of Los Angeles), or (Military ... Must be at least 21 years old or the minimum age required by the State * Must be a U.S. Citizen or ...

PART-TIME SECURITY GUARD

Los Angeles, CA

$17.25 - $21/hr

... park ranger, firefighter, or Police student worker (with the City of Los Angeles), or (Military ... Must be at least 21 years old or the minimum age required by the State * Must be a U.S. Citizen or ...

PART-TIME SECURITY GUARD

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

... park ranger, firefighter, or Police student worker (with the City of Los Angeles), or (Military ... Must be at least 21 years old or the minimum age required by the State * Must be a U.S. Citizen or ...

Senior Lifeguard

San Rafael, CA

$16 - $20.25/hr

... Park Ranger; ensuring that the proper level of first aid supplies are available on site; enforcing ... All County of Marin employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law ...

Senior Lifeguard

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$28.98 - $31.94/hr

... Park Ranger; ensuring that the proper level of first aid supplies are available on site; enforcing ... All County of Marin employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law ...

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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 Jun 16, 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 16% As Needed, 40% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,414 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Returners - Jobs with the Lake Gregory Company

Lake Gregory Company

Crestline, CA

$16.90/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description



Lake Gregory Community Recreation Companyprovides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.


This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.


The Lake Gregory Community Recreation Company is now taking applications for several positions. These jobs may be part-time year round or seasonal full time.


We are seeking applications for:


Lifeguards

Food Service

Beach Crew

Park Ranger

Special Events Crew


If you are interested please fill out our application to let us know of your interest.