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State Park Ranger Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Ranger

Manheim, PA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Ranger With a culture of recognition and reputation for excellence, ELS is the ideal organization ... state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for any ...

Ranger

Manheim, PA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

The Campground Ranger position may include walking or patrol of the grounds of the campground ... state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for any ...

Ranger

Manheim, PA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

The Campground Ranger position may include walking or patrol of the grounds of the campground ... state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for any ...

Ranger

Manheim, PA

$16 - $19.75/hr

ELS is hiring for the position of Ranger in Manheim, Pennsylvania. What you'll do: The Campground ... state and federal law. Your job will include: * Monitor the property with a keen eye for any ...

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State Park Ranger information

What is a state park ranger?

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.

Can I be a state park ranger with no experience?

State park ranger positions typically require some level of training or experience in areas such as law enforcement, conservation, or customer service. While prior experience is beneficial, many agencies offer training programs and may consider candidates with relevant skills or a willingness to learn. Certifications like CPR or first aid can also improve eligibility.

Is it easy to get a job as a State Park Ranger?

Becoming a State Park Ranger typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in natural resources or environmental science, and experience in outdoor or law enforcement roles. Competition can be moderate to high, and candidates often need to pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and sometimes obtain certifications like CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and knowledge of park regulations are also important for success in the hiring process.

How much are US park rangers paid?

U.S. park rangers typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced rangers or those in supervisory roles can earn higher salaries. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for training and advancement.

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?

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 cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for State Park Ranger jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most State Park Ranger job openings:
Infographic showing various State Park Ranger job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Park Ranger - Full-Time - REGION 1

Montgomery County (PA)

Norristown, PA

$21.01 - $28.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY A Park Ranger provides public information and assistance, public safety, resource protection, interpretive programming and assists in light maintenance at all division facilities. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provides visitor services which include education and information regarding various topics such as recreational opportunities and safety. Observes, collects and reports information that affects division facilities and users.

Educates the public about all division Rules and Regulations and enforces as needed. Organizes and performs recreational and interpretative programming. Responsible for crowd and traffic control within division facilities/events.

Performs individual routine patrols by vehicle, bicycle, foot, utility vehicle and boat in a variety of weather conditions. Assists all local, county, state and federal agencies as needed. Performs daily vehicle/equipment check and completes daily patrol logs, incident reports, attendance counts and maintenance request forms.

Assists in light maintenance including but not limited to trash pick-up and removal, restroom cleaning and snow removal. Assists with special events and projects in any region. Assists in natural resource restoration projects as directed.

Provides emergency aid as trained for all visitors and contacts local EMS as needed. May supervise volunteers and/or community service workers. Required to take training as assigned.

Other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

Experience in resource protection, visitor services, outdoor education and/or emergency services preferred. Must be eighteen (18) years of age. Minimum High School diploma or GED equivalent required.

Bachelor's Degree in Park Managemen/Administration, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences or related fields preferred; Must be able to read/write/speak English. Must project a pleasant and professional presence when interacting with the public. Must possess a valid Driver's License, a satisfactory driving record and the ability to maintain one throughout employment.

Successfully pass the PA State Police Criminal Record Check. Must possess good problem-solving ability and good judgment. Must be able to complete assigned work within deadlines.

Must be familiar with all pertinent PA Fish & Boat and PA Game Commission regulations as well as local ordinances. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands or arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and depth perception. Have the ability to climb, stoop, bend, reach, walk, sit or stand for long periods of time. Must be able to lift at least up to fifty (50) pounds (repeatedly).

Must be able to lift and use various pieces of hand-held equipment, up to twenty (20) pounds, for prolonged periods of time. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn when applicable. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

This position will be in the field. A Park Ranger may experience the following: Occasional exposure to chemicals, hazardous vegetation (poison ivy, etc.) and other hazards (animals, bees, etc.) when performing their responsibilities. Exposure lo inclement weather, extreme heal, cold, snow, ice and rain

Will work at various sites as assigned. Required to work weekends, evenings and holidays as needed. Be available for all emergencies outside of normal working hours.

Musi wear provided uniform. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.