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Summer Park Ranger Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Summer Park Ranger information

See Missouri salary details

$11

$19

$37

How much do summer park ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer park ranger in Missouri is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer park ranger?

Summer Park Rangers are seasonal employees who help manage, protect, and educate visitors about parks and natural resources during the busy summer months. Their duties typically include patrolling park grounds, assisting visitors, enforcing park rules, conducting educational programs, and helping with conservation efforts. They play a key role in maintaining safety and preserving the environment while ensuring that visitors have a positive experience in the park.

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

To thrive as a Summer Park Ranger, you need knowledge of natural resources, first aid/CPR certification, and typically a background in environmental science or related fields. Familiarity with GPS devices, radios, and park management software is often required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and public engagement skills help you effectively interact with visitors and handle emergencies. These skills ensure visitor safety, resource protection, and a positive park experience for all guests.

What are some common challenges faced by summer park rangers, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Summer Park Rangers often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds during peak seasons, addressing visitor questions or emergencies, and adapting to changing weather conditions. Being prepared means developing strong communication skills, staying knowledgeable about park rules and safety protocols, and maintaining physical fitness for tasks like patrolling trails or leading tours. Applicants can benefit from familiarizing themselves with the specific park’s unique environment and resources, as well as practicing effective conflict resolution and problem-solving techniques.

Can I be a summer park ranger with no experience?

Summer park ranger positions often require some knowledge of park operations, safety procedures, and customer service, but many entry-level roles do not require prior experience. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from outdoor skills or certifications such as CPR. Training is usually provided on the job to develop necessary skills.

Do summer park rangers work seasonally?

Yes, summer park rangers typically work seasonally during the warmer months when outdoor park activities and visitor attendance are highest. Their schedules often align with the park's peak season, and they may require certifications such as CPR or first aid. Employment duration usually coincides with the summer season, but some positions may extend into early fall depending on the park's needs.

Is it hard to get a job as a summer park ranger?

Getting a summer park ranger position can be competitive, as many applicants seek seasonal outdoor jobs. Candidates typically need relevant experience, good communication skills, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid. Applying early and demonstrating a passion for conservation and public service can improve chances of hiring.

What are the most commonly searched types of Park Ranger jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Park Ranger jobs in Missouri are:

Individual Placement - Interpretation Participant

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Student Conservation Association
Environmental Consulting Services • 201 - 500 employees

$650/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
Join a small team of dedicated National Park Service employees working to help visitors connect with the stories told at Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. This individual will spend their time working directly with visitors at the visitor center and though formal programming, as well as working with youth and other specialty tour groups.
The duties are approximately 80% indoors and 20% outdoors. We are seeking an individual who is looking to grow their interpretive skillset, learn more about operations at a small national park site, and gain knowledge on a variety of topics including Ulysses S. Grant, 19th century farming and domestic life at the site, slavery, Civil War, Reconstruction, and Civil Rights.
Dedicated interpretation training will be provided at the beginning of the summer, and the individual will be mentored to improve skills throughout the season, with the goal of learning to perform at the same standard expected of seasonal National Park Service employees.
Hosting Organization
Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site
Location
St. Louis, MO
Schedule
September 8, 2026 - January 15, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of the interpretation individual will be providing frontline visitor services for a variety of audiences. At the visitor center, the individual will greet and orient visitors, answer questions, assist children with Junior Ranger program, and help with sales of items in the park store. The individual will research, develop, and present interpretive programs on a variety of topics such as: Ulysses S. Grant, 19th century farming and domestic life at the site, slavery, Civil War, Reconstruction, and Civil Rights. They will develop an 8-10 minute introduction to the historic house, interpretive pop ups, and/or assisting with special group tours.
Additional duties will include assisting the park's Historian/Curator on evaluating and updating museum collections and archival inventories, accessioning/deaccessioning items to/from the park collections, and assisting with temporary exhibit design and setup. Limited opportunity will also be provided to assist the park's facility management program with cultural landscape and historic preservation operations.
Marginal Duties
The individual may also provide informal interpretation and assist with special events. There may be occasional opportunities to assist with organization of interpretive work spaces.
Required Qualifications
• Customer service experience.
• Willingness to speak in front of groups of people, including children.
• Ability to work with a team.
• Willingness to assist with cultural resource and facility management operations.
• The selectee will be required to pass a National Park Service background check.
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
Preferred Qualifications
• The ability to conduct research and write at a college level
• Public speaking experience
• Knowledge of 19th century American History
• Desire to pursue a career with the National Park Service or other public land agency.
• Interest in learning and assisting with duties related to resource and facility management.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Park housing is not available for this position. A car is necessary for transportation to the park as public transportation is not available. The park is in suburban St. Louis County. It is easily accessed by car from many neighborhoods in the metro area.
Compensation
  • Living Allowance: $650/week

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
  • Required

Additional Benefits
  • Interpretive Skills
  • AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.