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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 15, 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.

Can I be a summer park ranger with no experience?

Summer park ranger positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. However, having skills in customer service, outdoor activities, or environmental education can be beneficial. Some parks may prefer or require certifications such as CPR or first aid, but these are usually obtained after hiring.

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.

Do summer park rangers work seasonally?

Yes, summer park rangers typically work seasonally during the warmer months when outdoor park activities and visitor numbers are highest. Their schedules often align with the park's peak season, and they may work part-time or full-time hours during this period. Some positions may require certifications in first aid or CPR and involve outdoor tasks like trail maintenance and visitor education.

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.

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, such as outdoor skills or environmental knowledge, and may require certifications like CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and a passion for conservation can improve chances of hiring.

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.

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

Career Site

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$650/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 3 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

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.