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Summer Ranger Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Summer Ranger information

See Florida salary details

$8

$15

$29

How much do summer ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer ranger in Florida is $15.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Summer Rangers face during the season, and how are they supported in overcoming them?

Summer Rangers often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds during peak park visitation, dealing with variable weather conditions, and responding to minor medical or safety incidents. To help overcome these challenges, rangers typically receive comprehensive training in first aid, conflict resolution, and park regulations before the season starts. They also work closely with experienced rangers and park supervisors, allowing for teamwork and on-the-job learning. Regular briefings and access to communication tools further ensure that Summer Rangers have the support needed to handle demanding situations effectively.

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

To thrive as a Summer Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental conservation, outdoor safety, and often a background in natural sciences or related fields. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and basic first aid certification are commonly required. Strong communication, public engagement, and problem-solving skills help in educating visitors and handling diverse situations in the field. These skills ensure the effective protection of natural resources, visitor safety, and positive public interactions in park environments.

What is the difference between Summer Ranger vs Park Guide?

AspectSummer RangerPark Guide
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic outdoor skillsHigh school diploma, knowledge of park history
Work EnvironmentOutdoor parks, conservation areasVisitor centers, outdoor park areas
Employer & Industry UsageNational/state parks, outdoor recreationNational/state parks, tourism
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Summer Rangers and Park Guides both work in outdoor park settings, often during peak seasons. Summer Rangers focus on conservation, maintenance, and educational programs, while Park Guides primarily lead tours and provide visitor information. Both roles require outdoor skills and knowledge of parks, but Summer Rangers typically have more responsibilities related to conservation efforts, whereas Park Guides emphasize visitor engagement. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in outdoor recreation and park management.

What are summer rangers?

Summer rangers are seasonal employees who work in parks, forests, or nature reserves during the summer months. Their duties often include providing information to visitors, assisting with conservation efforts, maintaining trails and facilities, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the public. Summer rangers may also lead educational programs, monitor wildlife, and help enforce park regulations. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and engaging with the public, and it often provides valuable experience for those interested in environmental or conservation careers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ranger jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Ranger jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Summer Ranger jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Summer Ranger job openings:
Outdoor and Adventure Program Manager

Outdoor and Adventure Program Manager

Girl Scouts of West Central Florida

Palm Harbor, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Title: Outdoor and Adventure Program Manager - Camp Wai Lani
Reports to: Director of Outdoor Programs
Supervises: Challenge Course Facilitators, Marine Facilitators, Summer Camp Staff, Outdoor Program Facilitators, Outdoor Program Volunteers
Position: Full-time, Salaried
Location: Camp Wai Lani, Palm Harbor, FL
JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES
The Outdoor and Adventure Program Manager (OAPM) for Camp Wai Lani is responsible for developing, executing, supervising, and providing oversight of and customer service to troop camping, encampment, summer resident & day camp experiences, and other programs & events held at their assigned GSWCF camp property. Program areas unique to Camp Wai Lani include: High Challenge Course with zip line, Marine Lab and Waterfront access. The OAPM is also responsible for developing community relationships to expand offerings and clientele through community and corporate partners. The OAPM works in close collaboration with the Camp Ranger at the camp to ensure girls, volunteers, staff, and other guests have a successful experience at GSWCF camps. The OAPM performs assigned duties for the purpose of advancing GSWCF's strategic goals including serving and retaining current girl members, extending the Girl Scout brand to un-served and underserved populations, and ensuring achievement of sustainable revenue generation. This is a full-time position, exempt with primary workdays being Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Monday through Thursday flexible.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Program Quality and Growth
  • Develop and coordinate the execution of outdoor programming including but not limited to; troop camping, encampments, challenge course, environmental education, target sports, and summer camp.
  • Recruit, train and evaluate staff and volunteers to ensure progressive skill development.
  • Manage customer experiences on property including pre-arrival confirmations, check in/out, and ensure volunteer facilitator qualifications.
  • Provide consultative services to volunteers and staff planning camp experiences prior to their experience and ensures necessary staffing for their experience.
  • In collaboration with the Adult Learning Manager and other OPM's, ensure safe, consistent, and quality camping experiences through volunteer training programs and resources.

Operational Management and Oversight
  • Ensure the maintenance and required inspections of all GSWCF challenge course equipment and facilities are carried out as needed with appropriate record keeping.
  • Ensure safety and quality of challenge course and general program facilitators through delivery and recording of routine in-service trainings for new and current facilitators.
  • Ensure safety and risk management with waterfront activities including kayaking, SUP, etc. in regards to small craft weather advisory. In collaboration with Volunteer Development, recruit lifeguards and waterfront/ marine lab facilitators for year round programming.
  • Ensure safety and risk management standards and practices are in place for outdoor programs, and comply with ACA Standards, Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints, Volunteer Essentials, GSWCF Personnel Policies and federal, state and local regulations to mitigate risk & safeguard the health, safety and general well-being of all members.
  • Measure and assess program quality and GSUSA national outcomes achievement through the implementation and review of GSUSA and GSWCF developed quality and outcome measures.
  • Develop and manage execution of relevant departmental annual operating budgets and goals to include utilization of customer and program data, researching trends, proposing strategies, for the achievement of financial and girl participation goals through customer-centric program experiences.
  • Recruits, manages, and ensures deliverables of volunteers, who serve as a resource for outdoor programs and properties.
  • Supervise and develop skills of seasonal and camp-related program staff and volunteers.

Administrative Functions
  • Manage the preparation and organization of summer staff and camp accreditation for assigned property.
  • Works closely with Human Resources on the recruitment, selection, on-boarding, evaluation, and release of temporary and seasonal camp staff and facilitators.
  • Proactively manage, repair, and replace as needed program equipment and supplies.
  • Review and resolve customer inquiries received through organization's CRM (Salesforce).
  • Manage, track, and control payroll expenditures for assigned lines of business.
  • Assist in management of outdoor program or camp property social media channels.
  • Comply with financial accountabilities associated with purchases and timely submission of receipts and credit card statements.

General Expectations
  • Strictly adhere to the letter and spirit of all aforementioned policies and practices and promptly report any known or alleged infractions.
  • Keep supervisor informed on status and progress of work assigned.
  • Perform special assignments as directed by the supervisor and/or management.
  • Actively participates in council conferences and staff meetings.
  • Provides direct service to girls when volunteers/facilitators are not available.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in recreation, outdoor education, youth development, environmental science or related field preferred.
  • 3+ years of youth program/camp administration experience including supervision of staff & volunteer teams of 20 or more individuals preferred.
  • Additional event planning experience preferred.
  • Past challenge course management experience desired.
  • Has, or ability to obtain and maintain, Association of Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) level 1 or 2 certification.
  • Has or ability to obtain and maintain current certifications in CPR and First Aid.
  • Previous management of marine programs and/or facilities preferred.
  • Additional certifications in archery, lifeguarding, and food service management by nationally recognized providers desired.

Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to function as onsite Camp Director of a summer resident camp for up to 12 weeks during summer months, including residing onsite overnight while campers are present .
  • Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple projects while managing conflicting priorities and deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills with the ability to identify and leverage relevant data to use in planning and decision-making..
  • Ability to understand, adapt to and interact with diverse people, teams, perspectives and cultures.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent presentation and public speaking skills.
  • Comfortable working remotely, using video conferencing and collaboration tools including Zoom and Microsoft Teams
  • Proficient in using email, internet, and other PC-based applications including Microsoft Office suite with the ability to learn and adapt to new technology.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to climb, handle or carry challenge course equipment (including but not limited to poles, towers, cargo nets).
  • Ability to lift 50-75 lbs with or without assistance.
  • Ability to perform work exerting up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or 20lbs. of force frequently and 10lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
  • Prolonged standing, some bending, stooping, walking long distances, hiking, climbing, and stretching
  • Hand eye-coordination and manual dexterity to utilize camp equipment.
  • Ability to live in a camp setting and work extended hours with daily exposure to sun, heat, and animals such as insects, snakes, bats, and horses, etc.

Other Requirements
  • Able to maintain a flexible work schedule, including overnights, most weekends, and frequent evenings.
  • Must have access to an automobile for travel within the jurisdiction, and proof of insurance and a safe driving record
  • Must be a minimum of 25 years of age.
  • Knowledge and acceptance of beliefs and principles of the Girl Scout movement; willing to register as a member of Girl Scouts of the USA .

Annualized starting rate of pay: $45,000; $46,000 if able to conduct business in English and Spanish.
GSWCF is an equal opportunity employer.