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Summer Ranger Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Part-time Park Ranger

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Park Ranger Under general supervision, provide a safe and secure environment for visitors to City ... Exposure to extreme temperatures; heat and humidity working outside for long periods in the summer ...

Summer Ranger information

See Ohio salary details

$11

$19

$37

How much do summer ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer ranger in Ohio is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Ranger jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Ranger jobs in Ohio are:
Park Ranger (part-time) - Atwood

$23 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Application Deadline: Posted until filled. 
Salary Range: $23.00 - $27.00 per hour
Location: Atwood Park
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Classification: Variable 
Safety Sensitive: Yes

Note: This position is classified as a variable hours position. This means that if hired, the employee would remain in an active status with MWCD throughout the year, but the working hours will vary. If you have questions about our variable hour classification, please call the MWCD Human Resources department at 330-556-4811.  

Park and Lake Rangers ensure the safety of the park and lake guests through routine patrol and enforcement activities. A ranger should expect to spend a considerable amount of time performing public relations activities and public education. Rangers work very closely with the park registration in assisting park guests with a variety of customer-related services. A current Ohio Peace Officer's Training Academy (OPOTA) certification is required. 

Summary of Responsibilities

Ensures the safety of park and lake guests and the security of park and lake property through routine patrol and enforcement activities. A Park/Lake Ranger will spend considerable time performing public relations activities and public education, ensuring excellent customer service is provided to all MWCD guests.

Responds to concerns, complaints, and disturbances on water and land. Enforces the provisions of the Ohio Revised Code, safe boating laws, MWCD rules and regulations, as well as Campground Rules and Guidelines.

Practices standard MWCD safety procedures in performing job duties and assists other MWCD personnel as required.

Essential Functions include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

Patrols MWCD property, investigates incidents and complaints, issues warnings, citations, and makes arrests. Performs boating safety inspections, executes bench warrants and works with various law enforcement agencies in investigative and preventative measures. Enforces state laws as well as the Conservancy District rules and regulations. Renders assistance to the public by providing information pertinent to MWCD facilities, safety requirements, boater education, and points of interest in the area. 

Administers first aid and rescue as required.

Maintains required ranger logs, vehicle/equipment checks, and supplies inventory. Reports mechanical and or safety issues to appropriate supervisor.

Appropriately utilizes warnings, citations, and arrests to enforce state laws as well as MWCD rules. Compiles law enforcement related statistics, keeps records, and prepares reports of law enforcement related activities.

While working as Park Ranger, assists park guests with finding a campsite, monitors campsites and reservations, completes daily camp lot occupied checks, and ensures Campground Rules and Guidelines are being followed.

Notifies appropriate manager of any safety concerns realized while performing job duties.

Notifies appropriate manager of any law enforcement / customer issues that require further attention.

Skills and Abilities

Education:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

Experience in park operations, record keeping, office machines, computers and radio communication systems are preferred. Strong skills in working with people and the public in general are required.

Computer Skills:

Basic computer skills required

Certifications & Licenses:

Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA - Basic Police Academy Training Course) certification is required. The employee will be required to successfully pass a firearms qualification course as outlined by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission. The employee will be required to obtain or renew a CPR/first aid certification. Driver’s license valid in the state of Ohio.

Abilities:

Ability to maintain confidential information. Good communication skills and the ability to work well with the public are required.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Other Requirements, Expectations, or Unusual Conditions

This position requires weekend, evening and holiday work. Overtime work is required as necessary. Working extra hours during spring and summer months is required, with some workdays exceeding 10 hours. Involvement in local community organizations and/or activities is expected. For Lake Rangers, an Ohio’s Boater Education Card is required and must be able to swim, tread water, and be comfortable working on and around the water.