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Wilderness Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Park Service

Facilities Manager

Houghton, MI · On-site +1

$106K - $138K/yr

... wilderness. The park offers superb recreational opportunities such as boating, kayaking, canoeing ... Ranger III. Government housing is furnished on the island at no cost to the employee during the ...

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How much do wilderness ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness ranger in the United States is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wilderness Ranger position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wilderness Ranger, you need strong outdoor survival skills, ecological knowledge, physical fitness, and usually a degree in natural resource management or a related field. Familiarity with GPS navigation, radio communication, first aid/CPR certification, and park management systems is often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and adaptability help rangers interact with visitors and handle unpredictable situations. These abilities are essential for effectively protecting natural resources, ensuring visitor safety, and promoting positive experiences in wilderness areas.

What does a Wilderness Ranger do?

A Wilderness Ranger is responsible for protecting and maintaining designated wilderness areas. They patrol trails, educate visitors on Leave No Trace principles, perform trail maintenance, and monitor environmental conditions. Rangers also enforce regulations to ensure the preservation of natural resources. Their work helps maintain the ecological integrity of wilderness areas while promoting safe and responsible recreation.

What are the most common challenges faced by Wilderness Rangers in the field?

Wilderness Rangers often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, remote terrain, and limited resources, which can make daily tasks physically and mentally demanding. Managing visitor safety, enforcing regulations, and responding to emergencies are regular challenges, especially in high-traffic or sensitive ecological areas. Collaboration with other rangers, law enforcement, scientists, and volunteers is frequent, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills. Successfully navigating these challenges is rewarding but demands flexibility, problem-solving abilities, and a genuine passion for conservation.

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Wilderness Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Ranger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,977 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Individual Placement - Education and Outreach Participant

Career Site

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$750/wk

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Gateway Arch National Park is seeking an SCA member to assist with presenting and facilitating activity-based, summer education programs at the park and partner sites in the greater St. Louis, MO area. Work includes assisting interpretative rangers and education specialists in offering 5-14 year olds outdoor summer camp activities to foster awareness and stewardship of park resources. Camp activities include, but are not limited to, hiking, fishing, canoeing, museum exploration, arts & crafts, and archery. The intern will receive training and mentoring before, during and after five week-long sessions in partnership with the Gateway Region YMCA and camp sessions in partnership with a local school district.

Location

St. Louis, MO

Schedule

September 21, 2026 - November 13, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The individual will participate in and help to facilitate team-building activities that will enhance social and leadership skills in camp participants; activities related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) that will improve understanding of the environment; and help students learn more about and participate in the Junior Ranger program.

Marginal Duties

Set-up and break down of activities; learning about education-related jobs, collaborating with peers and mentors to develop activities; general office work related to inventory, supply repair and replacement; and developing a strong work ethic.

Required Qualifications

  • Interest in working outdoors
  • Willingness to work with children 5-14 years old

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

Experience working with students 5-14 years old in an outdoor setting.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

No living accommodations are available at the park. The park will assist the individual to find housing, possibly at a nearby university in their dorm.

Compensation

  • Living Allowance: $750/week
  • Relocation Allowance: $1,100 (paid once with first paycheck)

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits

  • First Aid/CPR
  • Interpretive Skills
  • Wilderness First Aid Training
  • 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.

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