1

Wildlife Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter)

Gonzales, TX ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off ... Job Classification Service Military Specialty Park Ranger I-V Army 11B, 11C, 11A Park Ranger I-V ...

OPS PARK RANGER - 37971100 Pay Plan: Temp Position Number: 37971100 Salary: AGENCY TO UPDATE ... Implements vegetation and wildlife management plans, maintains optimum species control via natural ...

Park Ranger

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$36K/yr

The Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department is actively seeking two (2) Park Ranger ... Coordinates assistance for injured wildlife. * Prepares forms and reports on a wide range of ...

PARK RANGER - 37001154 1 Position Number: 37001154 Salary: $2,896.67 month/$34,760.00 annual ... Implements vegetation and wildlife management plans, maintains optimum species control via natural ...

Park Ranger

Ogden, IA ยท On-site

$48K - $55K/yr

PARK RANGER Position Description Position Detail: Park Ranger, full-time, Boone County Employee ... Knowledge of native trees, shrubs, flowers, birds and other wildlife common to Boone County

New

PARK RANGER

Lake Village, AR ยท On-site

$55K - $82K/yr

Park Ranger Class Code: SPL03P Pay Grade: LES03 Salary Range: $55,930 - $82,776 Job Summary The ... Respond to emergencies such as medical events, accidents, lost persons, wildlife encounters, or ...

PARK RANGER - 37001154 1 Position Number: 37001154 Salary: $2,896.67 month/$34,760.00 annual ... Implements vegetation and wildlife management plans, maintains optimum species control via natural ...

Implements vegetation and wildlife management plans; maintains optimum species control via natural ... ranger academy Upon employment, successfully meet position specific DRP Burn Standards for ...

Implements vegetation and wildlife management plans; maintains optimum species control via natural ... ranger academy Upon employment, successfully meet position specific DRP Burn Standards for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Wildlife Ranger information

See salary details

$25K

$64.9K

$127K

How much do wildlife ranger jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife ranger in the United States is $64,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Wildlife Rangers?

Wildlife Rangers are professionals responsible for protecting wildlife, habitats, and natural resources in parks, reserves, and conservation areas. They patrol designated areas to prevent poaching, enforce conservation laws, monitor animal populations, and assist with habitat restoration projects. Wildlife Rangers may also educate the public about conservation, conduct research, and respond to emergencies involving wildlife. Their work is crucial in preserving biodiversity and ensuring the safety of both animals and visitors in natural areas.

What are some of the unique challenges Wildlife Rangers face in their daily work, and how do they typically address them?

Wildlife Rangers frequently encounter challenges such as patrolling vast and remote areas, navigating difficult terrain, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. They also face the responsibility of monitoring wildlife populations, preventing poaching, and engaging with local communities to promote conservation efforts. To address these challenges, rangers rely on teamwork, regular training in fieldcraft and first aid, and the use of modern technology like GPS and drones. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential for responding to emergencies and collaborating effectively with colleagues and partner organizations.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Ranger, you need knowledge of conservation practices, wildlife management, and often a background in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and sometimes certifications in first aid or law enforcement are typically required. Strong observational skills, resilience, and effective communication are essential soft skills for engaging with the public and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualities enable Wildlife Rangers to protect natural habitats, ensure visitor safety, and uphold conservation laws.

What is the difference between Wildlife Ranger vs Conservation Officer?

AspectWildlife RangerConservation Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in wildlife management or first aidSimilar credentials; often requires environmental science or related degrees
Work EnvironmentNational parks, wildlife reserves, outdoor settingsWildlife agencies, environmental organizations, government agencies
Primary DutiesPatrols, habitat protection, enforcing park rulesPolicy implementation, habitat conservation, public education

Wildlife Rangers focus on patrolling and protecting wildlife in outdoor settings, while Conservation Officers often work in broader environmental roles, including policy and education. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in wildlife preservation, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

More about Wildlife Ranger jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildlife Ranger jobs? Cities with the most Wildlife Ranger job openings:
What states have the most Wildlife Ranger jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildlife Ranger jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wildlife Ranger job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 3% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,945 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter)

TPWD - Park Ranger I (Park Interpreter)

CAPPS

Gonzales, TX โ€ข On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description
TPWD MISSION
To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
EXCELLENT BENEFITS:
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a variety of benefits for employees such as generous paid time off, group insurance, retirement and pension, and frequent training and staff development opportunities. Other benefits include longevity pay, merit pay, deferred compensation, flexible benefit plans, 401K/457 retirement plans, direct deposit, staggered work hours, Employee Assistance Program and a Return-to-Work Program. For new employees or rehires, health insurance is available on the 1st of the following month after a 60-day waiting period. Click HERE to view our Benefits page.
PLEASE NOTE:
All applications must contain complete job histories in the WORK HISTORY SECTION to include:
  • Job Title
  • Dates of employment (month/year)
  • Name of Employer, Name of Supervisor Description of duties performed
  • Volunteer experience credit is counted toward any experience requirement. Please list those experiences to receive credit towards meeting the minimum requirements.
  • Omission of data can be the basis for disqualification; you may state 'unknown' for any incomplete fields.
  • College Transcripts are required at the time of interview (unless otherwise noted on the posting) if education is used to meet the minimum requirements of the job posting. A copy of a college transcript(s) issued from the registrar must be provided if you are selected for an interview.
  • Applications with "See attached" or "See resume" will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.
  • Resumes are encouraged as attachments but will not be used to determine eligibility
  • Work In Texas (WIT) Applications: WIT applicants are required to complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. To complete the supplemental questions, login to CAPPS Recruit.

IF THIS INFORMATION IS NOT SUBMITTED, YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE CONSIDERED INCOMPLETE.
MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY CODES:
Job Classification
Service
Military Specialty
Park Ranger I-V
Army
11B, 11C, 11A
Park Ranger I-V
Navy
RS, SN, YN, YNS
Park Ranger I-V
Coast Guard
MST, MSSR
Park Ranger I-V
Marine Corps
0300, 0365, 0369
Park Ranger I-V
Air Force
9T000
Park Ranger I-V
Space Force
No Military Crosswalk. Qualified veterans are encouraged to apply.
*More information on military occupational specialty codes can be found below:
https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/
https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MilitaryCrosswalkGuide.pdf
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE:
If you choose to claim military employment preference as outlined by the State of Texas, you must attach the required documentation referenced below at the time your application is submitted. If you have questions regarding this requirement, please visit our Military Employment Reference page at https://tpwd.texas.gov/jobs/veterans/.
Required forms that will need to be attached with application for Military Employment Preference:
  • Veteran- DD214 showing honorable discharge or Statement of Service (only for transitioning service members who have not reached their date of separation).
  • Surviving spouse of a veteran who has not remarried- Marriage Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.
  • Orphan of a veteran killed while on active duty- Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300 or appropriate documentation.
  • Spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on Active Duty- Marriage Certificate and copy of spouses active-duty military orders.
  • Spouse of a veteran with disability and is the primary income for household- Marriage Certificate, Veterans DD214, and VA Benefits Summary Letter showing disability rating.

Documentation must be attached to the application before military preference can be granted.
HIRING CONTACT: Robert Kaspar, (830) 203-8922, Email: robert.kaspar@tpwd.texas.gov
PHYSICAL WORK ADDRESS: Palmetto State Park, 78 Park Rd. 11 Gonzales, TX 78629
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Under the direction of the Park Superintendent, this position performs routine (journey-level) state park operations work. Responsible for coordinating with the Park Management for planning and conducting interpretive programs for Palmetto State Park. Is responsible for assisting with the research, development, and implementation of interpretive programs, including but not limited to: exhibits, tours, school programs, guided walks, special events, training workshops, and seminars based on the interpretive purposes of Palmetto State Park and its mission. Assists with the volunteer program. Prepares reports, maintains administrative and interpretive files, and assists with visitors' service needs, including, revenue collection, entrance fee, store sales, and periodic grounds and facility maintenance. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs additional duties as assigned. Complies with all Agency, Division and Branch rules, regulations and procedures.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.
Experience:
No experience required.
Licensure:
Must possess a valid State driver's license.
NOTE: Retention of position contingent on obtaining and maintaining required license.
ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS:
Education:
One year of experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs may substitute for 30 hours of the required education, with a maximum substitution of 120 semester hours.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Park Administration, Recreation and Parks, Wildlife/Fisheries Science, Natural and/or Cultural Resources Conservation, Range Management, Forestry, Biology, Anthropology/Archeology, History, or closely related field.
Experience:
Experience in customer service.
Experience in park operations.
Experience in interpretation or conducting educational programs.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of interpretive techniques and principles.
Knowledge of special event planning and implementation.
Knowledge of Texas flora and fauna.
Knowledge of environmental education programs.
Knowledge of general maintenance techniques.
Knowledge of social media platforms.
Knowledge of the principles of park administration.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of natural and cultural resources management.
Knowledge of methods of interpretation and education.
Knowledge of standard financial and business management principles.
Skill in using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook.
Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
Skill in effective interpretive techniques, program preparation, and presentations.
Skill in planning, organizing, and implementing public presentations and guided tours for all age groups.
Skill in completing reports and providing accurate information.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts.
Skill in providing quality customer service in a courteous and professional manner.
Skill in facilitating meetings.
Skill in general maintenance techniques.
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Ability to accurately handle cash and account for revenue collected.
Ability to issue permits.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Ability to conduct work activities in accordance with TPWD safety program.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Required to work in a public park with overnight camping and day use.
Required to work 40 hours per week, including various schedules with hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and days off other than Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Required to operate a tram or vehicle with less than 15 passengers.
Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.
Required to operate a State vehicle.
Required to travel 5% with possible overnight stays.
Must conform to TPWD dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.
Non-smoking environment in State buildings and vehicles.
TPWD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

CAPPS logo

About CAPPS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A statewide software solution developed by the Texas Department of Information Resources, CAPPS consolidates financial management, HR, and payroll operations for state agencies. Designed as a unified enterprise resource system, CAPPS replaced legacy tools in the early 2000s with a scalable, integrated platform tailored to agencies of varied size and complexity.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US