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Scientists In Parks Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$24.31 - $28.53/hr

... provides support in maintaining safe, clean, and inviting parks for visitors consistent with ... science/natural resources, ranger services. Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

... in managing, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data to support recreation and parks, planning ... Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Urban Planning, Environmental Science, or a related field from ...

GIS Analyst III

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... in managing, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data to support recreation and parks, planning ... Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, Urban Planning, Environmental Science, or a related field from ...

... science museum in the US in 2020, 2021, and 2022!), check out art galleries, walk around the zoo ... parks. To learn more about our company and our job opportunities, visit us at: To learn more about ...

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Showing results 1-20

Scientists In Parks information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$35.7K

$87.9K

$154.5K

How much do scientists in parks jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientists in parks in Columbus, OH is $87,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $96,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do national parks hire geologists?

Scientists in parks, including geologists, are often employed by federal agencies such as the National Park Service to conduct geological surveys, assess landforms, and support conservation efforts. Geologists working in parks typically need relevant degrees, field experience, and may use tools like GIS and mapping software. These roles can involve fieldwork, research, and collaboration with other environmental specialists.

What are Scientists in Parks?

Scientists in Parks (SIP) is a program that places early career professionals, students, and recent graduates in temporary positions within the National Park Service. Participants work on natural resource management, research, and science-based projects in national parks across the United States. The program provides hands-on experience and training in fields such as ecology, geology, environmental science, and cultural resource management. SIP positions are designed to support park needs while offering valuable career development opportunities for aspiring scientists.

Do national parks hire environmental scientists?

Yes, national parks often employ environmental scientists to conduct research, monitor ecosystems, and support conservation efforts. These roles typically require knowledge of ecology, data collection skills, and sometimes specialized certifications, with work often conducted outdoors in natural settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scientists In Parks participant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientists In Parks participant, you typically need a background in natural sciences or environmental studies, with relevant coursework or a degree in biology, ecology, geology, or a similar field. Familiarity with field research tools, GIS mapping software, data collection methods, and sometimes certifications like Wilderness First Aid are important. Strong observational skills, adaptability, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in diverse outdoor settings and collaborative projects. These skills ensure accurate scientific contributions, safety, and meaningful engagement with park resource management and public outreach.

How do Scientists in Parks typically collaborate with National Park Service staff and other stakeholders during their projects?

Scientists in Parks usually work closely with National Park Service (NPS) staff, including park rangers, resource managers, and interpretive teams, to ensure their research aligns with park management goals. They may also coordinate with external partners such as universities, community organizations, and volunteers. Regular meetings, fieldwork, and presentations are common ways these collaborations happen, fostering a team-oriented environment and promoting knowledge sharing. This collaborative structure not only enhances research outcomes but also provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

What do scientists do in national parks?

Scientists in parks conduct research to monitor and understand ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources. They collect data through fieldwork, use tools like GPS and sampling equipment, and often collaborate with park staff to inform conservation efforts and park management decisions.

What is the highest paying national park job?

In the context of scientists working in parks, senior research scientists or park superintendents tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities within park management or scientific research projects.

What is the difference between Scientists In Parks vs Environmental Scientists?

AspectScientists In ParksEnvironmental Scientists
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in ecology, biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in environmental science, ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentNational or state parks, outdoor settings, fieldworkResearch labs, government agencies, fieldwork in various environments
Employer & IndustryPark services, conservation agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Scientists In Parks and Environmental Scientists both focus on studying ecosystems and conservation. However, Scientists In Parks typically work directly within park environments, emphasizing fieldwork and conservation efforts in outdoor settings. Environmental Scientists often work in labs or offices, conducting research that supports environmental policies and solutions across various industries. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are vital for environmental protection, but their work settings and specific focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Scientists In Parks jobs in Columbus, OH? For Scientists In Parks jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientists In Parks jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Scientists In Parks jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Scientists In Parks jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Scientists In Parks job openings:
Infographic showing various Scientists In Parks job openings in Columbus, OH as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,859 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Information Systems Manager

$81K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Salary: $81,120.00 - $119,600.00 Annually
Location : Metro Parks Headquarters, 1069 W. Main St., Westerville, 43081, OH
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: MP9-26-01
Department: Finance
Opening Date: 06/11/2026
Closing Date: 6/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Purpose
Oversees and directs the organization's IT daily operations. Responsible for ensuring the availability, security, and efficiency of the technology infrastructure while leading, mentoring, and developing the IT staff.
Develops, executes and manages information technology strategies for Metro Parks. Maintains the integrity of the technology environments supporting the various parks and departments within Metro Parks. This includes providing strategic leadership, oversight, and management of the Metro Parks' information technology services, facilities, hardware, software, and IT staff.
Examples of Duties
Infrastructure Management
Maintains essential IT operations, including operating systems, security tools, servers, email systems, and network hardware. Ensures resource availability across a very diverse environment (22 parks + headquarter offices).
Business Critical Systems
Maximizes high availability and minimize operational downtime for core enterprise platforms, including Business Email, Financial System Software, Digital Asset Management (DAM) tools, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Team Leadership
Trains, mentors, develops, and evaluates IT staff. Assigns projects and oversee day-to-day IT support activities Supervises information technology sta? including approving leave requests, conducting performance evaluations, establishing goals, administering coaching and discipline, and assigning projects/work.
IT Strategy & Budget
Develops and implements IT policies, procedures, and strategic plans that support business growth. Collaborates with the Finance Director to prepare and manage the annual IT budget to ensure cost-efficiency. Develops and maintains equipment and software lifecycles and renewal processes.
Cybersecurity & Compliance
Establishes and enforces strict security measures to protect sensitive company and customer data. Ensures all systems comply with industry standards (particularly NIST CSF) and regulatory requirements. Works closely with the organization to develop, implement and monitor Business Continuity Plan (BCP) including Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP). Manage compliance relationships (such as auditors and insurance providers).
Project Management
Manages IT projects from planning to execution, including system upgrades, software migrations, and new hardware rollouts. Manages multiple and competing demands while determining the impact on time and budget. Report project status to directors.
Vendor Management
Liaise with external IT vendors, service providers, telecommunications providers, and consultants to procure hardware, software, and negotiate service contracts.
Endpoint Management
Manages the evaluation, review, and selection of computer equipment, software applications, and telecommunications equipment for all work units. Oversees Patch & Vulnerability Management initiatives to proactively identify system risks, deploy critical security updates, and shield the organization's digital environment from emerging threats.
Performs other duties as assigned or required.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Information Systems, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or any combination of education and equivalent enterprise-level industry experience will be considered.
Professional Experience
Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on IT industry experience required; 10+ years is highly preferred. Public sector IT experience is highly prefered.
Leadership
Previous experience in a management, supervisory, or team lead role is strongly preferred.
Preferred Certifications
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or similar
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) or CAPM or similar
  • ITIL Foundation Certification or similar
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or similar
  • Professional Google Workspace Administrator or similar

Preferred Experience
  • Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Windows Server
  • Google Workspace (Including mail, cloud storage, etc.)
  • FortiNet FortiGate NGFW
  • Aruba CX Switches, Cisco Catalyst Switches
  • Cloud-based RMM, Google Endpoint Management
  • Hypervisor (Microsoft Hyper-V, VMWare, Proxmox, etc.)
  • Modern Backup Solutions (Veeam, SaaS Backup, etc.)
  • VoIP phone systems

Team-Oriented
Works on a team. Outstanding customer service, communications and interpersonal skills.
Attendance
Being present at work is an essential function of the position.
Language Skills
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing to coworkers, other professionals, the general public, Franklin County Data Center, and public o?cials; ability to explain technical information in everyday language which non-technical people can understand; ability to train others. Ability to deal with and defuse di?cult and stressful situations calmly.
Mathematical Skills
Strong knowledge of basic mathematics; ability to deal with symbols in formulas, equations or graphs; ability to prepare meaningful, concise, and accurate reports; ability to calculate fractions, decimals, percentages; ability to recognize errors and make corrections. Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide. Ability to proofread technical materials, recognize errors and make corrections.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to de?ne problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions and develop appropriate recommendations to resolve identi?ed problems; ability to gather, collate and classify information about data, people, and things. Ability to design and produce concise and accurate reports that provide management with meaningful data for decision-making. Uses critical and systems thinking.
Licenses, Registrations
Possession of a valid Ohio driver license, insurable by Metro Parks' insurance carrier, and ability to conform to the driving standards policy.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for prolonged periods of time, walk/move, talk and hear. The employee is required to use hands and ?ngers to use computers, IT and basic office equipment, etc.Lifting up to 50lbs computer equipment without assistance is regularly required.
Work Environment
The employee regularly works in an o?ce environment, but is required to work in outdoor weather conditions to address networking, outdoor cameras, and telephone lines, etc. Outdoor work may occur in extreme weather conditions. Employee will be exposed to insects and poison ivy. The employee is required to travel to parks throughout the District and to other locations as necessary. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Work HoursEmployee must be prepared to work flexibles schedules, including evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as required.
Other Information
The above description represents the essential and most significant duties of this position. It is not intended to exclude other work duties, assignments and responsibilities not mentioned herein. In addition to the job description, further information in performing duties is found in the Metro Parks' Rules & Regulations, MetroLink, and Emergency Response Guidelines.
Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks has a longstanding commitment to provide a safe, quality-oriented and productive work environment. Alcohol and drug abuse pose a threat to the health and safety of Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks' employees and to the security of the organization's equipment and facilities. For these reasons, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment.
Full-time benefits include:
Medical
Dental
Vision
EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
Life Insurance
Supplemental Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, Children
Vacation Leave
Personal Leave
Sick Leave
Bereavement Leave
8 Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement
Uniforms for specified positions
Agency paid training & conferences
Ohio Public Employees Retirement System
Deferred Compensation Programs
01
Are you at least 18 years of age?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid Ohio Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have 6 or more points on your Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No
  • Will Explain in Interview

04
This position will typically require a minimum of 40 hours per week, with work hours occurring on evenings, weekends, and holidays. Are you willing and able to work a schedule like this?
  • Yes
  • No

05
I acknowledge that if I am selected and conditionally offered this position I must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and a criminal record check to be appointed to this position.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question