Park Ranger Career
How to become a park ranger and details of the profession.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy mingling amongst wildlife and people. No, this isn't your average day job—not that you'll never have to fix a paper-jammed copier, but because you'll be much too busy dealing with safety, protection, and conservation issues.
Depending on your level of education and experience (this is a job where it actually pays off to be an avid hiker and camper), you could be working at a popular national park or in an administrative role developing policy. However, regardless of your assignment or field specialty you should always expect to be ready for the un-expected. Your duties might include anything from putting out fires-to arresting trespassers-to leading a search and rescue team—all in a single day. And yes, you'll wear a “Smoky Bear” hat.
Park Ranger Facts
Where they work:
- National and state parks
- Historical sites
- Camping and recreational areas
What they do:
- Protect natural and cultural resources, protect people
- Investigate violations, complaints, and accidents
- Provide visitor information and guide tours
- Administration support and leadership (human resources, budgeting & finance, policy)
Education requirements:
- Bachelor's degree for entry level positions; graduate degree for managerial and administrative
- Desired majors:
Forestry, Park & Recreation Management, Business or Public Administration, Geology, Botany, Conservation, Wildlife Management, Criminal Justice, and others applicable in management, protection, and safety.
Major employer:
- U.S. Department of Interior
Salary levels:
- Entry: 25,000
- Mid-level: 24,000 – 27,000
- 10 years or more: 37,000
