Park rangers protect park lands, assist visitors, and enforce regulations. Park rangers sometimes must deal with emergency situations and assist in search and rescue. They work in national, state and county parks, historical sites, nature preserves, and many other settings. Requirements vary depending on the size and type of the park, but many are similar for most locations.
Work Hours
Park rangers must be available and willing to work overtime and irregular hours during the summer, when park usage increases. These hours generally include evenings, weekends and holidays.
Education
Because the jobs are very competitive, most require a bachelor's degree in park and recreation management, environmental sciences or business administration.
Physical Requirements
Park ranger requirements include physical fitness, strength, agility, and the ability to be walking for a large part of the day. If the park has water areas, the rangers must be able to swim. They also must have excellent eyesight.
Driving Ability
Park rangers must hold a valid driver's license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
First Aid Certification
Usually, park rangers must have a valid Red Cross first aid certificate and a cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate from the Red Cross or American Heart Association.
Legal Aspects
Some positions prohibit a prior conviction of a felony, and all require drug screening for hiring.
