How to Become a National Park Ranger

National Park Rangers are charged with many duties inside of a national park, but most of all they are responsible for the safety and security of those using the parks. Additionally, rangers may serve as naturalists and be associated with information and fee collection activities as well as law enforcement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related field such as park management, natural history or forestry National Park Service information and application Red Cross first aid and CPR training Law enforcement or BLET training
Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related field such as park management, natural history or forestry
National Park Service information and application
Red Cross first aid and CPR training
Law enforcement or BLET training

Step 1

Select a college or university that offers a degree program that will satisfy the application requirements of the U.S. Park Service. A bachelor's degree in natural history, forestry, park management or criminal justice is attractive to the Park Service.

Step 2

Obtain the necessary information regarding a position with the Park Service to ensure that you're taking the necessary course work and achieving a desirable grade point average. Do not wait until college graduation to begin the process; begin after high school graduation. Stay current on changes to hiring policies.

Step 3

Apply for summer positions with the Park Service while in college. This is an excellent means of getting a foot in the door, obtaining on the job training and gaining insight into areas of service that may prove of particular interest.

Step 4

Obtain an application for a Park Service job upon graduation from college. There will also be other related paperwork all of which must be completed. Make sure to return the materials to the appropriate department in a timely manner.

Step 5

Continue to gain experience after graduation in fields of work relating to positions with the Park Service if you are not immediately hired on a full-time basis. Further work experience and knowledge of fields relating to positions within the Park Service can help make you an attractive candidate down the road.

Tips & Warnings

Carefully monitor your educational process throughout your college years. Consider a minor in a subject which will make you more valuable as an employment candidate.

Do not become discouraged if you are not hired upon first application. Continue to gain experience in related fields and resubmit or apply when you are able. There may be associated waiting periods for submitting new or updated applications.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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