How Much Does a National Park Ranger Make? An Overview of Salaries Across Regions

Introduction

National park rangers are responsible for protecting our nation’s parks, monuments, and other public lands. They serve as stewards of these areas and help to ensure that they remain accessible to the public while also preserving their natural beauty. This role requires a unique set of skills that includes knowledge of natural resources, wildlife management, law enforcement, and customer service. But how much does a national park ranger make? We spoke to a national park ranger to get a better understanding of the job and the salary expectations.

Interview with a National Park Ranger

We spoke with Sean, an experienced national park ranger who works in the western United States. He has been in the field for over 15 years and is passionate about his work. When asked about his job satisfaction, Sean was quick to point out the many rewards of the job. “I love being able to explore new places and meet new people,” he said. “The best part is being able to share my knowledge and appreciation of the outdoors with others.”

When it comes to salary, Sean reported that national park rangers are generally paid according to the federal government’s General Schedule (GS) pay scale. The GS pay scale is divided into 15 “steps” or levels, each of which corresponds to a certain salary range. For example, Step 1 is the lowest step and pays up to $23,767 per year, while Step 10 pays up to $48,955 per year. The exact salary will depend on the individual’s experience, education, and qualifications.

Overview of the Average Pay for National Park Rangers in Different Regions

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for national park rangers was $44,890 in 2019. However, this number can vary significantly depending on the region. For example, rangers in the Northeast tend to make more than those in the Midwest or South. This is likely due to the higher cost of living and greater population density in the Northeast.

The size of the park can also have an impact on salary. In larger parks, there may be more opportunities for advancement and higher salaries. Smaller parks may offer lower salaries, but they may provide more intimate experiences with nature and fewer crowds.

Analysis of the Range of Salaries for National Park Rangers

The range of salaries for national park rangers can vary widely depending on experience and qualifications. Entry-level rangers with no prior experience typically start at Step 1 of the GS pay scale, while experienced rangers with advanced degrees and certifications may reach Step 10 or higher. Additional certifications such as first aid, CPR, and law enforcement training can also have a positive impact on salary.

Rangers may also receive bonuses or other forms of compensation depending on the park they work at. These could include housing allowances, educational stipends, and other benefits. These can vary significantly, so it is important to research the specific park you are interested in working at.

Conclusion

National park rangers play a vital role in protecting our nation’s parks and public lands. While the exact salary will depend on the individual’s experience, qualifications, and the region they work in, the average annual salary for national park rangers is around $44,890. Additional certifications and experience can lead to higher salaries, while smaller parks may provide more intimate experiences with nature and fewer crowds.

This overview provides a general understanding of the salary range for national park rangers, but further research is needed to understand the specifics of each park and region. With a better understanding of the salary expectations, potential candidates can make an informed decision about whether or not this career path is right for them.