Requirements for Forest Rangers
Forest rangers work on national and state forest lands, which include wilderness areas and historical sites. They spend most of the summer months outdoors in forests, campgrounds and along bodies of water performing tasks related to conservation and habitat restoration. Forest rangers also spend the winter months indoors completing paperwork and preparing educational materials.
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Education
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Forest rangers who work in federal parks need a bachelor's degree in natural science, social science, parks and recreation, business or natural resource management. A master's degree is helpful for career advancement.
Physical Requirements
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Some forest rangers need to meet height, weight, vision and hearing criteria. For example, highly skilled firefighters called Smokejumpers must be between 5 feet and 6 feet 4 inches tall.
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Pre-Employment Requirements
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Forest Ranger candidates must pass a physical examination, a physical endurance test and a drug test. They must also agree to a criminal background check; a felony conviction or misdemeanor can bar employment.
Application
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The National Park Service requires applicants to submit an Occupational Questionnaire, resume and transcript. Points are assigned to each applicant based on how well the responses to the questionnaire match the resume.
Tests and Certification
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Forest Rangers need to pass a written Civil Service exam. Some firefighting positions require completion of the Work Capacity Test--a rigorous physical endurance exam. Other law enforcement positions require police officer certification.
Cross-training
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Sometimes forest rangers seek out or must complete additional training for career advancement. For example, rangers trained in aviation management may be required to learn emergency medical response.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Prince William Forest Park, nps.gov
