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  • COUNTY PARK RANGER II

    Salinas, California United States Monterey County Human Resources Full Time $5,652.92 - $7,720.79 Monthly Nov 01, 2025
    Monterey County Human Resources Employer:

    Monterey County Human Resources

    Monterey County Statement  Monterey County was founded in 1850 and is governed by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors. It is located on the beautiful Central Coast and is the longest county in California stretching 105 miles from the Santa Clara County border South to San Luis Obispo County.  Monterey County provides a full range of services to the community through its 26 departments and 5,000 plus employees.  As an employer, Monterey County is diverse and inclusive, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We aspire to hire employees who will contribute to the County’s mission to excel at providing quality services for the benefit all Monterey County residents while developing, maintaining, and enhancing the resources of the region.  The County offers a great benefits package and provides the opportunity to work with amazing colleagues who support and promote a safe, healthy and prosperous community for all.  Monterey County is rich in coastal lands and agricultural fields and is also known as the Salad Bowl of the World.  Monterey County is the best place to work and prides itself on being the employer of choice. The Right Career, Right Here! For more information please visit our website Please visit our Facebook page.

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Position Description

    Final Filing Date : Monday, December 1, 2025

    Exam# 25/68A41/10JA

    The Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department (PWFP) brings together a range of functions to ensure safe building construction, plan for the future needs of the County, manage infrastructure and county facilities, and protect natural resources. The Department is responsible for public works, county roads and bridges, county parks, and county facilities.

    Under general supervision, this Peace Officer position patrols park facilities and provides law enforcement, emergency medical and fire suppression services to protect county park and recreation properties, park visitors and employees; enforces regulations and ordinances governing the county park system; collects and accounts for park use fees; answers questions and provides information to the public; performs semi-skilled maintenance and construction work to maintain and improve park facilities

    County Park Ranger II is the journey-level peace officer in the series. Incumbents in this class perform the full scope of duties independently and have peace officer powers as defined in Section 830.31b of the Penal Code. These powers are utilized in the protection of natural park resources and the maintenance of order, security and safety in the county park systems.

    The Eligible List established by this recruitment process may be used County-wide to fill current and future vacancies on a regular full-time, part-time, or temporary basis.

    This classification is part of a flexible series. Incumbents appointed at the lower level of the career series may be promoted up to the higher level of the career series subject to their meeting the employment standards for the higher class and a recommendation for their promotion by the appointing authority.

    Examples of Duties

      ◦ Performs law enforcement functions by patrolling park areas to protect property and visitors and enforce California Motor Vehicle Code, boating law, Fish and Game Code, other penal, health, safety codes, and other applicable state and county codes and ordinances; issues written citations, performs field interrogations, and makes arrests; may testify in court as arresting officer or supporting witness
      ◦ Performs emergency response duties including law enforcement, administering first aid and/or CPR, and fire suppression
      ◦ Responds verbally or in writing to public or other agency inquiries regarding park operations and facilities; maintains records and files; prepares a variety of reports, such as those regarding incidents, accidents, injuries, arrests, citations, and applications of pesticide
      ◦ Operates various light and heavy equipment, vehicles, and motor boats

      ◦ Inspects parks area for safety hazards, vandalism, and damage; takes immediate action and/or refers to appropriate maintenance staff
    To view the complete classification description, please visit the County of Monterey website: County Park Ranger II

    THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
    Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

    Working Knowledge of:
      ◦ Principles and practices of law enforcement, park patrol and visitor safety including arrest and citation procedures and emergency medical and fire suppression techniques
      ◦ Defensive tactics used in law enforcement, including safe use of firearms
      ◦ Office automation to input and retrieve data
      ◦ First Aid techniques and practices, including CPR
      ◦ County, state and/or federal regulations and codes related to park operations
    Skill and Ability to:
      ◦ Enforce park, county and state codes, rules and regulations
      ◦ Read, interpret and explain rules and regulations governing park operations
      ◦ Administer and perform basic First Aid and CPR techniques and practices
      ◦ Carry and safely handle and discharge firearms
      ◦ Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action, including issue citations, interrogate others, and make arrests
      ◦ Safely drive and operate light and heavy equipment, vehicles, and water vessels
      ◦ Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to greet the public and make presentations before groups, and prepare a variety of reports, correspondence, and memoranda
      ◦ Follow written and verbal instructions and rules
      ◦ Detect safety hazards within park facilities and take appropriate action
      ◦ Maintain accurate and complete records
      ◦ Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
      ◦ Demonstrate the ability to swim safely for 50 yards in order to safely perform duties on and around large bodies of water


    Examples of Experience/Education/Training

    Any combination of training, education and/or experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities and required conditions of employment listed above is qualifying. An example of a way these requirements might be acquired is:

    Experience:

    One (1) year performing a variety of general grounds maintenance, park operations and law enforcement duties comparable to County Park Ranger I with Monterey County;

    OR

    Experience:

    One (1) year of experience performing a variety of general grounds maintenance and law enforcement duties in a public contact setting;

    AND

    Completion of all major coursework for a Associate’s Degree from an accredited college in parks management, environmental or natural resources management, recreational management, forestry, criminal justice, police administration, or a closely related field.

    Additional Information

    CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

    The required conditions of employment include, but are not limited to the following:
      ◦ Pursuant to Government Code Section 1029 and 1031, incumbent must meet minimum standards for peace officers as follows:
    Maintain citizenship of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenshipMust be a minimum of 21 years of ageComplete and successfully pass Live Scan fingerprinting for purposes of search of local, state, and national files to disclose any criminal recordDemonstrate good moral character, as determined by a thorough background investigationGraduate high school or pass the general education development (GED) test indicating high school graduation levelMust be found, after examination by a licensed physician and/or surgeon, to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition which might adversely affect his/her exercise of the powers of a peace officerSuccessfully pass a Voice Stress Analysis or Polygraph Test
      ◦ Obtain and maintain current certification at time of appointment :
      ◦ Basic Provider CPR, and Title 22 Basic First Aid certification
      ◦ P.C. 832 Laws of Arrest certification
      ◦ Wild land fire training
      ◦ Boating enforcement school training
      ◦ First Responder Medical certification
      ◦ Successfully maintain firearms qualification and defensive tactics certification
      ◦ May be required to pass physical agility exam
      ◦ Possess and maintain a valid California Class C driver’s license or the ability to provide suitable transportation that is approved by the appointing authority
      ◦ Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during times of disaster and/or emergency
      ◦ Wear a uniform and present a neat appearance
      ◦ Safely drive and operate small and/or large water vessels as appropriate in the performance

    BENEFITS:

    The County of Monterey offers an excellent benefits package. Please visit our website to view the Q Unit Benefit Summary Sheet . This information is not legally binding, nor does it serve as a contract. The benefits listed in the Monterey County Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) prevail over this listing.

    NOTES:
      ◦ As a condition of employment, prospective employees may be required to submit to a background review which may include a review of information concerning present and/or prior employment, driving record, and record of any criminal convictions.
      ◦ Employment is contingent upon acceptable documentation verifying identity and authorization for employment in the U.S.; a list of acceptable documents is available on the USCIS Form I-9.
      ◦ If you are hired into this classification in a temporary position, your rate of pay will be hourly, and you will not be eligible for the benefits listed in the summary.


    Application and Selection Procedures

    Apply On-Line at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/montereycounty ,

    by Monday, December 1, 2025 , 11:59 PM(PST)

    Or

    Hard copy applications may be obtained from and submitted during normal business hours, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM by contacting: Monterey County, Public Works, Facilities and Parks Department

    Attn: Julie Aulenta, Senior Human Resources Analyst, 1441 Schilling Place, 1st Floor, Salinas CA 93901 Email: aulentaja@countyofmonterey.gov Phone: (831) 755-5014 Fax: (831) 784-5603

    The selection process is tentative, and applicants will be notified if changes are made. To assess applicants' possession of required qualifications, the examination process may include an oral examination, pre-examination exercises, performance examination, and/or written examination. The competitive examination process includes submittal of required application materials. A complete application package will include:

      ◦ A completed County of Monterey Employment Application

      ◦ Responses to the Supplemental Questions

    Applicants who fail to provide all required materials by the final filing deadline will not be considered. Resumes, cover letters, letters of interest, and other correspondence will not be accepted as a substitute for required application materials. All required application materials will be competitively evaluated. Those applicants that are determined to be the most appropriately qualified will be invited to participate further in the selection process.

    EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

    Monterey County is a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer. The County seeks candidates who can make contributions in an environment of cultural and ethnic diversity. Monterey County is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Julie Aulenta , Senior Human Resources Analyst, at (831) 755-4893, or aulentaja@countyofmonterey.gov .

    http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-a-h/human-resources/human-resources/benefits/benefit-summary-sheet

    Closing Date/Time: 12/1/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

    Special Instructions

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

LATEST JOBS

A Guide to Government Forestry Jobs: How A Public Lands Management Gives Back

A Guide to Government Forestry Jobs: How A Public Lands Management Gives Back

Government forest service careers span a wide range of responsibilities and expertise levels, offering something for nearly every interest within the field. Here are three of the most common and sought-after positions:

1. Forest Technician

  • Entry-level position
  • Tends to plants on public property, assists in basic management tasks
  • Often involves physical outdoor work

2. Park Ranger

  • Serves as a steward of public lands
  • Enforces regulations, educates visitors, and manages recreational activities
  • Often requires law enforcement training

3. Fish and Wildlife Technician

  • Assists in managing and conserving fish and wildlife populations in forested areas
  • Conducts field surveys, collects data, and monitors species health
  • Often works closely with Forest Ecologists and other specialists

Each of these positions plays a crucial role in the management and preservation of our forest lands. As you consider your career path, think about which aspects of forestry most excite you. Do you thrive on fieldwork like soil conservation, or do you prefer analysis and policy development? Are you passionate about fire protection, or does urban forestry spark your interest?

By understanding the range of available positions, you can better tailor your education, experience, and job search to align with your career goals in government forestry. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline of firefighting or the precision of GIS mapping, there’s a role in government forestry where you can make a meaningful impact on our natural resources.

 

Educational Requirements and Certifications

Ready to cultivate your knowledge and credentials for a thriving career in government forestry? Let’s explore the educational pathways and certifications that can set you apart in this competitive field.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree

Most government forestry jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field. Common majors include:

  • Forestry
  • Environmental Science
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Wildlife Biology
  • Conservation Biology
Key coursework often includes:
  • Forest ecology and management
  • Silviculture
  • Soil science
  • Hydrology
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Wildlife management
  • Environmental policy and law
Advanced Degrees

Some specialized or higher-level positions may require a master’s degree or PhD. These are particularly valuable for research-oriented roles or senior management positions. Advanced degrees can focus on areas such as:

  • Forest ecology
  • Ecosystem management
  • Environmental policy
  • Conservation biology
Certifications

While not always mandatory, certifications can significantly enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Consider pursuing:

Certified Forester (CF)

  • Offered by the Society of American Foresters
  • Requires a combination of education and experience
  • Demonstrates a broad knowledge of forestry principles and practices

Certified Arborist

  • Offered by the International Society of Arboriculture
  • Particularly valuable for urban forestry positions

ESRI Technical Certifications

  • For GIS specialists or those working extensively with mapping software
  • Demonstrates proficiency in using ArcGIS and other ESRI products

Project Management Professional (PMP)

  • Useful for those managing large-scale forestry projects
  • Demonstrates skills in planning, executing, and overseeing complex initiatives
Continuing Education

The field of forestry is constantly evolving. Many agencies encourage or require ongoing professional development through workshops, seminars, and courses on topics like:

  • Climate change adaptation
  • Invasive species management
  • Advanced GIS applications
  • Fire ecology and management

While formal education and certifications are crucial, hands-on experience is equally valuable. Consider internships, volunteer work, or seasonal positions to complement your academic credentials and stand out in the competitive government forestry job market.

By combining a strong educational foundation with relevant certifications and practical experience, you’ll be well-positioned to launch a successful career in government forestry. Stay curious, keep learning, and let your passion for forest conservation guide your professional development journey.

 

Skills and Qualities Needed for Success

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Beyond formal education, what personal attributes will help you thrive in a government forestry career? Let’s look at the mix of hard and soft skills that can set you apart in this dynamic field.

Successful government foresters possess a unique blend of technical knowledge, practical skills, and personal qualities. Here’s what you’ll need to excel:

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping software
  • Understanding of forest management principles and practices
  • Knowledge of relevant environmental laws and regulations
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills
  • Familiarity with remote sensing technologies
  • Basic programming skills (e.g., R, Python) for data analysis

Field Skills

  • Ability to navigate using maps and GPS
  • Proficiency in using forestry tools (e.g., clinometers, increment borers)
  • Plant and wildlife identification skills
  • First aid and wilderness survival knowledge
  • Experience with field data collection techniques

Physical Abilities

  • Stamina for long days of fieldwork in various weather conditions
  • Ability to carry heavy equipment over rough terrain
  • Comfort working in remote areas

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

  • Critical thinking to assess complex ecological systems
  • Ability to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions
  • Creative problem-solving for unique environmental challenges

Communication Skills

  • Strong written communication for reports and grant applications
  • Verbal communication skills for presenting findings and educating the public
  • Ability to explain technical concepts to non-experts

Interpersonal Skills

  • Teamwork and collaboration abilities
  • Cultural sensitivity when working with diverse communities
  • Conflict resolution skills for managing stakeholder interests

Adaptability

  • Flexibility to work in changing environmental and political landscapes
  • Willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies
  • Ability to shift between office work and field assignments

Attention to Detail

  • Precision in data collection and analysis
  • Careful observation of environmental changes
  • Accuracy in following safety protocols and regulations

Project Management

  • Ability to plan and execute long-term projects
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Budget management experience

Environmental Passion

  • Genuine interest in conservation and environmental stewardship
  • Commitment to sustainable forest management practices
  • Enthusiasm for outdoor work and nature

You can also hone your skills in the following ways:

  • Seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience.
  • Join professional organizations like the Society of American Foresters.
  • Attend workshops and conferences to stay updated on industry trends.
  • Practice your communication skills through presentations or writing for forestry publications.
  • Develop your leadership abilities through team projects or community initiatives.

In the ever-evolving field of forestry, one of the most valuable skills is the ability to continue learning throughout your career. Stay curious, embrace new challenges, and never stop growing your skillset.

By cultivating this diverse range of skills and qualities, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the complex challenges of government forestry work. Whether you’re managing a controlled burn, analyzing satellite imagery, or collaborating with local communities, your broad skill set will enable you to make a meaningful impact in forest conservation and management.

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Challenges and Rewards of Government Forestry Work

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Like any career, government forestry has its ups and downs. Are you prepared to face the challenges and reap the incredible rewards of this vital field?

Challenges

1. Budget Constraints

  • Limited funding can restrict projects and resources
  • Need to be creative in maximizing impact with available funds

2. Bureaucracy

  • Navigating complex government systems and regulations
  • Potentially slower decision-making processes

3. Balancing Diverse Stakeholder Interests

  • Mediating between environmental, economic, and recreational needs
  • Addressing conflicts between different user groups

4. Political Influences

  • Adapting to changing administrations and policy priorities
  • Maintaining scientific integrity amid political pressures

5. Remote Work Locations

  • Potential for assignments in isolated areas
  • Limited access to urban amenities

6. Physical Demands

  • Fieldwork can be physically challenging and sometimes dangerous
  • Exposure to harsh weather conditions and natural hazards

7. Work-Life Balance

  • Seasonal demands may require long hours during peak periods
  • Emergency responses (e.g., wildfires) can disrupt personal plans

8. Emotional Challenges

  • Witnessing environmental degradation or loss of forest resources
  • Dealing with public criticism or resistance to management decisions

9. Technological Adaptation

  • Keeping up with rapidly evolving forestry technologies and methods
  • Integrating new tools into established practices

Rewards

1. Environmental Impact

  • Direct contribution to forest conservation and sustainability
  • Opportunity to shape the future of natural resources

2. Job Stability and Benefits

  • Government positions often offer good job security
  • Comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance and retirement plans

3. Diverse and Engaging Work

  • Variety of tasks and projects, from fieldwork to policy development
  • Continuous learning opportunities in a dynamic field

4. Career Advancement

  • Clear career paths within government agencies
  • Opportunities for specialization and leadership roles

5. Work in Natural Settings

  • Regular exposure to beautiful, often pristine environments
  • Connection with nature as part of daily work

6. Professional Community

  • Collaboration with passionate, like-minded professionals
  • Participation in a global community of forest stewards

7. Public Service

  • Satisfaction of serving the public and future generations
  • Ability to educate others about forest conservation

8. Scientific Contribution

  • Opportunities to participate in research and data collection
  • Potential to contribute to scientific understanding of forest ecosystems

9. Tangible Results

  • Visible outcomes of forest management and restoration efforts
  • Long-term impact on landscape and wildlife populations

10. Work-Life Integration

  • For outdoor enthusiasts, work aligns closely with personal interests
  • Potential for unique experiences like living in national forests

While the challenges of government forestry work are real, many professionals find that the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. The opportunity to make a lasting impact on our natural world drives many to pursue and persist in this vital career.

Many of the challenges in government forestry work are also opportunities for growth and innovation. Budget constraints can spark creative solutions, while stakeholder conflicts can lead to more inclusive and sustainable management practices. Your ability to navigate these challenges will not only advance your career but also contribute to better forest management overall.

When you understand both the challenges and rewards of government forestry work, you can make an informed decision about your career path and prepare yourself for the realities of this important field. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of nature, the complexity of ecosystem management, or the satisfaction of public service, a career in government forestry offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in the world.

 

Resources for Further Information

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Your journey into government forestry doesn’t end here. Dive deeper into the field with these valuable resources that will help you stay informed, connected, and prepared for your forestry career.

Professional Organizations

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is an excellent starting point for aspiring government foresters. With over 11,000 members, SAF offers networking opportunities, career resources, and access to the latest forestry research.

For those interested in urban forestry, the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) provides specialized knowledge and certifications.

If you’re drawn to wildlife management aspects of forestry, consider exploring The Wildlife Society, which bridges the gap between forestry and wildlife conservation.

Government Agencies

The U.S. Forest Service is the largest employer of foresters in the country and offers a wealth of information on forest management practices. Their careers page is a must-bookmark for job seekers.

The Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service also offer unique perspectives on public land management and preservation, with career information available on their respective websites.

Educational Resources

To enhance your forestry knowledge, explore the USDA’s Forestry Education Resources. These free materials cover a range of topics. For more in-depth, research-based information, check out wildland fire statistics from the same organization.

Publications and Journals

Stay current with the latest research by regularly reading the Journal of Forestry and Forest Science, both available through Oxford Academic. These peer-reviewed publications offer cutting-edge insights into forestry science and management practices.

Online Learning Platforms

Platforms like Coursera and edX offer forestry and environmental science courses from top universities. These can be excellent ways to broaden your knowledge or specialize in specific areas of forestry.

Networking and Forums

Engage with fellow professionals through online communities like the Forestry Forum. LinkedIn also hosts several forestry-focused groups where you can network and discuss industry trends.

The field of forestry is constantly evolving. Regular engagement with these resources will keep you at the forefront of industry trends, scientific advancements, and career opportunities.

By leveraging these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue and advance your career in government forestry. Whether you’re researching the latest forest management techniques, looking for job openings, or connecting with fellow professionals, these tools will support your journey in becoming a skilled and informed government forester.

Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to professionals in the field or contact government agencies for more specific information about employment opportunities and careers trajectories. Your proactive approach to learning and networking can open doors to exciting possibilities in government forestry.

Embarking on a career in government forestry is a commitment to the stewardship of our nation’s natural resources. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the diverse roles, educational requirements, skills needed, and both the challenges and rewards that come with this career path. From the forests of the Pacific Northwest to the urban canopies of our biggest cities, government foresters play a crucial role in shaping the future of our environment.

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