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  • Park Ranger Supervisor

    Renton, Washington United States KING COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF WATER & LAND RESOURCES Full Time $42.75 - $54.19 Hourly May 03, 2026
    King County Water and Land Resources Division Employer:

    KING COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF WATER & LAND RESOURCES

    The Water and Land Resources Division is at the forefront of King County’s efforts to protect and restore clean water and healthy habitat and strengthen the resilience of communities, environment, and infrastructure in the face climate change. We are a dedicated workforce of more than 400 supported by an annual budget of ~$250 million. WLRD has a strong track record of developing innovative strategies for protecting working farms and forests, restoring habitat, protecting water quality, and ensuring people have equitable access to green space. We reduce flood hazards, manage stormwater facilities, and reduce toxic threats.  Our Environmental Lab and Science section maintain high-quality data sets used in long term-water quality trend analysis and use Best Available Science to inform decision making.  We house three salmon recovery forums and support the Land Conservation Initiative, which will preserve our last, most important natural lands and urban green spaces over the next 30 years. Our forestry and agricultural programs help people protect their lands and support local food production.   

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Summary

    Make a positive and lasting impact as the leader of the Parks Division’s Park Ranger Program in the role of Park Ranger Supervisor. This position is responsible for the effective leadership, development, and daily operations of the Ranger team, serving as a key partner to both internal colleagues and the broader community.

    If you excel at engaging with people, educating the public, fostering connection in shared outdoor spaces, and working outdoors in all types of weather, the Park Ranger Supervisor role offers an exceptional opportunity to thrive. This position is ideal for someone who values community service, enjoys dynamic work, and is committed to creating welcoming and safe park experiences for all.

    About the Role: You will lead the day-to-day operations of a new program within the Parks Division, overseeing both the development and supervision of a team of Park Rangers and the overall design and management of ranger services. Core responsibilities include budget oversight, scheduling, staff leadership and development, establishing protocols and procedures, and modeling the standards and values expected of the program.

    A central focus of this role is the continued growth and refinement of the ranger program to enhance the experience of all county park users. The Parks Division is seeking an experienced leader who is deeply committed to public lands, community connection, and the effective delivery of programmatic services for our constituents.

    Success in this position requires strong public-facing leadership, including navigating diverse community dynamics and resolving complex situations to ensure a welcoming and safe environment for all visitors. This is an onsite, mission-critical role that may serve as a point of contact during countywide and park-specific emergencies, requiring availability during such events.

    About the Team: This position leads and supervises a team of 5 Career Service Park Rangers within the Operations (OPS) Section with the potential for additional seasonal short-term temporary staff additions. The rangers are a frontline service team that works directly with the community in their daily use of the county’s park system as well as internal partners across the division. While many OPS staff focus on physical maintenance, repair, and restoration of park properties, the Park Ranger Supervisor and Ranger team complement this work by providing interactive programming, information sharing, park use compliance, and direct public-facing customer service.

    The core function of the Ranger team is to deliver effective internal and external customer service, provide educational programming and information, and help ensure a safe, welcoming environment for all community members. Rangers also collaborate closely with other Parks Division sections, King County partners, and community stakeholders to support meaningful programming and consistent information delivery . The Ranger Supervisor will also lead the effective deployment of educational and physical programmatic resources via an evidence-based approach to ensure community needs are supported and addressed.

    Commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice: King County, named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a diverse and vibrant community that represents cultures from around the world. Our True North is to create a welcoming community where everyone can thrive. We prioritize equity, racial and social justice, making it a foundational and daily expectation for all employees. As a Park Ranger Supervisor you will actively apply these principles in all aspects of your work. Learn more about our commitment at http://www.kingcounty.gov/equity .

    Apply now for a rewarding career at the Apply now for a rewarding career at the King County Parks Division of the King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks (DNRP). Join our talented workforce in protecting and restoring the natural environment and promoting more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities. Enjoy training, comprehensive benefits , and growth opportunities.

    Job Duties

    What You Will Be Doing:
    • Maintain a positive, welcoming, and professional presence to park users and Parks staff, as well as to your team each day.
    • Supervise and build an effective team and manage and organize program deliverables, outcomes, and expectations.
    • Promote safe use of our parks and maintain an inclusive environment for all according to King County Parks rules and other County codes and State laws.
    • Communicate professionally and coordinate with various internal and external customers to inform work priorities where Rangers can be most effective via use of radio, cell phone, computer and other means of communication.
    • Effectively collect and document interactions with the public using various electronic platforms for data analysis and program development. Consistent communication of key data and metrics will be required for keeping managers, stakeholders as well as your own team updated on programmatic needs, goals, and refinement of service.
    • Safely operate King County assigned equipment in the execution of duties - such as motor vehicles and bicycles, while navigating various terrains across the Parks system on a daily basis.


    Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

    Qualifications You Bring:

    Programmatic Proficiency
    • Demonstrated experience designing and managing programs and aligning resources and stakeholders to achieve program intent.
    • Experience in using data to gauge challenges and successes in a program and making informed decisions based on data.

    Supervisory Experience
    • Minimum two (2) years supervisory experience of multiple reports.
    • Experience developing a team.

    Communication and collaboration
    • Experience interacting with the public, in any of the following categories: Park Ranger; Community Engagement; Land Management; Outdoor Education.
    • Exceptional ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, including during stressful public encounters.
    • Strong ability to work collaboratively with various teams and agencies, specifically under urgent circumstances.
    • Strong skills in documenting incidents, writing reports, and communicating issues to relevant authorities.
    • Ability to utilize communication technology, such as radio and phone apps for effective coordination and language interpretation in the field.

    Conflict resolution
    • Demonstrated experience resolving issues and finding common ground during tense situations.
    • De-escalation training is a plus.

    Physical Requirements:
    • Ability to ride a 2-wheel non-electric mountain bike without accommodation over uneven terrain throughout a full shift in various weather conditions.
    • Ability to work in all types of weather and walking, hiking, and biking on various uneven terrains for multiple hours per day.
    • Ability to safely drive a vehicle and potentially tow and place mobile message boards, speed limit devices, or other devices to help with safety in parks or informing the public.

    Competencies You Bring:
    • Customer Focus: Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
    • Manages Complexity: Making sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
    • Plans and Aligns: Planning and prioritizing work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals.
    • Builds Effective Teams: Building strong-identity teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to achieve common goals.
    • Instills Trust: Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.

    Required Licenses/Certifications:

    WA. State driver’s license.

    It Would Be Great if You Also Bring:
    • Current certification in CPR and AED.
    • Ability to communicate in non-English languages.
    • Training in de-escalation techniques.
    • Experience in emergency management.
    • Experience working in a public service setting.


    Supplemental Information

    Working Conditions:
    • Work Location:This role requires daily onsite reporting. Onsite reporting locations may be at various King County worksites and parks including the Parks Central Maintenance Facility located at 3005 NE 4 th St, Renton, WA 98056.
    • Work Schedule: This full-time position works a 40-hour work week. This position is covered under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is overtime eligible. The current Supervisor schedule is 7:30am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday.
    • Union Representation: This position is not represented by a union.

    Application and Selection Process: We welcome applications from all qualified applicants. We value diversity, diverse perspectives and life experience and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

    Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness and alignment with the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills essential for this role to determine which candidates may be invited to participate in one or more panel interviews.

    To apply, submit a:
    • Complete Application
    • Optional Resume (will be reviewed if submitted)
    • Optional Cover Letter (will be reviewed if submitted)

    Note: Additional documents won't be considered during minimum qualification screening.

    Who to Contact: For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact Patty Jurgens at patty.jurgens@kingcounty.gov .

    Discover More About the Parks Division: Visit our website and check us out at Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and Flickr .

    Discover More About DNRP: Visit our webs ite , explore an interactive map of our recent accomplishments and check us out at Facebook , X (formerly Twitter) , LinkedIn , TikTok , Instagram , YouTube and Keeping King County Green News .

    Sign up for Job Alerts to be notified of additional career opportunities with King County. Select the Natural Resources category for DNRP opportunities and explore other categories of interest.

    Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
    Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.

    Guided by our "True North" , we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles - we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.

    King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer

    No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.

    To Apply

    If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement.

    King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
    • Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their eligible dependents
    • Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
    • Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
    • Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
    • 12paid holidays each year plus twopersonal holidays
    • Generous vacation and paid sick leave
    • Paid parental,family and medical, and volunteer leaves
    • Flexible Spending Account
    • Wellness programs
    • Onsite activity centers
    • Employee Giving Program
    • Employee assistance programs
    • Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
    • Training and career development programs
    For additional information about employee benefits, visit our Benefits, Payroll, and Retirement Page .

    This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.

    NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position.Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.

    For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.

    Closing Date/Time: 5/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

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

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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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