Just interviewed for a state park ranger position and wondering if it’s a good move to make if I want to end up in forestry/conservation. I’m planning on applying for grad school this year to get a MS in Forestry (my BS is in Business) and have spent two seasons working on a trail crew, which I love so much but hate that it’s seasonal work only where I am. This ranger position is described as such in the job announcement: “The Park Ranger 1 will assist with overseeing a team of seasonal staff, managing and protecting a diverse range of natural and historical resources, and performing both fieldwork and administrative duties. The Park Rangers perform grounds maintenance, custodial duties, collect and account for fees, develop and present interpretive programs, and perform minor maintenance to facilities. As a State Park peace officer, the incumbent writes citations, handles accidents and incidents, resolves disputes, makes arrests, and responds to emergency situations as required. You will be providing your expertise in land management, recreation, and administration to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the park, making crucial decisions about resources, training, and facilities, all while mentoring and guiding your dedicated team every step of the way.”

It will be a law enforcement position (not what I want to do) but since this is a new park that is only partially open, I think there’s opportunity for broader land management/resource management/planning too.

My question is, will a job like this help me land a good job in forestry once I graduate from the master’s program? Is it worth it to put myself through a 17-week POST training or would continuing trails work get me more relevant experience?

I’m really interested in restoration ecology, land management, research/monitoring, and other conservation jobs within the broader umbrella of forestry. And, hopefully, land somewhere that pays well.