The average salary for a Park Ranger in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is approximately $14.25 per hour, which translates to around $29,700 per year. This is slightly lower than the average salary for a Park Ranger in Tennessee, which is around $45,251 per year.
Salary Comparison
To better understand the Smoky Mountain Park Ranger Salary, let’s compare it to the national and state averages:
| Location | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| United States | $18.44 per hour |
| Tennessee | $45,251 per year |
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | $14.25 per hour or $29,700 per year |
As you can see, the Smoky Mountain Park Ranger Salary is lower than the national and state averages, but it’s important to consider the cost of living in the area and the additional benefits that may be provided.
Educational Requirements
To become a Park Ranger in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field such as environmental science, natural resources, or a related discipline. Many Park Rangers also hold advanced degrees or certifications in areas like law enforcement, natural history, or cultural history.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the base salary, Park Rangers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park may receive the following benefits:
- Housing: Some positions provide housing at no cost to the employee.
- Living Stipend: Many positions offer a living stipend to help cover the cost of living in the area.
- Education Award: Some positions include an education award, which can be used to further your education or training.
These additional benefits can help offset the slightly lower base salary and make the Smoky Mountain Park Ranger position more attractive to potential candidates.
Factors Affecting Smoky Mountain Park Ranger Salary
Several factors can influence the Smoky Mountain Park Ranger Salary, including:
- Experience Level: Park Rangers with more years of experience and specialized skills may earn higher salaries.
- Job Responsibilities: Park Rangers with additional responsibilities, such as law enforcement or management duties, may receive higher pay.
- Location: The cost of living in the Great Smoky Mountains region can impact the overall salary.
- Funding and Budget: The National Park Service’s budget and funding allocations can affect the salaries offered to Park Rangers.
Career Advancement Opportunities
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers various career advancement opportunities for Park Rangers, including:
- Specialized Roles: Park Rangers can pursue specialized roles in areas like law enforcement, interpretation, or resource management.
- Supervisory Positions: Experienced Park Rangers may be eligible for supervisory or management positions, which often come with higher salaries.
- Lateral Transfers: Park Rangers can transfer to other national parks or federal agencies, potentially leading to higher-paying positions.
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountain Park Ranger Salary may be slightly lower than the national and state averages, but the position offers a unique opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful and diverse national parks in the United States. With the additional benefits and opportunities for career advancement, the Smoky Mountain Park Ranger role can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those passionate about the great outdoors and public service.
References
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/tennessee-park-ranger-salary-SRCH_IL.0,9_IS1968_KO10,21.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/salaries/Park%20Ranger/Great%20Smoky%20Mountains%20National%20Park,%20TN
- https://www.parkrangeredu.org/tennessee/
- https://www.nps.gov/grsm/getinvolved/workwithus.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/cmp/U.S.-National-Park-Service/salaries/Park-Ranger/Tennessee