Odds of Getting In
Despite the low pay, getting a park ranger job is a competitive business. What can we say? People love the woods...or maybe it's that sweet hat.
Most rangers have to start out in a seasonal part-time position. You won't get paid much for this, but if you can land one of these jobs, it gives you a huge advantage over anybody who's trying to dive right into the forest. Volunteering at a park or museum beforehand ups the odds of landing a part-time position. You can even get started on this when you're still in college or high school.
Also, like we said in Qualifications, having a four-year degree will totally give you a leg up, especially if you're gunning for a higher-paying position (and why wouldn't you be?).