Ranger Thomas Young

For Ranger Thomas Young, a career in South Carolina State Parks is the perfect blend of purpose, passion and the outdoors.

Currently serving as a Ranger II at Santee State Park, Thomas brings energy and enthusiasm to his role—along with a deep appreciation for the natural resources he helps protect. At 25 years old, he’s already building a meaningful career rooted in service, shaped by his upbringing and early experiences in the outdoors. At home, he’s joined by his 10-month-old German Wirehair Pointer, Oryx, who no doubt keeps him just as active off the clock.

Thomas grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, and spent much of his childhood exploring the woods of his family’s farm in nearby Dallas, North Carolina. Those early outdoor experiences, combined with his involvement in Boy Scouts—where he became a third-generation Eagle Scout—helped lay the foundation for his future career.

By his senior year of high school, Thomas knew exactly where he was headed. After spending seven summers as a camp counselor and lifeguard—teaching kids how to swim and promoting water safety—he realized he wanted a career that kept him outside and working with people.

That path led him to Western Carolina University, where he graduated in 2022 with a degree in Parks and Recreation Management and a minor in Philosophy and Religion. Shortly after graduating, he joined the South Carolina State Park Service, beginning his career as an Assistant Ranger at Kings Mountain State Park.

After a year of hard work and hands-on learning, Thomas was promoted to his current role at Santee State Park, where he continues to grow and take on new responsibilities.

Like many park rangers, no two days on the job look the same. From assisting visitors to maintaining park facilities and supporting events, the role requires flexibility and a willingness to jump in wherever needed—something Thomas embraces fully. 

One of his favorite parts of the job is helping create meaningful experiences for visitors, especially during events like the park’s Big Daddy Fishing Tournament. “Every year we get to introduce families to fishing and send all our participants home with basic bait and tackle,” he said. “Setting them up for a lifetime of memories.”

But it’s often the quieter moments that leave the biggest impression. “There is nothing more beautiful than watching the Santee sunrise while opening the park,” Thomas shared. “I get to go to my favorite spot in the park and watch the sun rise over Lake Marion.” Those early mornings serve as a daily reminder of why he chose this career.

Thomas also values the strong sense of community within the park service. Reflecting on his time at Kings Mountain, he credits the staff culture as a highlight of his early career. “The staff there cultivates a great network of support and would often gather for meals and get lunch together as a staff,” he said. “It’s a mindset that I will carry with me my whole career.”

When asked if he would encourage others to pursue a career as a park ranger, his answer is immediate. “Absolutely,” he said. “For anyone who is passionate about their community, their cultural heritage, or simply loves the outdoors, being able to truly give back to some of the most beautiful places in our state is a great honor.”

He also offers practical advice for those interested in joining the field: “You are getting ready to work with some of the most talented and professional people in our career—make sure to ask questions and always be ready to learn something new.”

While he’s not yet an Ultimate Outsider, Thomas is already making his way across the state, visiting parks whenever he can. So far, May Forest State Park stands out as a favorite—but he’s quick to add that he’s looking forward to seeing what other parks have to offer.

For Thomas Young, being a park ranger is more than a job—it’s a chance to serve, to connect people with the outdoors, and to help create lasting memories in some of South Carolina’s most treasured places.

Think you might be interested in a job with the South Carolina State Park Service? Click here to see our current full-time job openings or reach out to a park near you for part-time opportunities!