National Park Service Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vast expanse of America’s wilderness, the role of National Park Service Officers has never been more crucial.

As environmental challenges grow, and with each new generation, the demand for dedicated individuals who can preserve, enhance, and secure our nation’s natural treasures rises.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a National Park Service Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager determining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the vital duties of National Park Service Officers,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable National Park Service Officer job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

National Park Service Officer Duties and Responsibilities

National Park Service Officers play a vital role in preserving the natural and cultural resources of our national parks while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of park visitors.

Their roles are diverse, encompassing law enforcement, emergency response, wildlife protection, and public education.

The duties and responsibilities of a National Park Service Officer include:

• Enforcing park rules and regulations to ensure the safety of visitors and the protection of natural and cultural resources
• Providing information and guidance to park visitors regarding park amenities, trails, and wildlife
• Responding to emergencies within the park, including medical incidents, wildfires, and other natural or manmade disasters
• Patrolling park areas by foot, vehicle, boat, or aircraft to ensure visitor compliance with park rules
• Investigating incidents or crimes within the park and preparing detailed reports
• Participating in search and rescue missions
• Conducting wildlife management activities, including tracking, tranquilizing, and relocating wildlife when necessary
• Conducting educational programs for park visitors about conservation and park history
• Maintaining park facilities and trails, including cleaning, repairing, and performing routine maintenance
• Assisting in the management of natural and cultural resource projects such as forest regeneration, historic structure preservation, and invasive species control

 

National Park Service Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated National Park Service Officer to preserve and protect our national parks, while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of park visitors.

The officer will be responsible for patrolling park grounds, enforcing regulations, providing visitor assistance, and participating in conservation efforts.

Our ideal candidate has a deep respect for nature and wildlife, is physically fit, and has strong interpersonal skills to interact positively with park visitors.

 

Responsibilities

• Patrolling park areas and ensuring visitor compliance with park rules and regulations
• Providing information and assistance to park visitors
• Participating in conservation efforts, including maintaining trails, controlling invasive species, and assisting with wildlife management
• Responding to emergencies and providing first aid
• Conducting educational programs and guided tours for park visitors
• Assisting with research projects related to park resources
• Performing maintenance tasks such as cleaning facilities and clearing trails
• Documenting incidents and maintaining daily activity logs

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field is a plus
• Previous experience in law enforcement or park management is advantageous
• Certification in first aid and CPR
• Physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong knowledge of natural resources and conservation practices
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Training and development opportunities
• Uniform allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: National Park Service Officer
• Work Environment: Outdoors, in various weather conditions. This role includes physical activities such as hiking and lifting, and may involve responding to emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Park Superintendent or Park Ranger Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a National Park Service Officer Do?

National Park Service Officers, also known as Park Rangers, work for the National Park Service, a federal agency within the United States Department of the Interior.

They are responsible for the conservation and use of federal park resources.

These officers patrol park areas, enforcing laws and regulations to ensure the safety and preservation of natural and cultural resources.

This includes preventing forest fires, vandalism, and theft of artifacts.

They also conduct guided tours, provide information and assistance to visitors, and educate the public about the significance of natural and historical resources.

National Park Service Officers also perform emergency duties.

They are trained to respond to a range of emergencies, including medical issues, fires, and search and rescue operations.

In some cases, they may be involved in scientific studies and research within the park.

They contribute to the understanding of natural and cultural resources by collecting and analyzing data.

Overall, the role of a National Park Service Officer is multifaceted, combining law enforcement, public education, and conservation to protect and preserve national parks for present and future generations.

 

National Park Service Officer Qualifications and Skills

National Park Service Officers work to protect, preserve and enhance our national parks and monuments.

The skills and qualifications that align with this job role include:

• Knowledge of environmental science and conservation principles to understand, explain and protect the natural resources within the park.
• Physical fitness and outdoor survival skills to handle various terrains, weather conditions and potential wilderness emergencies.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with park visitors, providing information and guidance, and ensuring their safety and enjoyment.
• Communication skills to effectively relay information about park rules, safety guidelines, and educational facts about the park’s wildlife, ecosystem, and history.
• Emergency response skills to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies within the park, including medical emergencies, fires, and wildlife encounters.
• Conflict resolution skills to enforce park rules and regulations, often mediating disputes or dealing with non-compliance.
• Customer service skills to assist with visitor inquiries, provide directions and recommendations, and resolve complaints.
• Ability to work independently and in a team, often coordinating with other park staff, local law enforcement, and conservation agencies.

 

National Park Service Officer Experience Requirements

The journey to becoming a National Park Service Officer generally begins with a bachelor’s degree in a field like Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Some park service agencies may also consider applicants with an associate degree or high school diploma, although they generally need a significant amount of related work experience.

Entry-level National Park Service Officer candidates typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles in outdoor leadership, conservation, or related areas.

Some candidates may also gain valuable experience by volunteering with conservation organizations or participating in outdoor education programs.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of park operations, wildlife management, and public safety regulations.

They are usually experienced in dealing with a diverse range of situations – from enforcing park rules and regulations, conducting wildlife management activities, to providing first aid and emergency services.

Those with more than 5 years of experience and a proven track record of leadership could be considered for supervisory roles within the National Park Service.

These roles often require the ability to manage teams, oversee park operations, and coordinate with other agencies for the preservation and protection of our national parks.

In addition to these, officers must meet physical requirements and complete a law enforcement training program.

Continuing education in the form of workshops and courses is also encouraged to keep up with evolving best practices in conservation and park management.

 

National Park Service Officer Education and Training Requirements

National Park Service Officers typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent education to qualify for entry-level positions.

However, many positions may require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to natural sciences, wildlife management, forestry, or criminal justice.

Many officers gain experience through internships or volunteer programs within the National Park Service or other similar organizations.

They receive on-the-job training and develop practical skills in law enforcement, emergency response, wildlife protection, and park operations.

Specific training programs are also essential for this role, including the Seasonal Law Enforcement Training Program (SLETP) for those involved in law enforcement.

This program provides knowledge about federal laws, park regulations, first aid, and emergency response procedures.

In addition to educational requirements, National Park Service Officers must also pass a physical fitness test and a background check.

They should also have a valid driver’s license.

Although not required, some officers choose to obtain certifications in areas such as wildland firefighting, search and rescue, or emergency medical services to enhance their skill set and increase their career opportunities.

Continued professional development and learning are encouraged in this role to stay updated with the latest conservation strategies, technological advancements, and environmental policies.

 

National Park Service Officer Salary Expectations

A National Park Service Officer earns an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income may fluctuate based on factors such as tenure, specific role within the National Park Service, regional cost of living, and the particular park in which they serve.

 

National Park Service Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a National Park Service Officer need?

National Park Service Officers need to have a range of skills including good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with visitors and co-workers.

They need strong problem-solving skills to manage and handle any issues that may arise in the park.

Physical fitness is also important as the job may involve patrolling large areas on foot or by vehicle.

Knowledge about natural and historical resources can also be advantageous.

 

Do National Park Service Officers need a degree?

While not always required, many National Park Service Officers have a degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, biology, or park and recreation management.

Some positions may require specific qualifications such as a law enforcement or emergency medical certification.

All National Park Service Officers must pass a background check and physical fitness test.

 

What should you look for in a National Park Service Officer resume?

A National Park Service Officer’s resume should highlight experience in outdoor leadership, park management, or environmental education.

Previous law enforcement or military experience can be advantageous.

Qualifications such as a law enforcement commission, first aid certification, or a degree in a relevant field should also be noted.

 

What qualities make a good National Park Service Officer?

A good National Park Service Officer should have a passion for conservation and the outdoors.

They should be physically fit, able to handle challenging situations, and have excellent problem-solving skills.

Good communication skills are also important for interacting with park visitors and co-workers.

They should also be dedicated to the mission of the National Park Service, which is to preserve natural and cultural resources for future generations.

 

Is it difficult to hire National Park Service Officers?

Hiring National Park Service Officers can be challenging due to the unique skill set and qualifications required for the job.

It can be particularly difficult to find candidates with the right balance of law enforcement experience and passion for conservation.

Additionally, the physical demands and remote locations of many National Park Service jobs can limit the pool of interested candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken an in-depth look at what it truly means to be a National Park Service Officer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about patrolling parks.

It’s about conserving the natural wonders, one park at a time.

With our comprehensive National Park Service Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulous listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every park is a part of our national heritage.

Let’s preserve that heritage. Together.

How to Become a National Park Service Officer (Complete Guide)

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