Seasonal National Park Employee Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of nature and conservation, the spotlight on seasonal national park employees has never been more important.
As the seasons change, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, preserve, and enhance our national parks escalates.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a seasonal national park employee?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
- A hiring manager crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
- Or simply curious about the inner workings of national park operations,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable seasonal national park employee job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Seasonal National Park Employee Duties and Responsibilities
Seasonal National Park Employees perform a range of tasks related to maintaining the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of national parks.
Their work varies greatly depending on the season, the specific park, and the needs of park visitors.
A Seasonal National Park Employee’s daily duties and responsibilities include:
- Assisting park visitors with information and directions
- Maintaining park grounds, including picking up litter, maintaining trails, and cleaning facilities
- Supporting the implementation of park rules to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife
- Participating in wildlife management projects and conservation efforts
- Assisting with emergency response efforts such as search and rescue operations
- Conducting guided tours and educational programs for visitors
- Performing maintenance tasks such as clearing brush, maintaining trails, and repairing structures
- Collecting fees for park entry, camping, and other services
Seasonal National Park Employee Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an enthusiastic and reliable Seasonal National Park Employee to assist with operations during our busiest periods.
The ideal candidate will be passionate about conservation and the outdoors, with excellent customer service skills.
The Seasonal National Park Employee is responsible for a range of tasks including maintenance, wildlife management, visitor services and educational programs.
They will work under the direction of park rangers and other permanent staff to ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for visitors.
Responsibilities
- Perform park maintenance tasks such as cleaning, landscaping, and trail repair
- Assist with wildlife management and conservation efforts
- Provide information and assistance to park visitors
- Help organize and execute educational programs and events
- Enforce park rules and regulations to ensure visitor safety
- Perform administrative duties such as ticket sales and record keeping
- Assist with emergency response efforts as required
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience in customer service or outdoor work is an advantage
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Passion for conservation and the outdoors
- First aid certification is a plus
- Willingness to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Opportunity to work in a beautiful outdoor setting
- Training and development opportunities
- Free park access
Additional Information
- Job Title: Seasonal National Park Employee
- Work Environment: Outdoor setting in a national park. Work may involve exposure to various weather conditions and wildlife.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Park Ranger or Park Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as budget considerations.
- Pay Range: $12 – $18 per hour
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time, Seasonal
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. 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 Seasonal National Park Employee Do?
Seasonal National Park Employees are typically hired during the peak tourist seasons to assist with the influx of visitors and ensure the smooth operation of the park.
They perform a variety of tasks depending on their specific role within the park.
Some may work as guides, leading tours and educating visitors about the park’s history, flora, and fauna.
They provide valuable information to visitors, answer questions and ensure visitor safety.
Others may be responsible for maintenance tasks such as trail repair, cleaning restrooms, trash removal, and upkeep of camping and picnic areas.
They ensure the park remains clean and well-maintained for all visitors.
Seasonal National Park Employees may also work in visitor centers, providing customer service, selling tickets or merchandise, and providing general information about the park.
They often serve as the first point of contact for visitors, helping to create a positive experience.
In all cases, they play an integral role in conserving the natural beauty of the park and making sure visitors adhere to park rules and regulations.
Seasonal National Park Employee Qualifications and Skills
Seasonal National Park Employees should have a combination of skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:
- Passionate about environmental conservation and outdoor recreational activities.
- Excellent interpersonal skills to interact with park visitors, providing information and assistance as needed.
- Strong knowledge of the park, including trails, camping areas, and potential hazards.
- First aid skills and emergency response knowledge to assist in case of accidents or other emergencies within the park.
- Physical fitness and endurance to be capable of long hours of walking, hiking or standing, and potentially heavy lifting.
- Good organizational skills to manage tasks like maintaining trails, cleaning facilities, controlling invasive plant species, and collecting fees.
- Customer service skills for interacting with guests, answering questions, handling complaints, and making their visit enjoyable.
- Communication skills to effectively relay information to park visitors about safety rules and park regulations.
Seasonal National Park Employee Experience Requirements
Seasonal National Park Employees often come from a variety of backgrounds.
However, most have some experience or education in fields like biology, environmental science, forestry, or park and recreation management.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through a volunteer role, internship, or part-time position in a park or recreational facility.
These individuals may have gained experience in roles such as Park Ranger, Volunteer Coordinator, Wildlife Technician or other related roles.
Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed more specialized skills.
They could have experience in more specific roles such as Firefighter, EMT, Wildlife Biologist, or Conservation Scientist.
Some may have experience in leading tours, running educational programs, or managing facilities.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience likely have leadership experience.
They could have managed teams of volunteers or seasonal employees, overseen large-scale conservation projects, or have been responsible for the day-to-day operations of a park or recreational facility.
This level of experience may prepare them for managerial roles within the National Park Service.
Regardless of the number of years, all candidates should have a passion for nature, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in diverse outdoor settings.
Seasonal National Park Employee Education and Training Requirements
Seasonal National Park Employees typically have a high school diploma or equivalent education.
However, a degree in a field related to natural sciences or park and recreation management can be beneficial.
They are required to have a strong understanding of the natural environment and wildlife.
Knowledge about environmental conservation, ecological systems, and historical preservation would be advantageous.
Some positions, especially those involving specific duties such as wildlife management or environmental education, may require additional training or certifications.
Candidates may need to complete a park ranger training program or a similar course in a related field.
Seasonal National Park Employees may also need to possess certain physical skills such as the ability to hike long distances or perform physical tasks as they might have to work in challenging outdoor conditions.
It’s also crucial for these employees to have good interpersonal skills as they often interact with park visitors, providing information and ensuring compliance with park regulations.
While not mandatory, having a CPR or first aid certification is highly recommended given the nature of the work.
Experience in volunteer work, such as with conservation corps or youth groups, can provide valuable hands-on experience and is often highly regarded by employers.
Continuous learning about environmental policies, conservation methods, and wildlife studies may enhance a candidate’s job prospects and show a dedication to the field.
Seasonal National Park Employee Salary Expectations
A Seasonal National Park Employee can expect to earn an average wage of $14.77 (USD) per hour.
However, this wage can vary depending on the specific duties of the role, the location of the park, and the amount of experience the employee has in the field.
Seasonal National Park Employee Job Description FAQs
What qualifications does a Seasonal National Park Employee need?
While a degree is not necessary, a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field can be beneficial.
Candidates should preferably have a valid driver’s license, First Aid and CPR certification.
Prior experience in outdoor recreation or customer service can be advantageous.
What are the daily responsibilities of a Seasonal National Park Employee?
A Seasonal National Park Employee may perform a range of duties depending on the specific role and the park’s needs.
Typical tasks include maintenance of trails and facilities, providing visitor services, conducting educational programs, enforcing park rules, and assisting in emergency response and rescue operations.
What qualities make a good Seasonal National Park Employee?
A good Seasonal National Park Employee should have a strong commitment to conservation and a love for the outdoors.
They should be physically fit to handle the demands of outdoor work in various weather conditions.
Good communication and interpersonal skills are crucial to interact effectively with visitors.
Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are also important.
What should you look for in a Seasonal National Park Employee’s resume?
Look for evidence of a commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation, such as volunteer work with environmental organizations or participation in outdoor activities.
Experience in customer service roles can also be a good sign, as these employees often interact with park visitors.
Certifications in First Aid, CPR, or other relevant skills should also be highlighted.
What challenges can a Seasonal National Park Employee face?
The work can be physically demanding and often involves working in adverse weather conditions.
Seasonal National Park Employees also often have to deal with difficult situations, such as enforcing park rules or responding to emergencies.
The seasonal nature of the work can also be a challenge, with periods of intense activity followed by periods of unemployment.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve taken you on an adventure, exploring the depth and breadth of what it truly means to be a seasonal national park employee.
But guess what?
It’s not just about maintaining trails or guiding tours.
It’s about nurturing the natural wonders of our nation, one season at a time.
With our comprehensive seasonal national park employee job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set for your next adventure.
But why halt your journey here?
Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your roadmap to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.
Remember:
Every task you perform as a seasonal national park employee is part of a larger mission.
Let’s preserve our natural heritage. Together.
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