Working in a national park means living and working in some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. It is often a lifestyle choice, combining a passion for the outdoors with public service. The experience provides immersion in nature, a chance to help preserve natural and cultural resources, and opportunities to connect with visitors. This path is open to students seeking summer work and individuals pursuing a long-term career.
Understanding the Types of Park Jobs
A wide array of employment opportunities is available within national parks, catering to different skills and career goals. Visitor Services roles are often the most visible, including park rangers who lead tours, provide educational programs, and ensure visitor safety. Hospitality positions are also numerous, with jobs like front desk clerks, food service workers, and gift shop employees who cater to park guests. Behind the scenes, Maintenance teams handle the upkeep of park facilities, while Resource Management offers positions for biologists and conservation specialists. These roles can be seasonal, a common entry point, or permanent year-round jobs that offer a stable career path.
Who Does the Hiring in National Parks
Two main types of employers operate within national parks. The first is the National Park Service (NPS), a federal agency responsible for managing the parks. Working for the NPS means becoming a federal employee, a path that involves a structured application process and specific qualification requirements. These roles range from law enforcement and interpretive rangers to scientists and administrative staff.
The second type of employer consists of private companies known as concessionaires. These businesses are contracted by the NPS to provide visitor services such as lodging, food, and retail. Major concessionaires like Xanterra, Delaware North, and Aramark hire thousands of employees each season. The application process for these jobs is more direct than for federal positions and is often geared toward hospitality roles.
Where to Find Job Openings
Federal and private-sector jobs are listed on different platforms. All National Park Service positions, from seasonal to permanent, are posted exclusively on USAJOBS.gov, the official employment site of the U.S. federal government. For concessionaire jobs in hospitality or guest services, the search is more varied. A valuable resource is CoolWorks.com, a job board specializing in seasonal work in locations that include many national parks. Visiting the career pages of major concessionaire companies like Xanterra, Delaware North, and Vail Resorts is also an effective way to find and apply for jobs in park lodges, restaurants, and stores.
Common Requirements and Qualifications
Requirements for working in a national park vary by employer and role. For nearly all positions, applicants must be at least 18 years old. National Park Service jobs require U.S. citizenship, a standard for federal employment. Specialized NPS roles, such as those in biology or archaeology, often require a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. In contrast, many seasonal concessionaire jobs prioritize customer service skills and a willingness to learn over formal educational requirements.
Navigating the Application Process
The application process differs substantially between federal and private-sector employers.
Applying for Federal Jobs
For positions with the National Park Service, the application must be submitted through USAJOBS.gov. The process is detailed and lengthy, requiring a comprehensive federal resume that meticulously outlines relevant experience. After submission, applications are graded, and candidates are ranked based on their answers to an occupational questionnaire and documented experience. The federal hiring process can take several months from submission to a final decision.
Applying for Concessionaire Jobs
The application process for concessionaire positions is more straightforward. These jobs are found on company websites or job boards like CoolWorks.com, where applicants submit a standard resume and complete an online form. The interview process often involves a phone or video call with a human resources representative, followed by an interview with a hiring manager. This process is usually much faster, with job offers sometimes extended within a few weeks.
Volunteering as a Pathway
Volunteering is a valuable pathway for gaining experience and making connections. The official Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) Program allows individuals to support the National Park Service’s mission. Opportunities are diverse, ranging from trail maintenance and visitor services to archival work, and can be found on Volunteer.gov.
This participation provides hands-on experience relevant to park operations, strengthening a future job application. It also allows individuals to build a professional network with park staff. Committing to a volunteer role demonstrates a genuine interest in the park’s preservation and can provide a competitive edge when applying for a paid job.
What to Expect from Life in a Park
Life in a national park has unique benefits and challenges. Employee housing is a significant aspect of park life and is often provided for seasonal workers. This housing is frequently shared, dorm-style living, which fosters a strong sense of community but also means less privacy. The quality of housing can vary, and amenities like Wi-Fi or cell service may be limited.
The remote nature of many parks means employees live in isolated locations. This provides unparalleled access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and the tranquility of nature. It also requires careful planning for things like grocery shopping and errands. The tight-knit community of park employees often becomes a central part of the social experience, with shared interests and a collective appreciation for the unique environment.