New Hampshire Conservation Corps - Interpretive Ranger

Student Conservation Association • Concord, NH

23d • Onsite

About The Position

This program has been branded the Discover the Power of Parks (DPP). The
programs' objectives are to connect participants with nature and build their
appreciation for New Hampshire's unmatched natural heritage. In this position,
you will have the chance to live in one or more state parks, where you will
connect with park patrons through fun and engaging programs and visitor service
activities.

Requirements

• Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States
• Being at least 18 years or older
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent or actively working to complete
• Being willing to undergo a National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender, and FBI checks conducted after the position is offered.
• Must be 21 years of age or older with a current driver's license for at least 3 years
• A reliable personal vehicle for the duration of the service term
• Need a personal computer for the duration of the program
• Have not completed more than two or the equivalent of two 1700-hour AmeriCorps service terms, earning the equivalent of two full-time education awards or served more than four service terms of any length
• Must commit to completing the entire 6-month program
• Passion and enthusiasm for the outdoors, ecology, environmental conservation, and/or local cultural and indigenous history
• Strong time management skills
• Ability to work independently as well as a member of a team
• Experience with public speaking
• Willingness to create hands on activities and programs for kids and adults
• Ability to adapt to programmatic changes daily
• Willingness to live in an intentional residential community and by yourself during the service term

Responsibilities

• Program delivery – teach or lead programs for school classes, afterschool programs, community groups, and state park visitors
• Program development – researching and designing programs for kids, adults, and multi-age groups
• Visitor services – answer patron’s questions, keep them informed of park policies, and ensure they enjoy their visit
• Program reporting and evaluation
• Public speaking
• Able to hike five or more miles daily when delivering programs or visitor services
• Ability to use a computer for word processing, emailing, and internet research
• Serving in adverse weather conditions
• Program delivery (40%): You will spend most of your time delivering programs. The number of programs you deliver each week depends on your specific park and the Fall outreach schedule. Generally, the summer is the busiest season with programs and visitor services happening at NH State Parks. The Spring/Fall outreach schedule is slightly different – programs will take place at schools and other community organizations in communities adjacent to your current location.
• Developing, researching, and creating new programs, as well as preparation for programs (30%): This is the “behind the scenes” work that goes into creating a successful program. This includes typing program outlines and lesson plans, adapting existing curriculum for your needs, creating new program content, and researching topics to expand your knowledge on local ecosystems, natural and cultural history, and best practices in outdoor recreation. You will also need to ensure you have all the supplies and props necessary for these programs. This can involve using existing tools or materials (pond nets, animal skulls and pelts, outdoor survival tools, etc.) or creating new materials – preparing craft or project supplies.
• Visitor services (15%): In addition to delivering your programs, you will also need to engage with guests during your non-program time. This may include “roving” or hiking trails to engage with guests and encourage LNT and hiker safety, visiting campsites to promote your programs, and answering any other questions visitors have. This may seem like a small task but giving hiking recommendations, sharing the best times and places to spot wildlife, or even giving local restaurant reviews can have a positive impact on a visitor’s experience.
• Reporting and other duties as assigned (15%): Interpretive Rangers complete weekly reporting that includes the number of program participants and park patrons engaged and a self-evaluation of the service week. Other assignments include writing blogs for NH State Parks, specific programmatic research, and taking pictures to showcase your experience. Rangers are also tasked with participating in staff meetings and related park duties.

Benefits

• Living Allowance $7,200 total - $600 paid biweekly
• AmeriCorps Education Award, upon successful completion of the -hour 24-week service term - $3,697.50
• Housing is provided – estimated value is $2,857
• All food is provided – estimated value is $1,210
• Certified Interpretive Guide training – $400
• Leave No Trace - Trainer Certification (level 1) – $150
• NH State Park Pass for day use during the 2026 season

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees