Park Ranger (Interpretation-Language) (Seasonal)

National Park Service • Yosemite National Park, CA

18d

About The Position

Interpretive Rangers develop and present educational programs, including guided walks and presentations, for audiences in a variety of park settings. They use research and the National Park Service thematic interpretation model to create programs and provide informal interpretation and orientation to park guests. The position also supports park operations through cashier duties and special projects, and promotes visitor safety and stewardship of park resources. Depending on grade level, duties may include leading guided tours, responding to visitor questions, and providing on-the-job training and assistance to team members.

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in varied weather, including snow, wind, rain, sun, and heat. The work involves extended periods of standing and walking over rough or uneven terrain, sometimes carrying backpacks, tools, or rescue equipment, and may involve living in close quarters with coworkers. Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed, and occupancy of government quarters may be required. The position may require wearing a uniform, operating vehicles, completing training, and working on-call or irregular hours. The appointment is seasonal and may be terminated due to funding, project needs, performance, or other considerations. Anticipated entry on duty is March through July 2027, with timing subject to change.

Applicants must be conversationally fluent in an eligible language for the park: Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Chinese, Japanese, or Korean for Craters of the Moon National Monument; Spanish or French for Yosemite National Park. The position may be filled as a temporary seasonal appointment not to exceed 1,560 hours, depending on the park and program.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males must meet the Selective Service Registration Act requirement.
• Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
• Must be at least 18 years old, or meet the specified conditions for employment at age 16 or 17.
• Must be conversationally fluent in at least one language required for the park and document fluency in the resume.
• GS-5 qualification requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4, a four-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours of related coursework, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
• GS-7 qualification requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-5, one full academic year of related graduate education, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Applicants claiming experience must submit a resume of no more than two single-sided pages that clearly states duties, employment dates, and hours worked.
• Must provide transcripts if qualifying based on education; official transcripts are required before work begins if selected.
• May be required to operate a government or private motor vehicle for official duties; a valid driver's license is required in such cases, and operators of government vehicles must be at least 18.
• May be required to complete training, including training to operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
• May be required to wear a uniform and comply with National Park Service uniform standards.

Nice To Haves

• Money-handling experience is a preference for optional consideration.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present programs such as guided walks, illustrated talks, amphitheater and campfire programs, and demonstrations.
• Research topics and use the National Park Service thematic interpretation model and creative delivery techniques to develop programs.
• Provide informal interpretation and orientation for park guests in visitor centers, ranger stations, and while roving in the field.
• Perform cashier duties and assist with special projects supporting park goals.
• Promote visitor safety and stewardship of park resources in interactions with visitors, and potentially serve as an initial contact for accident reporting and emergency assistance.
• At the GS-5 level, present informal and formal talks, lead guided tours, and respond to visitor inquiries for information, direction, and guidance.
• At the GS-7 level, perform GS-5 duties and provide on-the-job training and assistance to team members.

Benefits

• Uniform allowance
• Federal employee benefits package; specific benefit eligibility depends on position type and must be confirmed with the hiring agency

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level