Park Ranger (Interpretation)(Temporary)-FUL

National Park Service • Volcano, HI

9d • Onsite

About The Position

Interpretive Rangers develop and present educational programs, including guided walks and presentations, for audiences in a variety of park settings. This temporary position is expected to last one year and may be extended up to a maximum of two years based on agency needs and potential funding. Anticipated entry on duty is November–December 2026.

Park Ranger-Interpreters connect people to parks and help visitors have meaningful, satisfying, and safe experiences. They help visitors decide how to spend their time in the park, introduce visitors to the park’s meanings and values through varied perspectives, and promote stewardship of park resources through interpretive and educational programs.

The position is being filled under the Field Unit Local Hiring Authority. Applicants must reside within 50 miles of Volcano, Hawaii, when applying, and must provide proof of residency. The position may require occupancy of government quarters; housing may be available but is not guaranteed. Employment may be terminated at any time because of funding fluctuations, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.

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 reside within 50 miles of Volcano, Hawaii, at the time of application and provide proof of residency.
• To qualify at GS-5, applicants must have one year of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-04; 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.
• Specialized experience may include park guiding or tour leadership, environmental education or teaching, law enforcement or investigative work, historic preservation research, forestry or fire management, or related park, recreation, conservation, or resource-management work.
• Applicants relying on education must provide a legible transcript from an accredited institution. Foreign education must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency or course credit.
• Must be at least 18 years old to operate government vehicles. To be eligible for employment, must be at least 18, or meet one of the listed eligibility conditions for applicants age 16 or 17.
• A valid driver’s license is required if operating a government or private motor vehicle as part of official duties.
• May be required to complete training, operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and 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.
• Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program if selected.
• Resume must not exceed two single-sided pages and must document duties, employment dates, and hours worked; only one resume may be submitted.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present programs such as guided walks, illustrated talks, amphitheater and campfire programs, and demonstrations.
• Develop interpretive programs using the NPS thematic interpretation model, including topic research and creative use of delivery techniques.
• 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 that support park goals.
• Promote visitor safety and stewardship of park resources in interactions with visitors.
• Potentially serve as the 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 requests for information, direction, and guidance.

Benefits

• A uniform allowance will be provided.
• A cost-of-living allowance (COLA) rate of 8.64% is authorized; the announcement states that the salary includes locality pay but not the additional COLA.
• Federal employees and their families have access to a range of benefits, subject to position type and eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level