Park Ranger (Interpretation) (Seasonal)

National Park Service • Dover, DE

21h • Onsite

About The Position

Interpretive Rangers develop and present educational programs, including guided walks, illustrated talks, amphitheater and campfire programs, and demonstrations. They work with audiences in a variety of park settings, using research and creative delivery techniques guided by the National Park Service thematic interpretation model. Rangers provide informal interpretation and orientation in visitor centers, ranger stations, and while roving in the field. They may perform cashier duties and assist with special projects that support park goals, while promoting visitor safety and stewardship of park resources. The position may also involve serving as an initial contact for accident reports and requests for emergency assistance.

At GS-5, duties include presenting informal and formal talks, leading guided tours, and responding to visitor inquiries for information, direction, and guidance. At GS-7, the employee also provides on-the-job training and assistance to team members.

This is a seasonal position at Niobrara National Scenic River. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period is March through September, though timing may vary with weather, project needs, or funding. Anticipated entry on duty is March through July 2027. Employment may be terminated due to funding, project needs, performance, or other considerations. The position may be filled as a temporary seasonal appointment not to exceed 1,560 hours, depending on the park and program.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the stated age requirements. Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication. Government quarters may be required; housing may be available but is not guaranteed. The employee may need to wear a uniform, complete training, operate vehicles, and obtain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority. A valid driver's license is required when operating a government or private motor vehicle as part of official duties.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Must be at least 18 years old, or at least 16 and meet one of the listed education, training, or student-work conditions.
• Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males must meet Selective Service registration requirements.
• Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
• May be required to occupy government quarters.
• May be required to wear a uniform and comply with National Park Service uniform standards.
• May be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and/or shifts.
• May be required to complete training and operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
• A valid driver's license is required when operating a government or private motor vehicle for official duties; must be at least 18 to operate government vehicles.
• May be required to complete training and obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
• For GS-5, qualify through one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4, a qualifying bachelor's-degree course of study with 24 semester hours of related coursework, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
• For GS-7, qualify through 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.
• Submit a resume no longer than two single-sided pages, with duties, employment dates, and hours worked documented; only the resume submitted in the designated resume section will be used for qualification and rating.
• If qualifying based on education, submit legible transcripts; official transcripts are required before work begins if selected.
• Foreign education used to qualify must be evaluated as equivalent to accredited U.S. education or receive full credit from an accredited U.S. institution.

Nice To Haves

• Money-handling experience is preferred for optional consideration; money handling requires a higher background check.
• Qualifying experience may include park guiding or tour leading, environmental education, law enforcement or investigative work, archaeological or historical preservation research, forestry or fire management, park or recreation work, or related resource-management work.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present educational programs, including 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 to 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.
• At the GS-7 level, provide on-the-job training and assistance to team members.

Benefits

• A uniform allowance will be provided.
• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific eligibility depends on position type and agency information.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level