Park Ranger (Interpretation-Language) (Seasonal)

National Park Service • New Castle, DE

21d

About The Position

Interpretive Rangers develop and present educational programs, including guided walks and presentations, for audiences in a variety of park settings. The role connects visitors with parks through interpretive and educational programming, helps them plan safe and meaningful park experiences, and encourages stewardship of park resources. The position requires conversational fluency in Spanish in addition to the standard interpretation qualifications. The likely entry-on-duty period is March–September 2027.

This is a seasonal National Park Service position at the GS-05 grade level. Depending on the park and program, the appointment may be temporary and not to exceed 1,560 hours rather than 1,039 hours. Employment may end at any time because of funding, project needs, performance, or other considerations. Occupancy of government quarters may be required; housing may be available but is not guaranteed.

Requirements

• Conversational fluency in Spanish.
• Meet one of the GS-05 qualification paths: one year of specialized experience equivalent to 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 must provide knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position; examples include park guide or tour leader, environmental educator or teacher, law enforcement or investigative work, preservation research, park or conservation-area forestry or fire management, and related policy or program work.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males must meet the Selective Service registration requirement.
• Applicants must be at least 18, or meet the stated eligibility conditions for applicants age 16 or 17.
• A valid driver's license is required if operating a government or private motor vehicle is part of official duties; operators of government vehicles must be at least 18.
• Must submit a resume of no more than two single-sided pages that documents duties, employment dates, and hours worked; only the resume submitted in the designated Resume section will be reviewed.
• If qualifying based on education, submit legible transcripts; official transcripts are required before starting if selected and education was used to qualify.
• Foreign education used to qualify must be evaluated as equivalent to U.S. accredited education or receive full credit from a U.S. accredited institution.
• Must participate in direct deposit electronic funds transfer.
• May be required to complete training, operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle, obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority, and wear a uniform in accordance with NPS standards.
• May be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and/or shifts.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present programs such as guided walks, illustrated talks, amphitheater and campfire programs, and demonstrations.
• Develop 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 reports and emergency assistance.
• Present informal and formal talks, lead guided tours, and respond to visitors’ requests for information, directions, and guidance.

Benefits

• A uniform allowance is provided.
• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific eligibility depends on position type and other factors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level