Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from National Park Service
Job overview
The Park Guide (Seasonal) role involves educating and informing visitors about natural, cultural, or historical resources in National Parks, contributing to visitor engagement and park education.
Responsibilities and impact
The Park Guide will staff visitor center information counters, answer visitor questions, present pre-established talks, guide small to large groups on walks, provide backcountry camping information, and explain park events and safety hazards.
Compensation and benefits
The job offers a federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, uniform allowance, and potential government housing; salary details are based on GS-04 or GS-05 levels with locality pay.
Experience and skills
Applicants must be U.S. citizens with background checks and valid driver's licenses; qualifications include specific combinations of general and specialized experience or relevant education in history, science, public speaking, or related fields.
Work environment and culture
The work environment includes indoor visitor centers and outdoor park areas with exposure to varying weather conditions; the role requires physical stamina and the ability to handle high visitor contact and occasional emergencies.
Company information
The National Park Service is a federal agency managing national parks and resources, providing visitor services and conservation efforts.
Job location and travel
The position is seasonal with likely duty from September to December 2025, involving work in various National Park locations with possible government housing and travel within park areas.
Application process
Applicants must submit a two-page resume detailing experience by 07/21/2025, meet citizenship and background requirements, and may need to provide transcripts if qualifying by education; application can be online or via alternate methods if needed.
Unique job features
The role includes unique opportunities to engage with the public in natural and historical settings, requires uniform compliance, and may involve money handling with higher background checks.
Company overview
The National Park Service (NPS) is a U.S. federal agency tasked with managing national parks, monuments, and other conservation and historical properties. Established in 1916, the NPS preserves the ecological and historical integrity of these sites while making them accessible for public enjoyment and education. The agency generates revenue through entrance fees, concessions, and partnerships with private entities. Key historical milestones include the establishment of Yellowstone as the first national park in 1872 and the passage of the Organic Act, which created the NPS. The NPS plays a crucial role in conservation, education, and recreation, impacting millions of visitors annually.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight experience in public speaking, visitor engagement, and knowledge of natural, cultural, or historical resources as these are central to the Park Guide role at the National Park Service.
Emphasize skills in guiding groups, providing informative talks, and handling visitor inquiries, especially any experience related to educational or interpretive programs in parks or museums.
Apply through multiple platforms including the National Park Service's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your application’s reach and visibility.
Connect with current Park Guides or employees in the visitor services division at the National Park Service on LinkedIn; ice breakers could include asking about their favorite park program or requesting advice on succeeding in the role.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords such as 'visitor engagement,' 'interpretive programs,' 'public speaking,' 'group guiding,' and 'natural and cultural resource education' to ensure your resume passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify the best job portals for submission, and find relevant LinkedIn connections, freeing you to focus on preparing for interviews and networking.
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