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National Park Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Park Service

Park Ranger (PSAR)

Carlsbad, NM · On-site +1

$40K - $52K/yr

The employees of the National Park Service care for special places that are the heritage of all Americans. Since its inception in 1916, the National Park Service has been dedicated to the ...

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$29.5K

$79.1K

$129.5K

How much do national park jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for national park in the United States is $79,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by National Park Rangers, and how can applicants prepare for them?

National Park Rangers often face challenges such as working in remote locations, handling unpredictable weather, and interacting with large groups of visitors with varying needs. Rangers are also responsible for enforcing park regulations, responding to emergencies, and collaborating with other agencies. To prepare, applicants should develop strong communication, problem-solving, and outdoor skills, as well as become familiar with conservation principles and first aid procedures.

Is it hard to get a national park job?

Getting a national park job can be competitive, especially for seasonal or entry-level positions, as many applicants apply for limited openings. Relevant skills include customer service, outdoor work experience, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid; having these can improve chances of hiring.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Park Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a National Park Ranger, you need a background in environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, radio communication systems, and certifications such as first aid or law enforcement are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to public service help rangers effectively educate visitors and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the protection of park resources, visitor safety, and positive public engagement in diverse outdoor environments.

What is the difference between National Park vs Park Ranger?

AspectNational ParkPark Ranger
Primary RoleDesignating, managing, and protecting large natural areas for conservation and public enjoymentEnforcing park rules, guiding visitors, and maintaining park facilities
Required CredentialsEnvironmental or conservation degrees often preferredPark-specific training, certifications, and sometimes law enforcement credentials
Work EnvironmentLarge outdoor areas, often remote or protected landsOn-site within parks, interacting with visitors and staff
Industry UsageUsed to describe the protected area itselfRefers to the personnel working within parks

While a National Park is a protected area designated for conservation and recreation, a Park Ranger is a professional who manages and maintains these parks, ensuring safety, preservation, and visitor engagement. Both are integral to the conservation industry but serve different functions within the same ecosystem.

What is a national park?

National Parks are protected areas of land managed by the government, established to preserve natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage for public enjoyment and education. They offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing, while also conserving ecosystems and biodiversity. National Parks play a crucial role in environmental protection and provide spaces for scientific research and outdoor activities.

What jobs work in national parks?

Jobs in national parks include park rangers, maintenance workers, interpretive guides, environmental scientists, and administrative staff. These roles often require knowledge of conservation, customer service skills, and sometimes specialized certifications or training. Employees work outdoors in various weather conditions and may have seasonal or year-round schedules.
More about National Park jobs
What cities are hiring for National Park jobs? Cities with the most National Park job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Park jobs? The most popular types of Park jobs are:
What states have the most National Park jobs? States with the most job openings for National Park jobs include:
National Park jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Park job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,083 per year, or $38 per hour.

National Park Store Associate

Jefferson National Parks

Medora, ND • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

National Park Store Associate

Pay begins at $18.00 per hour.

About the Position

We are seeking a friendly, reliable, and service-minded individual to support park store operations inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park visitor center facilities.

National Park Store Associates welcome visitors, assist with park store purchases, connect them with meaningful books, maps, gifts, educational items, and keepsakes, and help visitors understand how their purchases support the national park.

This position is a good fit for someone who enjoys working with people, values national parks and public lands, and wants to help visitors have a positive and memorable experience.

Key Responsibilities

The National Park Store Associate will:

  • Welcome visitors to the national park visitor center in a warm, helpful, and professional manner.
  • Operate the park store point-of-sale system and handle transactions accurately.
  • Help visitors find books, maps, gifts, apparel, educational items, and keepsakes related to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
  • Become familiar with basic park and area information in order to help orient visitors.
  • Keep merchandise areas clean, organized, stocked, and visitor-ready.
  • Assist with receiving, pricing, labeling, stocking, and displaying merchandise.
  • Stay helpful, accurate, and professional during busy periods and high visitor volume.
  • Support smooth store operations during weekends, holidays, special events, and peak visitation periods.
  • Work cooperatively with store staff, National Park Service staff, and other park partners.
Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who are:

  • Friendly, dependable, punctual, and comfortable working with the public.
  • Interested in national parks, public lands, history, conservation, education, or visitor service.
  • Committed to excellent customer service.
  • Able to maintain composure, accuracy, and good judgment in a busy visitor center setting.
  • Responsible when handling sales transactions, currency, and basic math.
  • Comfortable using basic technology or willing to learn.
  • Able to stand for extended periods and lift boxes or merchandise as needed.
  • Organized, flexible, respectful, and willing to help where needed.

Previous retail, customer service, hospitality, bookstore, museum, visitor center, or park experience is helpful but not required.

Schedule

We are hiring for a full-time year-round position. Weekend and holiday availability may be required. Exact start date, weekly hours, and schedule will be discussed during the hiring process.

Why This Work Matters

The park store helps visitors continue learning about Theodore Roosevelt National Park long after their visit. Revenue from park store purchases supports education, interpretation, visitor services, and other park-related needs.

In this role, you will help visitors have a great experience while supporting Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit an application and resume on our employment page at www.jnpa.com.