Flat Hat Aspirations

Ever wondered what it's like to be a National Park Ranger? Well I can tell you first hand it is by far the most incredible and rewarding job there is... Imagine what it’s like to wake up every morning in some of the most wild and amazing places in the world. Well you don’t have to imagine what it’s like … be active and make that dream come true. But where do you start?

I’ve compiled this information about the hiring system and tips for applying for jobs within the National Park Service … it may not be perfect but hey, at least it’s something!

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The Dream Job

When you were a kid, did you dream of being a park ranger – or do you just think the hat is cool (it’s ok, we do too!)

Do you enjoy being outside? Or, are you a history buff?

Want to have the best stories from “What I did on my summer internship?” Want your work to be lasting and meaningful?

Looking for a career change to work alongside the most dedicated, passionate people you’ll ever meet?

Welcome to the National Park Service! The NPS offers opportunities to work in 394 national parks and in partnership with communities across the country to preserve their history and create places for outdoor fun.

Since its founding in 1916, the National Park Service has been dedicated to the preservation and management of the country’s outstanding natural, historical and recreational resources. Today, the NPS encompasses more than 391 sites across the United States and in Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Every year, millions of people visit our beloved national park areas. To meet the needs of visitors and help manage and protect park resources, the NPS hires approximately 10,000 temporary and seasonal employees annually.

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Websites to Know

Federal Job Announcements: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/

Email address: www.nps.gov/personnel

NPS Seasonal Job descriptions: http://www.nps.gov/personnel/seasonal.htm

Seasonal Law Enforcement Training: www.anpr.org

National Park Information: www.nps.gov

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USAjobs.gov

If you want any type of career within the National Park Service become very familiar with the website: www.usajobs.gov. This job is where all NPS positions are posted. When you visit the site for the first time you can register and set up an account free of charge. It will prompt you to create a resume or you also have the option of uploading one as well (I personally do both.)

After you have created your account you are free to search the site. You can search jobs by the type of occupation, its location, and particular agencies. ***Because I am usually looking for GS-5 interpretive ranger positions I put ranger into the search box and then filter the results***

After you come back with a page of search results you can browse each individual job announcement by clicking on it. When you click on the position it will show you the title of the position, the pay grade, the location (physical address location, not the park), the grade and series, who is eligible to apply, and length of the position (term, permanent, seasonal). As you scroll down further it will in detail explain the duties of the position and what type of applicant they are looking for. Typically near the anticipated date of entry of the applicant is where you will see what park this is for (Glacier, Yellowstone, Jewel Cave, Grand Canyon, etc.)

If it is a job that interests you then on the right hand side there are options to apply or save the job so you can apply later. If you chose to apply, it’s a pretty simple task. You can either upload your pre-existing resume or use the one you’ve created on the website. ***I should mention that for cover letters, which I ALWAYS recommend, you will have to upload that to the website before applying.*** After you double check your resume each job announcement is going to ask specific questions that you will have to rank yourself on. *** Word of advice to take into consideration EVERYTHING you have done. Don’t over rank yourself that is just flat out lying and technically illegal, but let’s say you worked at a gas station and you supervised folks on running the till, even though it’s an NPS job if the question asks about till operation rank yourself as an expert in this field because you truly have trained others before.

After answering everything you will then be asked to make sure that all the questions you answered are correct and true. Once you say “yes” you will then be done.

I know it sounds like a nightmare but it is actually a fairly easy system to use. Also be patient, you are NOT going to hear back right away … it can sometimes even be months at a time!

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Cover Letter

Biggest advice I can give. NEVER, and I mean never, use the same cover letter over and over for every park. The National Park Service has a small network of folks and you don’t want potential employers realizing while talking to someone else that you just reuse the same cover letter. If you’re not willing to put the effort in to create a separate cove letter for that particular location you have to ask yourself … do you really want the job that bad? Because I guarantee the folks that do will make sure they have a very professional, friendly, and park specific cover letter.

When writing a cover letter applying specifically towards a National Park Service position there is information that you should include. Some of this information is:

• Somewhere within in your first paragraph you should include that you would like to be considered for employment at that particular location (use the name of that location.)
• State what positions you would like to be considered for, the more specific you can be the better.
• Briefly describe your qualifications, and what it is you can bring to the job.
• Describe why you want this particular job.
 

Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter Dos and Don’ts courtesy of CareerBuilder.com

Most people are familiar with the importance of a well-constructed resume, and put a fair amount of time into creating one. But just as important is the cover letter that accompanies and introduces your resume.

In an extremely competitive job market, neglecting your cover letter is a big mistake. Why? A cover letter is your first opportunity to tell a prospective employer about yourself, and to do so in your own words. Like a written interview, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to point out applicable experience and qualities that make you right for the job. And just like any other important job searching tool, there are definite dos and don'ts to follow to make sure your cover letter is an asset, not a hindrance.

Do personalize your letter.

Nobody likes to receive impersonal mail. Cover letters that begin with phrases like "To Whom it May Concern," sound like random junk or bulk mail, rather than an important correspondence. You expect the company to take the time to read through your material, so you too need to take some time to research the correct addressee. Call the company, look on its Web site or talk to others to find the correct contact.

Don't send a generic cover letter to many different companies.

Hiring managers can spot a mass mailing a mile away. What gets their attention are letters that address the company -- and its needs -- specifically. Research the company prior to writing the letter. Check out recent news and read through the company's Web site, and then incorporate what you learned into your letter. Doing so will demonstrate to employers that you are informed, motivated and willing to go the extra mile.

Do address the specific position advertised.

Companies that post openings are making your life easier by telling you the qualities they are seeking. Show the company that you paid attention. If a company advertises that it is looking for sales experience, make sure you address your sales experience. One way to do this is by making a table for yourself before writing your letter. List the company's stated needs in one column, and your corresponding experience and qualifications in another column. You can then use that information to write a letter that tells them exactly what they want to know.

Don't make the reader work too hard to see that you are right for the position.

Include specific examples about your past successes and experience. If you are looking for a marketing position, give the reader detailed information about a marketing campaign you successfully executed. Don't just tell the reader that you are motivated. Give an example that shows your motivation. You need to lay all of your pertinent information out in a way that lets the person making the hiring decision easily see how your experience and qualities fit the company's needs.

Do get to the point.

Hiring managers receive letters and resumes from dozens and even hundreds of applicants, and often just don't have the time to read lengthy, wordy letters. Be direct. In the first paragraph, include the title of the position you are interested in and then move on to your specific qualifications immediately.

Don't end your letter passively.

Nobody gets a job by sitting at home waiting for the phone to ring. Similarly, not many people get a call once a resume or cover letter is sent. Since you are the one looking for work, you need to take the initiative and follow up. Instead of ending the letter with "I look forward to hearing from you," close with "I will call you next week to discuss a time for us to meet." Once you've included this call to action, however, make sure you follow your own promise.

Do write and edit your letter with great care.

Nothing says "I don't really want this job" like a cover letter with typos, incorrect information, or spelling errors. Make sure the company's name is spelled correctly. Check to see if the contact is a male or female. And, while it sounds almost too obvious to mention, be sure to sign your letter. Careless -- and easily correctable -- mistakes tell the company that you did not take this simple task seriously.

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Resume

When writing a resume applying specifically towards a NPS position there is information that you should include. Some of this information is:

• When are you available to work?
• Start date.
• End date.
• What are you available to work?
• Full-time.
• Part-time.

List in detail your work experience. Include:

• Where you worked.
• When you worked there.
• What position you worked.
• Grade level (if a federal job).
• Salary earned.
• Hours worked.
• Supervisors name and contact information.
• Job description and details.

State your educational background. Include:

• Relevant coursework.
• GPA.
• Highest degree achieved.
• Semester Hours.
• Degree/s.
• Date of graduation/expected date of graduation.

Job related training.

• Professional development.
• Name of workshop/course.
• Where it took place.
• When you attended.
• Training courses.
• What were they?
• Name of certificate awarded.
• When completed.
• Special Licenses and Certifications.

List all languages you know.

• Spoken.
• Read.
• Written.

Affiliations.

• Name of organization/affiliation.
• Take into consideration who you are marketing your resume towards, is the affiliation appropriate?
• Your affiliation to them.
• Member/officer status.

References

• Have at least 3-5.
• Make at least 3 references professional.

Include:

• Name of reference
• Their place of business/work.
• Their job title.
• Phone number.
• Email address.

Type of reference:

• Professional
• Personal

It is not necessary to put your social security number on your resume.

You do not, and should not limit your resume only 1 to 2 pages. The more detailed information given, the better.

National Park Service Human Resources Tips

How to Write a Great Federal Resume

Always have an up-to-date resume ready to go: your dream job could open tomorrow! Don't wait until it opens and there's time pressure to get an application done in time. Do it NOW when you have time to do it right.

Format

Note: Some formatting suggestions are not necessary if using USA Staffing.

• Make it beautiful. Use a nice format with plenty of open space; make it pleasant for the reader to look at and easy to read. The resume that looks good stands out among the applications and is more likely to get extra attention. A nice-looking resume also conveys professionalism and shows that you care about your work.
• Place your name at the top of every page. Number the pages.
• Start with a page providing all of your stats and relevant data. Place your name prominently (in larger type) at the top, along with the position you are applying for and the vacancy announcement number. Include your address, phone, e-mail, date of birth, highest grade level achieved and time in grade, etc.
• Use a consistent format throughout, using bold, italic, underlining, fonts and colors strategically (but sparingly) for best effect.

Employment History

Note: Some suggestions are not applicable if using USA Staffing.

• Start your employment history on a separate page.
• Never use more than one page for a description of any job.
• Don't carry over a job description from one page to the next.
• Don't use long paragraphs. They are tiring on the eye. Limit paragraphs to three or four sentences at most and skip a line between paragraphs.
• Feel free to use bullets to highlight accomplishments or duties. Bullets make it easier for the reader and help to call attention to items.
• Spend more time explaining recent jobs, and use shorter descriptions for older jobs. Only include positions more than 10 years old if they substantially contribute to your experience and knowledge for the position for which you're applying. You can also list older positions without going into detail about your duties.
• Never quote from your position description. It reads poorly, it's bureaucratic and shows that you didn't put effort into your application. Use your own words to describe your job in simple, plain-English terms.
• Don't use strings of bureaucratic terms, such "developed, implemented, reviewed and monitored . . ." Use action verbs and plain English.
• Make sure descriptions of previous jobs are in the past tense and description of current job is in the present tense.
• Always include the dates (month and year) of both the start and the end of each position. If you were in more than one grade level during the time you occupied that position, do not only list the last/highest grade. Give the dates you were in each grade.
• Include detail assignments that contributed to your qualifications for the position for which you are applying. Include the detail start and end dates (month and year).
• Don't overlook your volunteer and religious work. Include significant experiences that contributed to your knowledge and experience, especially positions of leadership.
• Don't assume the reader understands technical terms. Explain them in a way that anyone reading your resume can understand what you do.
• Never use acronyms or abbreviations without spelling them out the first time.
• Give the name and CURRENT telephone number of your supervisor in the position, not the telephone number at the time you were there. Do the research to make sure the information is accurate, especially for positions in the last several years. If the supervisor is retired, state that. If you are being considered for a job, call recent supervisors to alert them that they may be receiving a call for a reference and thank them in advance for their assistance.
• If you don't want your supervisor contacted, state that specifically and don't provide a telephone number. I do not recommend this course of action, however, as it raises a red flag.
• It is not necessary to list supervisory names and phone numbers for other than the most recent positions. However, be prepared to provide the information upon request.

Other Information

• Include significant training courses, especially recent ones that contributed to your qualifications for the position for which you're applying. Be sure to indicate course name, provider, length of course and date (year is sufficient).
• Include significant awards such as performance awards, honor awards and significant STAR awards; explain what they were for and give the dates. Do not list minor awards.
• Include all special or technical skills, certifications or licenses related to the position for which you are applying.
• Do not provide personal references.

And Remember…

• Proofread, proofread and proofread again. Put it down and come back the next day and proofread it with fresh eyes.
• Use spell check!!! Spelling and grammar errors are a big no-no. Have someone with good writing skills review your resume and help catch errors and typos.
• Save it on your home computer and also keep a backup copy on a thumb drive, CD or external hard drive.
• Make a note on your personal calendar to remind yourself to review your resume every six months to see if it needs updating. Have you moved? Have you taken a significant training course? Did you get an award? Did you complete a special assignment or have a notable accomplishment?

Courtesy of National Park Service Human Resources Office in Washington

Preparing a Resume for Federal Government Employment Programs

Your resume may be the only time you get to present yourself to a federal employer. There may not be a follow-up phone call or face-to-face interview. So you've got to sell yourself through your resume. While a one-page resume may be appropriate for private sector employment, it's NOT appropriate for federal employment. The more relevant information about yourself you can provide, the better your chances. The following information is presented to help you market yourself effectively to a federal employer:

What's Required in a Resume?

• Name, mailing address, phone number (include a permanent home number and any temporary phone number), Social Security Number, and if you have an e-mail address, include it.
• Job title and job announcement number (so they can match your resume to the right job).
• Pay range or grade you are willing to consider.
• Highest level of education (list names and addresses of schools attended, major(s), degree and year degree was attained).
• Are you a citizen of the United States?
• Do you claim veteran's preference? If so, attach the DD 214 form or other proof of service.
• Other job qualifications or relevant training.
• If you have ever been employed as a civilian federal employee or are eligible for reinstatement based on previous federal status, include the job title and highest grade attained. Also attach a copy of your most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action.
• Original signature on your resume. The resume can be a photocopy, but the signature may not be a photocopy.
• Work experience (see next section)

Work Experience

• Look at the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's) listed on the job announcement. You should be able to demonstrate these skills or abilities or possess this knowledge for the job. Highlight your work or education relative these KSAs.
• Include all paid and non-paid experience to show your experience in these areas. Don't forget to include volunteer and other non-paid experience. For example, if you were the finance chair of your church's annual bazaar, you will have experience in planning a function, managing a budget, handling cash, and preparing financial reports. Don't underestimate your experience, describe them in detail.
• For each work experience, include the salary, hours worked per week, and the specific dates you worked. (For example, use June 1, 1999, through Sept. 15, 1999, instead of June 1999 through September 1999. In the federal government, the amount of time you worked may have impact on what salary you will be paid.)
• Don't forget to include honors, awards, or other recognition bestowed to you.
• Select individuals who know your work as references. As a courtesy, get their permission beforehand to list them on your resume.

Writing Tips

• Use active verbs
• Be specific (don't generalize and don't use abbreviations)
• Describe your work, not the work of others
• Check your spelling and grammar
• If possible, type your resume. If this is not possible, print legibly.
• If you are providing a copy of the resume, make sure it is a clear copy.

Courtesy of National Park Service

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Hints

Hints for Preparing Your Application and Resume

Dos

• Read the vacancy announcement carefully. List your full name. Do not use nicknames.
• Describe your experience so that you emphasize the work that used the skills required by the vacant position.
• Use active verbs to describe what work you actually did. Be concise and specific in descriptions.
• Keep your experience descriptions brief but fully detail, in bulleted format, what your duties entailed.
• Arrange your experience in chronological order and include paid and non-paid work experiences.
• Choose references who remember you and know how you perform in a work (paid or unpaid) situation.
• Have your OF-612/resume neatly and accurately typed/printed so that each word is legible.
• If you use acronyms, explain what they stand for and then list the acronym in parentheses prior to using it again.
• Include any special qualifications, memberships, accomplishments, licenses, and typing speed, in the "Other Qualifications" sections that includes training courses, certificates and job-related awards.
• Attach all requested material for the application. Failure to submit all materials requested may lessen your chances.
• If your application/resume is reproduced, be sure every page is easily readable.
• Make certain the pages are in the correct order.
• Provide a relative/friend telephone number if you do not have a telephone. Provide e-mail address and cell phone if possible.
• Contact the office listed on the announcement of any address or telephone number changes or if you have questions.

Don’ts

• Don't use the same application/resume for jobs announcement in non related fields.
• Don't exaggerate and don't be humble. Be honest.
• Don't describe the work of the organization or the work of others.
• Don't omit church, community or organization work. Volunteer time counts!
• Don't copy or list position descriptions to explain your job.
• Don't submit material that is messy, hard to read or confusing to follow.
• Don't include copies of awards, position descriptions published articles, unless requested to do so.
• Don't use abbreviations or nicknames.

Courtesy of National Park Service

Checklist for Your Application/Resume

_____ Application should be neatly typed/printed with no smudges. Do a spell check and read through it for accuracy! Most vacancy announcements will require you to upload your application.

_____ Leave Blocks 1-2-3 blank on the OF-612 (if using this format). These Blocks will be filled in with each job application and will include title of job, grade(s) applied for and vacancy announcement number.

_____ Every item on OF-612 must be filled in completely. This includes the full address of each employer including zip code, name of supervisor, a current telephone number, exact dates (at least month and year) of employment, salary per week and hours per week worked.

_____ Completely and concisely write job experiences. Clearly define the duties of your work experience(s), training classes, special achievements and qualifications. Work experience includes regular volunteer work. Examples: camp counselor, soccer coach, boys/girls clubs and scouting.

_____ Work experience, education, skills, and training should be sequentially organized and time chronological. Work backward from most recent experience to least recent experience.

_____ You do not need copies of certificates, awards, letters of commendation, training certificates or job descriptions unless specified in the vacancy announcement. Mention them in the application section of the OF612 under "Job Related Skills, Training courses and other Skills acquired" or, if providing a resume, use a similar section to list them.

For Specific Job Announcements

_____ Complete Block 1-2-3 of the OF612 for each specific announcement. The application must include an original signature and date prior to mailing. If submitting a resume, it must include title, series and grade you are applying for an announcement number.

_____Pay close attention to the "How to Apply" section. Most job applications are now submitted completely online. Other job applications must be received by the closing date or postmarked by the closing date and received within five calendar days.

_____If you have experience working for the federal government, you must include a current or most recent federal employment appraisal and including (if applicable) supervisory notations.

_____Supplemental forms must be completely filled in and attached. If Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA's) are required, each KSA must be addressed separately and limited to one page each. Other requested material such as (military) DD-214 and SF-15 must be attached to receive credit. A letter indicating percentage of disability from Veteran's Benefit Administration must be dated within the last 12 months.

_____College transcripts (all attended) must be attached to receive credit. They do not need to be original copies from the school. Originals will be required if you are selected based on your education.

Courtesy of National Park Service

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Buzzwords

When your application is being considered for employment with the National Park Service you should always use strong verbs to describe your work experience. Many National Park Service sites refer to these verbs as “buzzwords” and often using them on your resume and application enhances your chances of ranking higher, and being better qualified.

Here is a list of often sought after buzzwords from the National Park Service, try to conclude them somewhere in your application when describing your work experience.

accomplished

achieved

acquired

adjusted

administered

advised

analyzed

applied

appraised

arranged

assessed

assisted

assured

bought

briefed

brought

budgeted

cataloged

changed

formulated

gathered

graded

guided

handled

implemented

improved

initiated

inspected

instructed

insured

interpreted

interviewed

introduced

investigated

joined

kept

led

licensed

maintained

managed

modified

monitored

chaired

classified

closed

communicated

compared

completed

conceived

concluded

conducted

continued

contracted

controlled

coordinated

corrected

counseled

critiqued

dealt

decided

defined

named

negotiated

observed

ordered

organized

participated

perceived

performed

persuaded

planned

prepared

presented

processed

programmed

prohibited projected

promoted

purchased

qualified

rated

recommended

related

reported

researched

delegated

delivered

demonstrated

designed

determined

developed

devised

directed

drafted

edited

enlisted

ensured

established

estimated

evaluated

expanded

expedited

explained

financed

forecast

reviewed

revised

selected

set

solved

sought

specified

spoke

studied

suggested

summarized

supervised

targeted

taught

tested

trained

translated

treated

updated

wrote

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National Park Service Positions

Visitor Use Assistant

As a uniformed employee of the National Park Service, you serve as a front-line representative of the agency and frequently you are the first and only contact the visiting public has with an NPS employee. You work at an entrance station, visitor center, campground or other visitor contact station, collecting fees and providing answers to visitor questions about recreational opportunities, interpretive services, and concession facilities and services. You distribute maps and brochures, provide directions through the park and inform visitors of potential safety hazards. As you’re responsible for collecting fees and following accountability guidelines for handling government funds, you must pass a required background investigation. You operate an electronic cash register, perform open and closing shift functions to verify money collected and stock sold. Other duties may include a variety of visitor services such as traffic control, radio dispatching or back-country patrols.

Park Naturalist

Would you like to practice your public speaking skills? As a uniformed employee of the National Park Service, you deliver interpretative programs to educate visitors. You independently present a variety of talks and briefings and respond to visitor questions. Your presentations are generally short and concern park orientation and visitor safety. You explain the area’s natural, cultural and/or historic resources, recreational opportunities, concession facilities and services, availability of campgrounds and hiking trails. You provide information on current park events, projects, and policies, as well as updates on issues affecting the natural, historical and/or cultural preservation of the area. Park guides work in or near the park visitor center or visitor contact station, and at auditoriums, campgrounds, trails, or in the field. Other duties may include visitor services such as fee collection, traffic control, back-country patrols, and administrative tasks.

Biological Science Technician

You have a direct impact on managing the resources of our National Parks by collecting essential field data. You collect samples and record all data collected. You work in the field, laboratory, or typical office setting. You install, operate and maintain tools, traps, and sampling, monitoring, photographic, and laboratory equipment. You use a variety of computer programs to compile, store, and report data and resource management information, including natural science research and long-term monitoring projects. You also maintain and organize computer databases and prepare correspondence, reports and other documents.

Park Ranger

Do you like working directly with the public? As a park ranger for the National Park Service, you (1) interpret and explain park resources to visitors; (2) facilitate visitor enjoyment of the park and its resources; (3) help ensure visitor behavior that protects park resources and gain friendly compliance with the laws and rules for safe use of the park; and (4) encourage visitors to develop a sense of stewardship of park resources. You research and present interpretive programs, and present a variety of formal and informal programs including orientation talks, environmental education programs, conducted walks, demonstrations and campfire programs. You tell visitors about park facilities and resources such as visitor centers, campgrounds, historical sites and auditoriums. Other duties may include gathering information for reports, compiling statistical data, assisting with search and rescue efforts or helping to combat wild-land and structural fires.

Maintenance

Maintenance work is vital to the safe and efficient operation of our parks. Throughout the country, park units call on trades and crafts personnel to maintain and construct trails, roads, housing, visitor facilities, utility systems, signs, furniture, and so on. As a maintenance worker, you perform skilled and semi-skilled work in a variety of trades: trail maintenance work is frequently conducted out-of-doors and normally requires the ability to lift heavy objects in a variety of terrains.

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Standards

Education and Experience Requirements

Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for all grade levels for which both education and experience are acceptable.

Education

Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- natural resource management, natural sciences, earth sciences, history, archeology, anthropology, park and recreation management, law enforcement/police science, social sciences, museum sciences, business administration, public administration, behavioral sciences, sociology, or other closely related subjects pertinent to the management and protection of natural and cultural resources. Course work in fields other than those specified may be accepted if it clearly provides applicants with the background of knowledge and skills necessary for successful job performance in the position to be filled.

Experience

General Experience (for positions at GS-4 and below): Experience in administrative, professional, technical, investigative, or other responsible work that provided a familiarity with natural or cultural history; fish or wildlife habitat characteristics; techniques of resource protection and use; recreational use of public lands and facilities; enforcement of laws, rules, or regulations; fire prevention techniques and fire suppression methods; or the practice of interpersonal relations skills in dealing with the general public. Experience in substantive and relevant secretarial, clerical, or trades and crafts work is also qualifying if pertinent to the position to be filled. Experience of a routine nature, such as typing, filing, maintaining records, or other non-specialized tasks is not qualifying.

Specialized Experience (for positions at GS-3 and above): Experience that demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform successfully the duties of the position to be filled. Experience may have been in technical, administrative, or scientific work, fish and wildlife management, recreation management, law enforcement, or other park-related work. Examples of qualifying specialized experience include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Park guide or tour leader.
• Law enforcement or investigative work.
• Archeological or historical preservation research work.
• Forestry and/or fire management work in a park, recreation, or conservation area.
• Management, assistant, or program specialist work involving the development and implementation of policy related to protection, conservation, or management of park areas or similar operations.

Use of Selective Factors

Some Park Ranger positions may require knowledge, skills, abilities or other qualifications that are in addition to those described in this standard. Examples include specialized certification(s), possession of a law enforcement commission, or other qualifications essential to successful performance in the position to be filled.

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National Park Service Sites

Since 1916, the American people have entrusted the National Park Service with the care of their national parks. With the help of volunteers and park partners, we are proud to safeguard these nearly 400 places and to share their stories with more than 275 million visitors every year. But our work doesn’t stop there.

We are proud that tribes, local governments, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and individual citizens ask for our help in revitalizing their communities, preserving local history, celebrating local heritage, and creating close to home opportunities for kids and families to get outside, be active, and have fun.

Taking care of the national parks and helping Americans take care of their communities is a job we love, and we need – and welcome – your help and support.

For a complete list of all National Park Service sites please check out:

http://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm

Typically when visiting each National Park Service sites webpage there is the option on the left hand side that says contact us. To find out more information about a particular park this is the best way to get a hold of them.

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Employer’s Suggestions

(What a boss may be looking for in a potential employer).

Ask the right questions…

• Take time to research about the particular place you are interested in working and try to work appropriate questions into your interview to show the hiring official you’ve taken the initiative to go above and beyond.

Be honest…

• It is never beneficial to the employer and the employee when you lie during your interview just to get hired. Be honest and upfront in every situation, if not it may compromise the future of your position.

Be professional…

• Through every step of the hiring process. Stay in communication with a hiring official throughout the hiring process as to make sure everything is in order.

Be organized…

• Get all of your paper work in by the time it is due. Make sure it is neat and legible; after all this is the first impression the employer will have of you.

Be knowledgeable…

• Be familiar with your resume. Employers will question you on your resume and you want to make sure you are ready to answer any question they may have quickly and efficiently.

Be prepared…

• You may be asked many different questions throughout the hiring process. Make sure you are prepared to answer an assortment; this is also an excellent opportunity to become more familiar with the place of employment.

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Advice on How to Work for the NPS

From the SCA (Student Conservation Association)

Ever dream of working in the great outdoors for a living? There are many different jobs on public lands throughout the country. The National Park Service hires seasonal and full-time rangers at every park throughout the country and the competition is fierce. Applying for National Park Ranger jobs is like applying for college; you must apply to each park individually, and hope the one you want calls you first.

Rangers fall into a few categories; interpretation, law enforcement, backcountry, trail. Whether you’re a student majoring in environmental education or a mid-level executive looking to make a career change, the steps are surprisingly similar.

Volunteer

Being a National Park Ranger isn’t for everyone. To be sure it’s something you’d really be interested in, take some time to volunteer with a local or state park on weekends or during the summer. If you can spare three to six months (or longer) volunteer with The Student Conservation Association, an organization that places people of all ages in public lands to gain hands on experience in conservation work.

Think about how your experience is applicable

National Park Rangers come from a variety of backgrounds; actors, teachers, communications specialists, librarians, customer service, just to name a few. If you can show that you have the skills to work with people of all ages, races, backgrounds and ethnicities, be patient while answering questions, and be able to follow important safety instructions, you’ll be ahead of the game.

Get certified

Get certified in First Aid and CPR from your local hospital or American Red Cross chapter. Consider getting your Wilderness First Aid certification.

Get in shape

Ranger jobs can be physically taxing. Even if you’re not on a trail or doing search and rescue, you’ll be on your feet all day. Whatever ranger position you choose, in whatever park, you’ll need to maintain high levels of energy.

Apply

Each park manages its own hiring. Although all National Parks are jointly managed under the National Park Service, you must apply to each one individually. Since the season of each park varies by location, the hiring times don’t necessarily overlap. You may long to work in Yellowstone, but get a call from a smaller park first and have to make a difficult decision. Visit USAJOBS.gov for job openings and application instructions.

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Gain Experience

Varying from year to year there may be the opportunities to work at National Park sites besides through www.usajobs.gov, or the STEP/SCEP program.

If you’re serious about making the National Park Service your long-term career goal then these are other opportunities you should consider to gain experience to become better qualified for the positions you want.

The Student Conservation Association (SCA)

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) provides college and high school-aged members with hands-on conservation service opportunities in virtually every field imaginable, from tracking grizzlies through the Tetons to restoring desert ecosystems and teaching environmental education at Washington, D.C.’s Urban Tree House. They are truly building the next generation of conservation leaders. For more information: http://www.thesca.org/

AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps is an opportunity to make a big difference in your life and in the lives of those around you. It’s a chance to apply your skills and ideals toward helping others and meeting critical needs in the community.

For more information: http://www.americorps.gov/

Volunteer

The NPS Volunteers-in-Parks (VIP) Program was implemented in 1970 to provide a way for the public and the NPS to engage in mutually beneficial relationships. Volunteers provide their skills, enthusiasm and strength to help the NPS function at its best. The NPS, in return, offers volunteers unparalleled opportunities for education and personal growth. Today, the system uses the web to display all the volunteer opportunities in a given area instantly.  For more information: http://www.nps.gov/volunteer

Peace Corps

Today's Peace Corps is more vital than ever, working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development, and contributing to the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves, their children, and their communities.  Participants of the Peace Corps program who successfully complete their term are eligible for Federal hiring preference. This program allows Peace Corps or VISTA volunteers who have completed no less than 12 months of continuous service to be hired for professional, administrative, technical, blue-collar, or clerical positions. For more information: http://www.peacecorps.gov/

US Military

Within the US Military every day, many thousands devote themselves to protecting freedoms, maintaining peace, providing relief and supporting policy around the globe. For many young Americans, the benefits of serving can be tremendous: training, honor, education, travel, pay and self-discovery. However, military service is not for everyone. It requires self-discipline, intense physical work and time away from family and friends while protecting America and its citizens at home and abroad. For some, these commitments impose too great a burden.  People who qualify as veterans after serving their military term are eligible for veteran’s preference when applying for Federal positions within the United States.  For more information: http://www.todaysmilitary.com/

Higher Education

Undergraduate and Graduate Education is a great way to gain knowledge to put towards your future career. Your educational background is one way you can gain the basic qualifications that allow you to be qualified for many National Park Service positions. If considering the law enforcement career prospective within the National Park Service there is additional education required. You must pass through a certified law enforcement academy that is recognized by the National Park Service.

Major study -- natural resource management, natural sciences, earth sciences, history, archeology, anthropology, park and recreation management, law enforcement/police science, social sciences, museum sciences, business administration, public administration, behavioral sciences, sociology, or other closely related subjects pertinent to the management and protection of natural and cultural resources. Course work in fields other than those specified may be accepted if it clearly provides applicants with the background of knowledge and skills necessary for successful job performance in the position to be filled.

Outstanding Scholar Provision

This is a special hiring authority under the Administrative Careers with America Program. After advertising a job, the agency may select individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Possess an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all undergraduate coursework completed and receipt of a Bachelor’s Degree or who are in the upper 10% of their overall undergraduate graduating class or of the undergraduate graduating class of a major university subdivision.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• This hiring authority may not be used to fill clerical, technical or professional positions.

To Apply Submit:

• Apply for a specific job announcement.
• Resume/Application.
• Official college transcripts indicating class standing or GPA.
• Letter requesting consideration under the Outstanding Scholars Provision.
• For more information: http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/standards/IORs/gs0000/0025.htm

Workshops & Trainings

Workshops and trainings are a great way for you to add some ‘experience’ to your resume. Depending on what type of position you are looking for within the National Park Service will determine what types of workshops and trainings you will want to take part of. Popular trainings and workshops geared towards folks in the National Park Service profession are:

Eppley Program

The Eppley Institute is Indiana University's unique outreach program for the park, recreation and public land management professions and works to enhance the quality of natural, cultural, and recreational experiences for all people. With the resources of Indiana University, the Eppley Institute has access to experts and a technology support system that is difficult to duplicate. The Eppley Institute provides expertise in several areas, including technical assistance and research, planning and design, and training and education for the National Park Service and other similar organizations around the world.  Many of these courses are free of charge and are able to do at your own pace online. Some of these courses do have a fee and you can opt to purchase continuing education credits for many of them.

For more information: http://www.eppley.org/about

National Association for Interpretation

The National Association for Interpretation (NAI) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) professional association for those involved in the interpretation of natural and cultural heritage resources in settings such as parks, zoos, museums, nature centers, aquaria, botanical gardens, and historical sites. For more than 50 years. NAI and its parent organizations have encouraged networking, training, and collaboration among members and partners in support of our mission: inspiring leadership and excellence to advance heritage interpretation as a profession.  NAI offers many workshops, trainings, and certifications throughout the year. Some of the certifications include:

• Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP)  Individuals who are responsible for planning (experienced or not) – from regional master planning to site-specific exhibit planning; should have some understanding of interpretation
• Certified Interpretive Trainer (CIT) Individuals responsible for training people in the interpretive field whether in a university setting, for an agency or as a contractor
• Certified Heritage Interpreter (CHI) Experienced interpreters capable of developing and implementing personal programs and non-personal media
• Certified Interpretive Manager (CIM) Managers or supervisors of sites with any sort of interpretation or education program
• Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) New hires, seasonals, docents/volunteers, individuals who will be delivering interpretive programs or having public contact at interpretive sites but with no previous training in interpretation
• Certified Interpretive Host (CIH) New hires, seasonals, docents/volunteers, maintenance workers, receptionists, law enforcement – people who have public contact but do not deliver presentations

NAI also hosts many conferences which are great for networking opportunities within the National Park Service. Scholarships are available every year on both a National level and Regional level to students who are members (student, institutional, other) of NAI and are working towards becoming interpreters. For more information: http://www.interpnet.com/

Project Programs

Having experience in environmental education is another great way of building your resume. There are many wonderful environmental education programs that one can become certified through. These include:

Project Wild

Project WILD is one of the most widely-used conservation and environmental education programs among educators of students in kindergarten through high school. It is based on the premise that young people and educators have a vital interest in learning about our natural world. A national network of State Wildlife Agency Sponsors ensures that Project WILD is available nationwide --training educators in the many facets of the program. Emphasizing wildlife because of its intrinsic value, Project WILD addresses the need for human beings to develop as responsible citizens of our planet. For more information: http://www.projectwild.org/

Project Wet

Since 1984, Project WET, an award-winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has dedicated itself to the mission of reaching children, parents, teachers and community members of the world with water education. For more information: http://www.projectwet.org

Project Learning Tree

Project Learning Tree is an award-winning environmental education program designed for teachers and other educators, parents, and community leaders working with youth from preschool through grade 12.  For more information: http://www.plt.org/

Project Underground

The vision of Project Underground, Inc. is “People will make wise, informed, choices as they manage cave, karst and groundwater resources to protect the underground ecosystems for the health of current and future generations.” To accomplish this vision Project Underground has a mission to “build the necessary awareness and responsible attitudes towards cave, karst and groundwater resources and their management needs among the general public through educational and interpretive programs. For more information: http://karsteducation.org/

Concessionaries

To provide services for all of these people, the Park Service arranges contracts with companies called concessioners. Concessioners offer food, lodging and hospitality services, recreational tours, gas, gifts, and just about everything else vacationers may want or need.

One larger run concessionaire is Xanterra. Xanterra Parks & Resorts believes people are our most valuable resource. Our success depends upon highly motivated, committed, and competent people who share our vision and work together to attain it. Our work environment encourages responsibility for personal growth and promotes pride in each employee. We foster a culture that promotes fairness and diversity, and provides equal opportunities throughout the organization.

Working at any one of our locations is not just a job, but an experience of a lifetime. After a day's work, there is so much to do and see at any of our locations. Let your talents get you here, then take advantage of the entire splendor our parks and resorts offer.

For more information: http://www.xanterra.com/A-Great-Company-for-a-Year-or-a-Career-341.html

Other Agencies

Look into other agencies to gain experience. State parks are an excellent way to gain experience as well as private entities, and other federal agencies like the US Forest Service. Look in local newspapers or use an internet search engine to find specific locations you would be interested in or usajobs.gov for other federal employment opportunities like the US Forest Service.

For more information:

US Forest Service http://www.fs.fed.us/

BLM http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en.html

BIA http://www.bia.gov/

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What Are You Waiting For?

Working for the National Park Service is a rewarding opportunity. As you work behind the scenes of our National Parks you are adding to the legacy of preserving and protecting some of America’s greatest places and also gaining the experiences of a lifetime. Remember to stay positive as you set forth on your journey in becoming a National Park Service employee.

GOOD LUCK!!!