About this role
Job SummaryPark Guides greet visitors to educate and inform them in our National Parks. Work can include providing information on natural, cultural, or historical resources. Open to the first 125 applicants or until 09/13/2026 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.
QualificationsAll qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-09/13/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your 2-page resume MUST clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment (month/year), and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount of qualified specialized experience. You MUST limit your resume to no more than 2 pages. If more than 2 pages are submitted, only the first 2 pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility/qualifications. You can only submit one resume; only the resume submitted under the "Resume" "Document Type" will be used to determine your qualifications and for rating purposes. To qualify for this position at the GS-05 level, you must possess one of the following: A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-04 level. Specialized Experience is experience that involved oral presentation of historical, scientific, or program information to groups; or developing and/or revising technical, historical, or scientific information for oral presentation to groups. Examples of specialized experience could include park guide or tour leader, naturalist, environmental educator or teacher, or other similar work.-OR- B. Successfully completed four years of study above high school (120 semester hour or 180 quarter hours) leading to a bachelor's degree with courses related to the occupation, such as American History, science, public speaking, parks and recreation, education or communications. -OR- C. Equivalent combination of experience and education that, together, equal 100% of the qualification standards listed above when combined. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Major DutiesPark Guide Standard Duties: Staff information counter in a visitor center. Answering questions on a variety of subjects. Present limited and repetitive pre-established talks including introductions to films, map talks, and static exhibit interpretation. Orient hikers to conditions and equipment needs. Guide small parties (up to 20 people) on short walks. Some park locations issue backcountry camping permits and provide backcountry camping information. Additional duties for GS-05: Performs duties including programs that require application of broad subject-matter knowledge of the park. Guide large groups (up to 50 people) on longer walks or programs. Provide a wide range of services to park visitors. Orient and explain current park events and warn of safety hazards.RequirementsU.S. Citizenship required. Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication. Males must meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement. Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program. Occupancy of government quarters may be required. Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed. Use find a park to contact specific parks for more information on government housing. Required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided. You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime and/or shift work. You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties. Prior to first government motor vehicle operation, and again every year thereafter (or more frequently if management determines such need exists), you will be required to sign an affidavit certifying to your possession of a valid State issued driver's license that is current and has not been revoked, suspended, canceled, or otherwise disqualified in any way to prohibit your operation of a motor vehicle. Physical ability to lift 25 of pounds of weight.