Park Issues

How much choice do park rangers have in which parks they work in?

Are park rangers placed in a park at the discretion of the NPS, or do people apply to be park rangers at specific parks? Are rangers able to return to the same park the next season if they want to? Is it easier to get hired if an applicant is willing to work in a park that's more out-of-the-way and/or less popular, so they are competing against fewer job applicants? Thanks!

Public Comments

1. It depends on what kind of job (seasonal or career and interpretative or law enforcement) you are applying for and whether or not its a federal, state or local park. The best place to start is probably to volunteer as a seasonal assistant or guide. Specific parks, generally speaking. Yes, it is better to apply at lesser known parks if its your first seasonal job. Yes, rangers are able to return to the same park, provided positions are available. Seasonal employees are first to be considered. To be a law-enforcement ranger, you must complete a training course which costs and is only available at certain approved colleges. You also must pass a fitness exam. http://www.nps.gov/policy/DOrders/DOrder57.html Your best bet is to call the nps directly to make certain you have up-to-date information, if that is the park system you wish to pursue