Seasonal jobs available in state parks, forests, historic sites

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is looking to fill hundreds of seasonal jobs to serve visitors to New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites.

The jobs include lifeguards, naturalists and history educators, visitor service assistants, maintenance personnel, office staff and trail stewards.

“A seasonal job with the State Park Service has numerous benefits, from being outdoors in nature to developing important life and work skills,” said DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette.

“We encourage people of all backgrounds and experience levels to apply. Our seasonal hires become ambassadors for showcasing to millions of visitors the beauty and endless recreational opportunities across New Jersey.”

To learn which parks, forests and historic sites are accepting applications or to apply for a specific position, go online to www.nj.gov/dep/workinparks

Applicants are encouraged to check with the park office of their choice by phone or email about specific positions, scheduling and other job-related inquiries. Applications are recommended to be submitted by Wednesday, March 1.

While most seasonal job openings are from Memorial Day through Labor Day, some parks need part-time staff year-round. Most jobs are outdoors.

Seasonal staff are required to work weekends and holidays because park facilities are open every day. The State Park Service will work with applicants, such as students and teachers, whose availability may be limited to weekends during certain periods of the year.

The type and number of positions vary by location, depending on the recreational and educational activities each area offers. Applicants must be 16 or older to apply. Starting hourly salaries range from $15 to $18.50 depending on the position.

Lifeguard jobs

Lifeguards are needed at swimming areas across the state, with salaries starting at $17.50 an hour.

Experience is not necessary, but candidates must pass running and swim tests.

The State Park Service will train lifeguards in cardiopulmonary resuscitation/Automated External Defibrillator use, first aid and other medical matters. Each lifeguard will also receive a U.S. Lifesaving Association certification.

The DEP anticipates state park swimming areas to open in mid-June.

Lifeguard jobs are anticipated at High Point, Hopatcong, Swartswood and Wawayanda state parks.

After a successful pilot run in 2022, the State Park Service will continue expanding its aquatics program by hiring junior lifeguards who at least 15 years old at $16 an hour.

Regional lifeguard trainer and water safety supervisor positions are available, both starting at $27 an hour.

Trail stewards

Trail steward positions are available at Cheesequake State Park, Island Beach State Park, Stokes State Forest, Wharton State Forest and Worthington State Forest.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and able to hike long distances daily. They should be personable, assertive and professional as they work with crowds and advise visitors about the Leave No Trace concept and park regulations. Other jobs may include brushing and blazing trails, installing signs and fences, and performing general trail maintenance.

Visitor service and office assistants help register campers, collect entrance fees, answer phone calls, keep records and conduct other customer service duties as required.

Naturalists and history educators work with park naturalists and historians at interpretive centers and historic sites to educate visitors. Typical activities include leading or assisting with interpretive programs, teaching visiting camp groups, demonstrating a craft and preparing materials. These positions may also be assigned specific projects by their supervisor.

Naturalist opportunities are available at Liberty State Park, High Point State Park and Stokes State Forest.

History educator positions are available at Ringwood State Park and Waterloo Village Historic Site.

Maintenance personnel are vital to the State Park Service’s summer operations. Applicants should expect to assist full-time staff in a variety of tasks that include lawn mowing, cleaning of facilities, trash removal, park improvement projects and other general maintenance functions. Those with a unique skill, such as carpentry, are encouraged to apply for these positions.

Applications are being accepted online at www.nj.gov/dep/workinparks

The State Park Service manages more than 453,000 acres of land, including 40 state parks, 11 state forests, three recreation areas, and more than 50 historic sites and districts.