Become a Park Ranger: Preventative Search & Rescue at Point Reyes
Are you looking to turn your passion for outdoor safety and conservation into a career? The National Park Service is hiring a Park Ranger specializing in Preventative Search & Rescue (PSAR) at the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore. This role is a unique opportunity to work in a world-class environment while helping visitors stay safe.
About the National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) is a bureau of the Department of the Interior responsible for preserving the natural and cultural resources of the United States. Working at Point Reyes means joining a dedicated team committed to protecting unique ecosystems and providing unforgettable visitor experiences.
Job Responsibilities
As a PSAR Park Ranger, your days will be dynamic and varied. You will:
- Oversee daily operations for the park's PSAR program.
- Lead patrols and evaluate the most effective ways to manage visitor flow and safety.
- Provide educational outreach to ensure hikers and visitors understand the challenges of the coastal terrain.
- Act as a lead for emergency medical response and technical rescue efforts.
- Supervise volunteers and coordinate with local public safety agencies.
Comparison: Who Should Apply
| Criteria | Ideal Candidate |
|---|---|
| Education | Masters or 2+ years of graduate study |
| Experience | 1+ year of specialized park/rescue work |
| Location | Resident of designated Bay Area counties |
| Commitment | 1-2 Year Temporary Appointment |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-09 role, you must demonstrate either specialized experience equivalent to a GS-07 grade, a qualifying graduate degree, or a combination of both. You must be a U.S. citizen, pass a drug test, and be able to reside in the designated local commuting area.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $77,161 to $100,315 per year. Employees also receive a uniform allowance and the invaluable experience of working in one of the most beautiful regions in Northern California.
Application Tips
- Watch the Page Count: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. This is a non-negotiable requirement.
- Be Specific: Always denote your hours per week to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Verify Residence: Ensure you have your proof of residency documents ready before starting your application.
If you have the skills to handle emergency situations and the desire to serve, this role at Point Reyes is the perfect next step. Apply by July 14, 2026, to ensure your application is considered.
Why This Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar)) Job Matters
Protect our natural treasures while building a career in one of California’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes as a Preventative Search & Rescue Park Ranger.
Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar)) Job Overview
The National Park Service at Point Reyes National Seashore is seeking a proactive and skilled individual to join the team as a Park Ranger specializing in Preventative Search & Rescue (PSAR). This position is vital for maintaining visitor safety, conducting public outreach, and managing emergency response operations across the park's diverse terrain. This is a temporary, one-year appointment, which may be extended up to two years, and is specifically open to candidates living within the local commuting area of Northern California.
Requirements for Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar))
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must reside within Sonoma, Marin, Napa, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, or San Francisco counties.
- Possess a valid state driver's license.
- Submit to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
- Complete pre-employment and random drug testing.
- Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 if meeting specific student criteria).
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Submit a two-page resume in the specified format.
- Provide proof of residence within the designated local commuting area.
Preferred Qualifications for Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar))
- Extensive experience in search and rescue, emergency medical services, or park management.
- A background in law enforcement, natural resource management, or public safety.
- Graduate-level education in fields like natural sciences, history, or park management.
- Experience providing technical supervision to volunteers or field teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary based on GS-09 pay scale
- ✓Locality pay for high cost-of-living areas
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Opportunity to work in a protected, world-class natural environment
- ✓Professional development and training in emergency management
💡 How to Apply Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Park Ranger (Preventative Search & Rescue (Psar)) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a two-page resume that details your specialized experience in hours per week.
- Gather your transcripts and proof of residence.
- Submit your application package through the USAJOBS portal before the July 14, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two single-sided pages; longer resumes will not be reviewed.
- Use standard 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins for all document submissions.
- Clearly state your hours worked (e.g., 40 hours per week) to ensure your experience counts.
- Double-check your proof of residence documentation, as this is a strict requirement for the local hiring authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I live outside the specified California counties?
No, this position is open only to residents within the local commuting area, specifically Sonoma, Marin, Napa, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, and San Francisco counties.
Is government housing provided?
Government housing may be available, but it is not guaranteed.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Your application will not be considered; strictly adhere to the two-page limit.