Embark on a Career as a Park Ranger (Protection) at the Everglades
Are you looking for a career that combines public service, law enforcement, and environmental stewardship? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently accepting applications for seasonal Park Ranger (Protection) roles at Everglades National Park. This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to work in one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the United States while serving the public and protecting our shared natural heritage.
Job Responsibilities
As a Park Ranger (Protection), your daily duties will be far from routine. You will serve as a primary responder in the field, carrying out a variety of critical functions:
- Law Enforcement: Enforce federal laws, regulations, and park policies. Conduct misdemeanor investigations and support felony investigations.
- Emergency Response: Provide medical assistance, conduct search and rescue operations, and participate in fire suppression activities.
- Patrols: Monitor front country and backcountry locations to prevent degradation of natural and cultural resources.
- Public Safety: Assist with crowd control, motor vehicle accident investigations, and visitor orientation.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | GS-05 Requirements | GS-07 Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year Specialized (GS-04 equivalent) | 1 Year Specialized (GS-05 equivalent) |
| Education | 4-year degree (or 24 relevant credits) | 1 year graduate-level education |
| Primary Focus | Broad resource/public use knowledge | Independent LE investigation experience |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for these roles, candidates must meet several strict criteria by their start date. These include:
- Age: Minimum age of 21.
- LE Commission: Possession of a National Park Service Type II Law Enforcement Commission.
- Physical Fitness: Passing the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB), which tests your agility, lifting capability, and cardiovascular endurance.
- Documentation: A perfectly formatted two-page resume that clearly outlines work hours and duties.
Salary and Benefits
This position is compensated at an hourly rate ranging from $24.74 to $28.16, depending on qualifications and assigned grade level. While these positions are temporary, they offer the prestige of federal service, a uniform allowance, and the chance to protect some of America's most precious land.
Application Tips
Applying for federal jobs can be complex. Follow these tips to stand out:
- Strictly follow the page limit: The two-page limit on your resume is a hard requirement. If you go over, your application will be discarded.
- Detail your hours: Federal HR reviewers need to see specific hours worked per week to calculate your eligibility.
- Use the USAJobs builder: Utilizing the official tool helps ensure you include all mandatory federal information.
Working as a Park Ranger (Protection) is a high-stress, high-reward role that demands physical and mental resilience. If you are prepared to protect the Everglades and serve the public, submit your application today. The deadline is July 26, 2026.
Why This Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal) Job Matters
Protect the Everglades: Serve as a seasonal Park Ranger (Protection) and join the frontline defense of Americaβs most iconic landscapes.
Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking dedicated individuals to fill seasonal Park Ranger (Protection) positions at Everglades National Park. These roles are vital for maintaining public safety, enforcing federal regulations, and ensuring the stewardship of natural and cultural resources. Working in one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, you will patrol diverse terrains, respond to emergencies, and protect visitors. The roles are temporary appointments with a duration of up to 1,560 hours.
Requirements for Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Must hold or be eligible to obtain a National Park Service Type II Law Enforcement Commission.
- Must pass the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB) test.
- Must submit to a pre-employment medical exam and drug testing.
- Must possess a valid state-issued driver's license.
- Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
- Completion of a two-page maximum resume detailing work hours and duties.
- Males born after Dec 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal)
- Prior law enforcement experience in a park or conservation setting.
- Demonstrated experience in emergency medical services, search and rescue, or fire suppression.
- One year of specialized federal experience at the GS-04 or GS-05 level (depending on target grade).
- Relevant graduate education for GS-07 positions.
- Ability to work in remote, isolated, and harsh environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βUniform allowance provided.
- βAccess to a range of federal employment benefits.
- βExposure to unique natural resource management operations.
- βValuable federal law enforcement experience.
π‘ How to Apply Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Park Ranger (Protection) (Seasonal) Job
- Log into or create your USAJobs account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a two-page resume highlighting specific duties and hours worked.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and law enforcement credentials.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM EST on July 26, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Explicitly state hours worked per week for every position listed to ensure proper credit for experience.
- Do not include personal photographs in your documents.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
- Double-check that all law enforcement certification dates and IDs are clearly documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit more than one resume?
No, you may only submit one resume. If multiple are submitted, only the latest version will be reviewed.
What is the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB)?
It is a fitness test assessing agility, strength, and cardiovascular health. You must meet the 25th percentile standard to qualify for the position.
Is government housing provided?
Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed. You should contact the specific park for availability after applying.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) is an agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior. It manages all national parks, many national monuments, and other conservation and historical properties. Everglades National Park, the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, requires dedicated professionals to manage its sensitive habitats and ensure the safety of its thousands of annual visitors.
