Explore a Career as a Seasonal Park Guide with the National Park Service
Are you looking for an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of visitors while working in some of America’s most significant cultural and natural sites? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently accepting applications for Seasonal Park Guides at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve in Louisiana. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about public service, history, and education.
About the National Park Service
The National Park Service preserves the natural and cultural resources of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. Working for the NPS means joining a team dedicated to stewardship, interpretation, and public engagement.
Job Responsibilities
As a Park Guide, you are the face of the National Park Service. Your core duties include:
- Staffing visitor center information counters.
- Providing engaging, accurate information about park resources.
- Conducting guided walks and interpreting historical or natural exhibits.
- Assisting with visitor safety, including orienting hikers to trail conditions.
- Handling money for retail or permit operations as required.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education/Experience | GS-05 level requires one year of specialized experience or a bachelor's degree |
| Driving Record | Must possess a valid State-issued driver's license |
| Documentation | 2-page resume must specify hours worked per week |
Salary Overview
The pay scale for this seasonal position ranges from $19.52 to $25.37 per hour. Compensation is determined by the GS-05 grade level requirements and specific operational needs of the park.
Benefits
While this is a temporary appointment, staff benefit from a professional environment, potential eligibility for future non-competitive rehire, and the provision of a uniform allowance to ensure you are well-equipped for your duties.
Application Tips
Success in federal applications relies heavily on attention to detail. Ensure your resume explicitly states your work history in month/year format and includes total hours worked weekly. If you have military service, include your rank and branch. Most importantly, strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit.
Becoming a Park Guide is a rewarding way to contribute to the preservation of our national treasures. If you are ready to start your journey with the National Park Service, visit the federal hiring portal to submit your application by the July 2026 deadline.
Why This Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful) Job Matters
Embark on a meaningful career connecting visitors with the rich heritage and natural beauty of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking enthusiastic, service-oriented individuals to join our team as seasonal Park Guides. In this role, you will serve as the frontline representative of the park, providing essential information, facilitating educational programming, and ensuring a safe, high-quality experience for all visitors. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, sharing knowledge of history, science, and the environment at locations in Chalmette and Marrero, Louisiana.
Requirements for Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Submit a resume not exceeding two single-sided pages.
- Must possess a valid State-issued driver's license.
- Must undergo and pass a background investigation.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer program.
Preferred Qualifications for Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful)
- Experience in oral presentations or public speaking related to historical, scientific, or cultural topics.
- Academic background in American History, Science, Education, Communications, or Parks and Recreation.
- Prior experience as a tour leader, naturalist, environmental educator, or teacher.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Opportunities for professional experience in a premier federal agency
- ✓Potential for non-competitive rehire eligibility
- ✓Access to a variety of federal employee resources
💡 How to Apply Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Park Guide (Seasonal-Ful) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Review the full job announcement to understand technical requirements.
- Prepare a resume that specifically lists duties, start/end dates, and weekly hours worked.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, such as transcripts or veteran preference documentation.
- Submit your application package before the July 29, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will not be considered.
- Clearly annotate part-time versus full-time hours to ensure your experience is calculated correctly.
- Do not include personal photographs or Adobe portfolio documents in your application.
- Check your application status regularly by logging into your account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Park Guide do on a daily basis?
Park Guides staff visitor centers, answer visitor inquiries, lead small group walks, present educational programs, and assist with backcountry safety and permitting.
Is government housing provided?
Government housing may be available at certain locations, but it is not guaranteed. Applicants should contact the specific park for current availability.