Lead the Legacy: Supervisory Park Ranger Opportunity at Yosemite
Are you looking to take your career in conservation and public service to new heights? Yosemite National Park is looking for a dynamic and experienced professional to fill the role of Supervisory Park Ranger (I). This unique position offers the chance to lead interpretive field operations at one of the most iconic landscapes on Earth.
Job Responsibilities
As the Branch Chief of Interpretive Field Operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping how visitors understand and interact with Yosemite. Your daily duties will include:
- Program Direction: Coordinating personal interpretive services and managing all related educational outreach.
- Fiscal Management: Developing and monitoring budgets for five operational units and planning long-term fiscal strategies.
- Leadership: Supervising a diverse team, including permanent staff (GS-9 through GS-12) and a seasonal workforce of over 60 individuals.
- Training and Development: Planning and conducting rigorous training programs for staff to ensure top-tier interpretive standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this position at the GS-12 level, you must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and prepared to undergo a background check. You must also maintain a valid driver's license and be prepared for the physical demands of working in an environment that spans elevations from 2,000 to 11,000 feet.
Comparison Table: Qualifications and Skills
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Experience Level | GS-11 equivalent required |
| Supervisory Scope | 6 permanent, 60+ seasonal staff |
| Citizenship | Required |
| Education | Not a substitute for experience |
| Location | Yosemite National Park, CA |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $89,959 to $116,949 per year, commensurate with federal GS-12 pay scales.
Benefits
Working for the Department of the Interior provides access to robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), paid leave, and opportunities for professional growth within the federal system.
Application Tips
- Focus on your Resume: Keep it to two pages, ensure all dates are in month-year format, and explicitly state hours worked per week.
- Documentation is Key: Don't forget your most recent performance appraisal. It is a critical component of your application package.
- Clarity over Complexity: Use clear, professional language to describe your accomplishments and management successes.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for a leader who is passionate about the National Park mission. If you meet the criteria and are ready to tackle the environmental and logistical challenges of one of America's most treasured parks, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Supervisory Park Ranger (I) Job Matters
Lead the interpretive vision of one of America's most iconic landscapes as a Supervisory Park Ranger in Yosemite National Park.
Supervisory Park Ranger (I) Job Overview
Yosemite National Park is seeking a dedicated leader to serve as a Supervisory Park Ranger (I). In this role, you will act as the Branch Chief of Interpretive Field Operations, providing professional expertise to ensure visitors connect deeply with the park's scientific and cultural narratives. You will oversee budget management, staff development, and the implementation of complex interpretive programs within this world-renowned wilderness. This is a temporary promotion or detail opportunity, not to exceed one year, with potential for extension up to five years.
Requirements for Supervisory Park Ranger (I)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Must maintain a government credit card for travel and purchase authority.
- Must comply with mandatory uniform standards.
- Required to serve a one-year probationary period.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements (GS-11 equivalent).
- Must be proficient in English with excellent oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Park Ranger (I)
- Proven track record in managing park interpretive programs.
- Demonstrated expertise in supervising large, diverse teams including both permanent and seasonal staff.
- Strong proficiency in fiscal planning and budget management for operational units.
- Experience developing partnerships to support park educational and cultural goals.
- Technical expertise in scientific and cultural content interpretation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS participation.
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Structured training and professional development.
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Access to federal career transition programs.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Park Ranger (I) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Park Ranger (I) Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and is strictly limited to 2 pages.
- Gather required supporting documents, including your most recent performance appraisal and relevant SF-50s.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Clearly document your specialized experience; use terms like 'full-time' or list '40 hours per week' to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Provide a detailed performance appraisal; if one is unavailable, provide a written statement explaining why.
- Proofread your application for clarity, professionalism, and any formatting errors.
- Double-check that all required SF-50s are uploaded to confirm your status and time-in-grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No, this position does not allow for the substitution of education for the required specialized experience.
What is the duration of this appointment?
This is a temporary promotion or detail, not to exceed one year. It may be extended for up to five years and could potentially become a permanent position.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) is a bureau of the Department of the Interior tasked with preserving the natural and cultural resources of the United States. Working at Yosemite means joining a team dedicated to the stewardship of diverse ecosystems, historic structures, and the millions of visitors who seek inspiration in these granite cliffs and lush valleys.