Launch Your Career in the Great Outdoors: Visitor Services Information Assistant
Are you passionate about nature, public service, and the preservation of our national forests? The USDA Forest Service is looking for a dynamic and organized individual to join our team in Kernville, California. As a Visitor Services Information Assistant, you will act as the face of the Sequoia National Forest, helping thousands of visitors discover the beauty of our public lands.
About the Forest Service
The Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands. By joining our team, you contribute to a legacy of conservation, research, and public education. We provide a collaborative environment where employees can grow their skills while making a tangible impact on the environment.
Your Role and Responsibilities
The Visitor Services Information Assistant is a high-visibility role centered around front-desk operations. Your primary duties include:
- Visitor Assistance: Providing accurate information regarding park regulations, safety, and recreational activities.
- Operations Management: Overseeing the daily opening and closing of the visitor center, handling phones, and maintaining facilities.
- Retail & Inventory: Managing merchandise, processing sales, and ensuring accurate control of monies collected.
- Communication: Acting as a liaison between the public and agency staff to ensure visitor needs are met while maintaining resource protection.
Qualifications and Requirements
This position requires someone with prior experience in a customer-facing or administrative role.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen or National |
| Experience | 1 Year of Specialized GS-5 Level Experience |
| Documentation | 2-Page Limit Resume |
| Legal | Clean Background Check & Selective Service compliance |
Salary and Benefits
The starting salary for this position ranges from $52,938 to $68,819 per year. Beyond base pay, the Forest Service offers federal benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement options, and the possibility of onsite housing or daycare support.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires careful attention to detail. Ensure your resume highlights your specialized experience clearly. You must apply electronically through the official portal before the deadline. Do not forget to attach your transcripts if required and confirm your documents are uploaded in an acceptable format like PDF or DOCX.
If you are ready for a career that combines customer service with a passion for the great outdoors, this is your opportunity. Apply today and help the Forest Service continue its vital mission in Kernville.
Why This Visitor Services Information Assistant Job Matters
Join the Sequoia National Forest team as a Visitor Services Information Assistant and become the face of our nation's most magnificent landscapes.
Visitor Services Information Assistant Job Overview
The Forest Service is seeking a dedicated individual to serve as a Visitor Services Information Assistant in Kernville, California. In this role, you will be the primary point of contact for the public, managing front-desk operations, facilitating visitor inquiries, and overseeing the sale of recreation permits and merchandise. This position is vital for ensuring that visitors to the Sequoia National Forest have a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience while protecting our natural resources.
Requirements for Visitor Services Information Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must be willing to complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must receive federal payments via direct deposit.
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Resume must not exceed two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Visitor Services Information Assistant
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level in Federal service.
- Proven ability to manage reception areas, answer visitor inquiries, and handle daily facility operations.
- Demonstrated skill in organizing and arranging interpretive displays.
- Experience in financial transactions, such as handling receipts and managing inventory for sales.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Potential for government housing access
- ✓Potential access to Forest Service daycare facilities
💡 How to Apply Visitor Services Information Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Visitor Services Information Assistant Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Click the Apply button to enter the agency staffing system.
- Complete the Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation (transcripts, DD214 if applicable, etc.).
- Verify that all documents transferred correctly to the system.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, hours worked per week, and grade levels for past roles.
- If claiming veterans' preference, upload your DD214 and any necessary SF-15 documentation.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are in non-encrypted formats like PDF or Word.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to substitute for the specialized experience?
No, this position requires specific specialized experience as defined in the announcement; there is no substitution of education for this requirement.
Is government housing available for this position?
Government housing may be available, though it is not guaranteed. Please inquire during the interview process for the most current availability.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
Applications with resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be removed from consideration.