Launch Your Career: Visitor Services Information Assistant at the Forest Service
Are you passionate about the great outdoors and dedicated to public service? The USDA Forest Service is currently looking for a motivated individual to fill the position of Visitor Services Information Assistant in the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area. This is a unique opportunity to combine your administrative expertise with your love for conservation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Visitor Services Information Assistant (GS-6/7), you will serve as the face of the agency for guests visiting the Columbia River Gorge. Key duties include:
- Public Guidance: Providing visitors with accurate information regarding forest rules, safety procedures, and recreational opportunities.
- Visitor Center Operations: Ensuring the information desk is staffed and operational to provide prompt service.
- Financial Administration: Acting as a unit collection officer, handling the sale of timber permits, maps, and passes, and reconciling funds.
- Information Management: Creating and maintaining brochures, safety flyers, and informational handouts using word processing software.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 1959).
- Successful completion of a background investigation.
- Proficiency in professional communication and record-keeping.
| Level | Specialized Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-6 | 1 year equivalent to GS-5 (Visitor support, record keeping) |
| GS-7 | 1 year equivalent to GS-6 (Public info, collection officer duties) |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $48,927 to $70,682 per year. Beyond the base pay, employees may have access to federal benefits, which can include daycare facilities and, in some cases, government housing, depending on availability.
Application Tips
- Resume Strictness: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Overly long resumes lead to automatic disqualification.
- Documentation: Ensure all documents, such as unofficial transcripts, are readable and in allowed formats.
- Submission: Always submit your application well before the deadline to avoid potential system latency.
Joining the Forest Service as a Visitor Services Information Assistant is more than just a job; it is a commitment to stewardship. If you possess the experience and dedication to support our public lands, apply now and help us protect the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.
Why This Visitor Services Information Assistant Job Matters
Launch your career in the heart of nature with the USDA Forest Service as a Visitor Services Information Assistant in the scenic Columbia River Gorge.
Visitor Services Information Assistant Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking a dedicated Visitor Services Information Assistant to provide world-class service at the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area in Bridal Veil, Oregon. This role is essential for ensuring that visitors to our public lands receive accurate guidance, assistance, and educational information while maintaining efficient administrative and financial operations at our visitor center.
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 successfully pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must agree to a one-year probationary period.
- Must be eligible for federal payment via direct deposit.
- Must pass a background investigation/fingerprint check.
Preferred Qualifications for Visitor Services Information Assistant
- For GS-6: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-5, including visitor support, record keeping, and document production.
- For GS-7: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-6, including public information dissemination, inventory management, and serving as a collection officer.
- Strong proficiency in word processing and office administrative software.
- Experience in developing educational, recreational, or interpretive materials.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
- ✓Potential access to Forest Service daycare facilities.
- ✓Potential eligibility for government housing.
- ✓Contribution to the management of 193 million acres of public land.
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
💡 How to Apply Visitor Services Information Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Visitor Services Information Assistant Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and instructions thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the provided link.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your electronic application by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions hours worked per week and dates of employment for each position.
- Keep your resume strictly under the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, JPG, DOC, etc.) and under 5MB.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive status updates.
- Start your application early to allow time for technical troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the specialized experience requirements?
No, there is no substitution of education for the specialized experience required for this position.
What is the primary location for this job?
This position is located in the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area in Bridal Veil, Oregon.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Applications with resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.
Is a security clearance required?
A security clearance is not required, but the position is subject to background investigation and/or fingerprinting for suitability and fitness.
Is telework available?
No, this position is currently not listed as telework-eligible.
Who can I contact for help?
For specific questions, you may contact the Forest Service HRM Contact Center at 1-877-372-7248 ext. 2.
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of the nation's most magnificent landscapes. From conducting vital research to providing technical assistance to state forestry agencies, the Forest Service plays a critical role in preserving our natural heritage. Employees enjoy a fulfilling career that directly contributes to the sustainability and accessibility of our public lands.