Become a Park Ranger with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska

Are you looking for a career that combines public service with the raw, untamed beauty of the Alaskan wilderness? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently hiring a Park Ranger to serve at the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge in Kotzebue, Alaska. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about conservation, environmental education, and building community ties.

Job Responsibilities

As a Park Ranger, you will wear many hats. Your primary responsibilities include:

Environmental Education: Designing and implementing educational programs and media materials.
Partnership Building: Engaging with Tribes, local government, businesses, and community organizations.
Program Management: Managing special use permits and ensuring compliance with refuge regulations.
Supervision: Recruiting and training interns, volunteers, and other staff members.

Comparison: GS-09 vs. GS-11 Expectations

Feature	GS-09 Level	GS-11 Level
Scope of Responsibility	Developing programs & curricula	Directing & coordinating major programs
Liaison Role	Routine visitor information	Strategic communication plans
Leadership	Team support/collaboration	Full oversight of staff & volunteers

Requirements

Candidates must meet stringent federal qualifications, including:

U.S. Citizenship or National status.
Ability to pass a background investigation.
Possession of a valid driver's license.
Compliance with uniform requirements.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $69,789 to $109,777 annually. In addition to a federal salary, employees may be eligible for a variety of benefits, including government housing options, uniform allowances, and federal insurance packages.

Application Tips

Watch Your Length: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Excessive pages will be discarded.
Document Everything: Include your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment after submitting your initial application.

This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of Alaska’s unique ecosystem. If you are ready for a challenging and rewarding career in one of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world, submit your application today.

Why This Park Ranger Job Matters

Embark on a unique career in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, where your work directly supports the conservation of America's natural heritage with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Park Ranger Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Park Ranger for the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge in Kotzebue, Alaska. This role is pivotal in managing environmental education programs, cultivating community partnerships, and overseeing essential refuge operations. Ideal for those who thrive in rugged environments, this position offers a unique chance to balance administrative leadership with immersive outdoor stewardship in one of the most stunning landscapes in the country.

Requirements for Park Ranger

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Ability to successfully pass a background investigation.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must comply with mandatory uniform standards.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-59.
Participation in direct deposit.
Successful completion of the E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Park Ranger

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 (for GS-09 applicants) or GS-09 (for GS-11 applicants) grade level.
Graduate education in a field directly related to the position's mission.
Proven experience in developing environmental education curricula or outreach communication plans.
Demonstrated ability to manage or direct staff, interns, and volunteers.
Experience in permit administration and inter-agency or Tribal liaison work.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Possible government quarters (subject to approval).
✓Comprehensive federal health and insurance programs.
✓Retirement planning and investment opportunities.
✓Work-life balance with defined holiday and leave policies.

💡 How to Apply Park Ranger Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Park Ranger Job

Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting specialized experience in month-year format.
Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment after submission if notified.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Use clear 'month-year' formatting for all job history dates.
Highlight specific hours worked per week if you are not a current federal employee.
Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment.
Double-check that all required documents are attached before the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Telework is limited to emergency or natural disaster scenarios.

What is the maximum resume length?

Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages. Documents exceeding this length will not be reviewed.

Do I need to be a federal employee to apply?

No, the position is open to various hiring paths, though specific requirements apply to each.

Can I request reasonable accommodation?

Yes, requests for accommodation regarding the USA Hire assessment should be handled through the online application process.

Will I need to carry a firearm?

In certain field conditions, rangers may be required to carry a firearm for protection against wildlife.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior (DOI) manages the nation's natural and cultural heritage. Within the DOI, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plays a critical role in conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, and plant populations. Working for the FWS means joining a dedicated team committed to protecting the environment for the benefit of the American people.