Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Seasonal Animal Caretaker in Olympic National Park
If you have a passion for the outdoors, experience with pack animals, and a desire to serve in one of America's most iconic landscapes, the National Park Service (NPS) has the perfect opportunity for you. We are hiring Seasonal Animal Caretakers to support our vital operations in Olympic National Park.
About the National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to preserving our nation’s natural and cultural resources for future generations. Working with us means more than just a job; it is a commitment to the stewardship of our public lands. Our staff at Olympic National Park work diligently to maintain the trails, support backcountry operations, and ensure that our stock animals are healthy, well-managed, and prepared for their crucial roles.
Job Responsibilities
As an Animal Caretaker, your role is multifaceted, blending animal husbandry with wilderness operations. Key duties include:
- Animal Nutrition: Ensuring stock animals receive proper rations and nutrition during both light and heavy workloads.
- Veterinary Care: Performing basic care, including worming, vaccinations, wound dressing, and medication administration.
- Farrier Duties: Maintaining the hooves of pack animals at regular intervals to prevent injury.
- Backcountry Logistics: Leading strings of up to 8-head over rough terrain, involving long days on the trail and multi-day camping trips in remote settings.
- Equipment Maintenance: Safely operating vehicles, power tools, and hand tools in rugged conditions.
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Age | 21 years or older |
| License | Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) |
| Security | Must pass a background investigation |
| Drug/Alcohol | Pre-employment and random testing is mandatory |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $31.56 to $36.82. Employees receive a uniform allowance to comply with agency standards and may have access to government housing, making it easier to integrate into the park community.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Federal resumes differ from private-sector versions. Ensure every duty you claim is backed by specific, documented experience.
- Adhere to Formatting: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
- Submit Early: With a limit of 80 applicants, the portal may close before the 11/02/2026 deadline. Do not wait until the last minute.
Working as an Animal Caretaker in Olympic National Park is more than a seasonal job; it is an experience that challenges you, builds your skills, and connects you to the heart of the National Park System. If you are ready for a summer of adventure, apply today.
Why This Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal) Job Matters
Embark on an epic adventure as an Animal Caretaker in Olympic National Park—where your daily office is the rugged beauty of Washington's wilderness.
Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking dedicated and rugged individuals to join our team as seasonal Animal Caretakers. In this essential role, you will be the backbone of our pack operations, ensuring the health, safety, and performance of our stock animals. Whether navigating backcountry trails or managing stable operations, you will contribute directly to the preservation of Olympic National Park. This position offers a unique chance to work outdoors in one of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.
Requirements for Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and random drug/alcohol testing.
- Must clear a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Willingness to wear a uniform and adhere to agency standards.
- Must be physically capable of hiking up to 20 miles per day in rugged, steep terrain.
Preferred Qualifications for Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal)
- Proven experience in handling and caring for pack stock in backcountry settings.
- Demonstrated ability to perform farrier duties.
- Prior experience in providing veterinary care, such as vaccinating and administering medication.
- Strong navigation skills and experience in remote, multi-day camping environments.
- Proficiency in operating heavy machinery or specialized equipment in outdoor environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wage
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Opportunities for government housing
- ✓Immersive experience in National Park operations
- ✓Professional training in federal safety and operational standards
💡 How to Apply Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Animal Caretaker (Packer) (Seasonal) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, using a minimum 10-point font.
- Gather necessary documentation, including your Class A CDL and any veterans' preference materials.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of 11/02/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly detail your specific experience; hiring officials will not infer duties from job titles alone.
- Ensure your resume reflects the specific job elements listed in the announcement to maximize your rating.
- Double-check your application for clarity, as resumes over two pages will not be accepted.
- Apply early, as the announcement may close early if 80 applications are received before the final deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is housing provided?
Government housing may be available, but it is not guaranteed. Applicants should contact the park directly for details.
What is the physical requirement for this job?
The role is physically demanding. You must be able to lift up to 100 lbs, hike up to 20 miles a day, and work in all weather conditions.
Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?
No, your resume must be strictly limited to two pages. Additional pages will not be reviewed.
What if I don't have a Class A CDL?
*A: A valid Class A CDL is a mandatory requirement for this role and acts as a screening-out factor. You must possess this at the time of application.*
How often will I be in the backcountry?
*A: You may be required to spend up to eight consecutive nights in a backcountry setting as part of your regular duties.*