Embark on a Wilderness Career: Animal Packer and Caretaker Roles at the National Park Service

If you have a passion for horses, mules, and the rugged beauty of the American wilderness, the National Park Service (NPS) has an opportunity that fits your lifestyle. As a seasonal Animal Packer and Caretaker at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you will serve a vital function in preserving our national landscape by supporting the teams that maintain our backcountry trails.

Job Responsibilities

This position is far more than just caring for livestock; it is about logistical support in some of the most remote parts of California. Your primary responsibilities include:

Animal Care: Feeding, grooming, and training 6 to 10 mules and 4 to 6 horses.
Packer Duties: Loading food, tools, and heavy equipment onto pack stock to support trail crews.
Farrier Work: Trimming and emergency shoeing of stock in the field.
Vehicle Operations: Driving heavy trucks and trailers over mountain roads and conducting routine maintenance.
Backcountry Life: Living in remote wilderness environments for extended periods, enduring harsh weather and rugged terrain.

Comparison: Standard vs. Backcountry Animal Care

Feature	Standard Farm/Stable Care	NPS Backcountry Packer
Setting	Controlled, accessible barns	Remote, primitive wilderness
Equipment	Fixed facilities	Specialized tack and pack rigging
Logistics	Minimal	Complex, weight-critical packing
Environment	Predictable	Extreme temperatures, storms, smoke

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work with minimal supervision. You will be evaluated on your aptitude for interpreting technical instructions, equipment maintenance, and your ability to work safely in hazardous conditions.

Key requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
A valid driver's license.
Ability to pass drug and alcohol screenings.
Willingness to work in physically taxing environments.
Adherence to uniform standards.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive federal wage ranging from $22.36 to $26.07 per hour. Rates are set according to federal pay scales for seasonal positions.

Benefits

While this is a temporary, seasonal appointment, employees enjoy benefits such as provided uniform allowances and the unique privilege of working in one of the world's most protected environments. Government housing may be available, though it is not guaranteed.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Your resume is your primary evidence. Clearly articulate your experience with livestock and heavy equipment.
Follow Formatting: Adhere strictly to the two-page, 10-point font, and margin requirements. Deviations lead to automatic disqualification.
Be Specific: Describe the weight of loads you have handled and the types of animals you have managed to demonstrate your proficiency against the 'screen-out' factor.
Apply Early: With a limit on the number of applicants accepted, waiting until the closing date is risky.

How long is the work day?

Hours can be long and irregular. You may be required to work on-call, weekends, holidays, and overtime as project needs dictate.

Becoming an Animal Packer and Caretaker is a lifestyle commitment. If you are ready for a challenging season that rewards hard work with breathtaking views and a direct impact on our national parks, apply today.

Why This Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal) Job Matters

Embark on an extraordinary career in the wilderness: Help maintain the historic trails of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks as a professional Animal Packer and Caretaker.

Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal) Job Overview

The National Park Service is seeking dedicated individuals for seasonal Animal Packer and Caretaker positions. In this role, you will be the backbone of backcountry operations, ensuring that 6 to 10 mules and 4 to 6 horses remain healthy, trained, and ready to support critical trail crews. You will work in one of the most iconic landscapes in the United States, performing essential logistical duties that keep our national treasures accessible and well-maintained. This is a seasonal, physically demanding, and highly rewarding opportunity for those who love animal husbandry and backcountry life.

Requirements for Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with specific educational credentials).
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must pass a pre-employment alcohol and drug test.
Ability to obtain and maintain a National Park Service Explosives Handler certification.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Must successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
Must be able to live and work in remote, mountainous wilderness for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications for Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal)

Strong proficiency in farrier duties, including emergency field shoeing and trimming.
Experience in training and correcting behavioral issues in mules and horses.
Proven experience operating heavy trucks and trailers on narrow, winding mountain roads.
Ability to perform minor mechanical repairs on vehicles and equipment.
Documented experience in backcountry logistics and packing operations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Government housing (subject to availability).
✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Opportunities for professional training, including explosives handling.
✓Competitive hourly pay with federal pay scales.
✓Unique experience contributing to the preservation of National Park assets.

💡 How to Apply Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Animal Packer And Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement at the official federal job portal.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages, adhering to the 10-point minimum font and 0.5-inch margin requirements.
Preview the assessment questionnaire to ensure you can support your claims with your resume experience.
Submit your online application including all required documentation before the limit of 80 applicants or the closing date.
Monitor your status via your online account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Focus your resume on specific skills related to animal care and equipment maintenance; do not rely on job titles alone to explain your expertise.
Ensure your resume strictly follows the 2-page limit, as longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
Be descriptive in your resume regarding the volume and weight of materials you have packed to satisfy the 'screen-out' requirements.
Double-check that you have removed all photographs from your application package, as this is grounds for disqualification.
Apply early, as this announcement closes once 80 applicants have been received.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical season length for this position?

The season typically runs for up to 1039 hours, generally occurring between April and October, depending on weather, funding, and project needs.

Is government housing provided?

Housing is not guaranteed but may be available. You should contact the specific park directly to inquire about current housing availability.

What are the physical requirements for this job?

This role is physically demanding. You must be capable of lifting 50-100 lbs, riding horses for up to 25 miles per day, and working in extreme temperatures ranging from freezing cold to over 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

What if I have never worked for the government before?

This is a great entry point. The position is open to the public, and you will receive comprehensive training regarding your duties.

Job from National Park Service

The National Park Service (NPS) is a bureau of the Department of the Interior. Its mission is to preserve the natural and cultural resources of the National Park System. By joining the NPS, you contribute to a legacy of conservation, ensuring these lands remain available for the enjoyment of future generations.