Become a Field Unit Livestock Handler at Yellowstone National Park
Are you looking for a career that combines your love for livestock with the majesty of the American wilderness? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently seeking a dedicated Field Unit Local (FUL) Livestock Handler to join the team at Yellowstone National Park. This role is essential to maintaining the park's famous remuda of over 110 horses and mules, which serve as the backbone for backcountry operations across the park's 2.2 million acres.
About the National Park Service
The National Park Service, a bureau of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural resources of the United States. Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park, serves as a unique workplace where employees actively protect wildlife, manage vast wilderness trails, and educate millions of visitors annually. Working here means contributing to a mission that transcends generations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Livestock Handler, your days will be physically active and diverse. You will not be stuck behind a desk; instead, you will be in the field and the barn, ensuring the health and capability of the park's livestock. Key duties include:
- Livestock Care: Administering medical treatments, feeding, and grooming large herds.
- Operational Support: Assisting in barn maintenance and daily facility operations.
- Field Work: Working green horses for bison management in both pen settings and open-country hazing.
- Farrier Duties: Providing necessary horseshoeing to ensure animal comfort and safety.
- Instruction: Assisting with training other park personnel in riding and handling techniques.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria set forth by the Field Unit Local hiring authority:
- Residency: You must reside within specific counties in Montana, Wyoming, or Idaho.
- Documentation: A strict two-page resume limit is enforced.
- Physical Standards: Ability to lift over 50 pounds and perform strenuous outdoor labor.
- Licensing: A valid driver's license is required for the operation of heavy trucks.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $33.37 – $38.93 per hour |
| Schedule | Career-Seasonal |
| Location | Yellowstone National Park, MT |
| Benefits | Federal Health & Retirement Plans |
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Use your two pages to highlight direct experience with livestock. Avoid vague descriptors and use action verbs to explain your previous duties.
- Verify Residency: Ensure your proof of residence documentation (lease, deed, or utility bill) is clearly uploaded and current.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the deadline. Ensure your application is complete, as incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Is prior experience with mules required?
While specific mule experience is a plus, general livestock handling, medical care, and a strong work ethic are the core requirements.
Working as a Livestock Handler in Yellowstone is more than just a job; it is a lifestyle that supports the preservation of a national treasure. If you meet the residency requirements and have the stamina for high-alpine, backcountry work, we encourage you to submit your application and start your journey with the National Park Service today.
Why This Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler Job Matters
Turn your passion for the outdoors into a career by joining the elite team managing the legendary Yellowstone remuda as a Field Unit Local Livestock Handler.
Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a skilled Field Unit Local (FUL) Livestock Handler to join the Division of Resource and Visitor Protection at Yellowstone National Park. In this vital, hands-on role, you will work directly with a herd of over 110 horses and mules, supporting critical backcountry operations across 2.2 million acres. This career-seasonal position offers the unique opportunity to work in one of the world's most iconic landscapes, performing essential duties ranging from animal care and training to facility operations in remote, challenging environments.
Requirements for Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with specific educational/vocational conditions).
- Must reside within the defined local commuting area in Montana (Gallatin or Park counties), Wyoming (Park, Sublette, or Teton counties), or Idaho (Fremont County).
- Must hold and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must pass a background investigation and E-Verify check.
- Must register for Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting (50+ lbs) and strenuous physical tasks.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two single-sided pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler
- Direct experience handling livestock in open country and pen settings.
- Proven capability in equine medical treatment and care.
- Practical experience in horseshoeing and farrier techniques.
- Demonstrated ability to train other personnel in safe riding techniques.
- Proficiency in maintaining facility infrastructure and barns.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employment benefits including health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Career-seasonal status allows for a predictable work-life balance.
- ✓Unique professional experience in a world-renowned National Park.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of the Interior.
💡 How to Apply Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Field Unit Local (Ful) Livestock Handler Job
- Verify your residency within the eligible counties to meet the Field Unit Local requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages, focusing on your relevant livestock experience.
- Gather proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or property deed).
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload your documents.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of November 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Ensure your proof of residency is recent and clearly shows your location within the designated counties.
- Double-check your resume to ensure it emphasizes hands-on experience with livestock rather than just job titles.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS dashboard to stay updated on the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a year-round position?
No, this is a career-seasonal position. You will typically work from January through mid-November and December, with a non-pay status period during the late fall.
What is the Field Unit Local hiring authority?
This authority limits competition to residents living within a specific commuting area to ensure staff can quickly respond to the needs of the field unit.
What does 'career-seasonal' mean?
It means you have a permanent appointment with federal benefits, but the work is seasonal. You will be in a non-pay status for a portion of the winter months.