Embark on a Meaningful Career: Park Ranger (Interpretation) with the National Park Service

Are you looking for a career that combines public service, history, and education? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently seeking passionate professionals to fill Park Ranger (Interpretation) roles at the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. These positions offer a unique opportunity to work in historically significant locations while engaging with visitors from around the globe.

Key Responsibilities

As a Park Ranger, your duties will focus on public engagement and resource management. Responsibilities include:

Developing Interpretive Programs: Create and deliver guided talks, walks, and evening programs that connect park themes to visitor interests.
Visitor Services: Staff contact stations and visitor centers to provide essential information and safety guidance.
Education: Design and present curriculum-based programs for visiting school groups.
Stewardship: Actively promote Leave No Trace principles and protect park resources.
Mentorship: At higher grade levels, provide leadership and work direction to volunteers and seasonal staff.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding experience and education.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement	GS-07 Level	GS-09 Level
Specialized Experience	1 year at GS-05 level	1 year at GS-07 level
Education	1 year graduate study	2 years graduate study
Alternative	Superior Academic Achievement	Master's Degree

Salary and Work Schedule

These are career-seasonal positions. This means they are permanent roles, but they are not year-round. You will work for most of the year and transition into a non-pay status for the remainder, allowing for a healthy work-life balance that suits many lifestyles.

Richland, WA: $50,460 - $80,243 per year.
Los Alamos, NM: $51,007 - $81,114 per year.

Benefits

NPS employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Federal health insurance and life insurance coverage.
Retirement planning via the Thrift Savings Plan.
Paid federal leave and holiday time.
Support for ongoing professional training.

Application Tips

Tailor your resume: Ensure your resume clearly lists the hours per week you worked for each position to verify your eligibility.
Submit Transcripts: If you are using education to qualify, ensure your transcripts show all required information, including GPA and conferral dates.
Prepare for Assessments: The USA Hire assessment is a key part of the process. Plan for the time required to complete it thoroughly.

Becoming a Park Ranger at the Manhattan Project National Historical Park is an opportunity to protect history and inspire the public. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute to the mission of the NPS, ensure your application is submitted by November 12, 2026.

Why This Park Ranger (Interpretation) Job Matters

Bring history to life and inspire the next generation as a Park Ranger for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.

Park Ranger (Interpretation) Job Overview

The National Park Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join the team at the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. As a Park Ranger (Interpretation), you will serve as a vital bridge between the park's significant historical resources and the visiting public. This position involves developing engaging programs, providing educational services, and promoting stewardship of national treasures at locations in either Los Alamos, New Mexico, or Richland, Washington.

Requirements for Park Ranger (Interpretation)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must be able to pass a background investigation.
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Must comply with uniform standards.
Must obtain and maintain a government travel charge card.

Preferred Qualifications for Park Ranger (Interpretation)

Proven experience in developing and presenting formal interpretive programs.
Strong background in natural resources, history, or education-related fields.
Demonstrated ability to lead groups and mentor seasonal staff or volunteers.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA of 3.0+ or class standing in the top third).
Advanced graduate education in relevant social or natural sciences.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

💡 How to Apply Park Ranger (Interpretation) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Park Ranger (Interpretation) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages).
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Attach all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable).
Complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly states hours worked per week to verify your experience.
Double-check that all transcripts meet the specific requirements listed (e.g., school name, GPA, conferral date).
Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire Assessment.
Do not include personal photographs or Adobe portfolio files.
Verify that your resume is formatted within the specified margin and font size requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the locations?

Both locations are within the Manhattan Project National Historical Park but serve different regions. The Richland, WA position typically runs from January to mid-December, while the Los Alamos, NM position runs from mid-January to December.

Can I qualify with only education?

Yes, you may qualify through graduate education or a combination of education and experience, provided the major field of study is directly related to the role and documentation is submitted.

Can I telework?

These roles are primarily on-site; telework is generally limited to emergency or natural disaster scenarios.

Do I need a background check?

Yes, all positions are subject to background investigation and adjudication.

Job from National Park Service

The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to preserving our nation's natural and cultural treasures. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park commemorates the complex history of the dawn of the atomic age, and rangers are essential in helping the public navigate and understand these profound stories. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that future generations understand the events that shaped the modern world.