Lead at the Helm of Mammoth Cave: A Guide to the Park Manager Opportunity
The National Park Service (NPS) stands as the guardian of America's most cherished landscapes and cultural landmarks. Among these, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky holds a special place as the world’s longest known cave system. We are currently looking for an experienced, visionary Park Manager (GS-15) to provide leadership and strategic direction for this exceptional site. This is a temporary detail or promotion not to exceed one year, offering a unique opportunity to influence the operations of a premier national park.
Job Responsibilities
As a Park Manager, you will serve as the primary executive authority for Mammoth Cave. Your day-to-day work involves:
- Operations Management: Developing and executing comprehensive plans for the maintenance, protection, and daily function of the park.
- Community Relations: Acting as a liaison between the park and diverse stakeholder groups, including tribal councils, local businesses, and environmental organizations.
- Resource Restoration: Overseeing the management of natural resources to ensure long-term preservation.
- Team Leadership: Mentoring staff, delegating responsibilities, and coordinating interdisciplinary work plans.
Requirements
To qualify for this senior-level position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Specialized Experience | 1 year at the GS-14 level equivalent |
| Security | Moderate Risk (MR) suitability check |
| Travel | Occasional, including field inspections |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-15 grade level, with an annual salary range of $147,945 to $192,331. Compensation is determined by federal pay scales and commensurate with experience and organizational guidelines.
Benefits
Working with the Department of the Interior provides access to a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
- Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Government uniform allowance for required dress codes.
- Opportunities for telework.
Application Tips
Your application package must be precise. Because resumes are limited to two pages, every sentence should count. Highlight your experience in land management, public program supervision, and strategic decision-making. Ensure your resume clearly states the hours worked per week and includes month-year formatting for all positions.
Serving as the Park Manager at Mammoth Cave National Park is more than just a job; it is a chance to steward a world-class natural resource. If you possess the leadership skills and the passion for conservation, we invite you to review the full requirements and submit your application before the November 18, 2026, deadline.
Why This Park Manager Job Matters
Lead one of America’s most iconic natural wonders: Join the National Park Service as a Park Manager at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Park Manager Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a high-level leader to serve as Park Manager at Mammoth Cave National Park. This pivotal role involves overseeing complex operations, developing strategic management plans, and fostering vital partnerships to ensure the preservation and public enjoyment of this world-renowned cave system. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced professional to shape the future of land management and public engagement in a high-impact supervisory capacity.
Requirements for Park Manager
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must be able to pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must register for Selective Service.
- Must obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase charge card.
- Must comply with mandatory uniform standards.
- Financial disclosure report required within 30 days of appointment.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
Preferred Qualifications for Park Manager
- Expertise in land management policy development.
- Proven experience in directing park operations through direct and indirect supervision.
- Strong background in public relations and community engagement.
- Demonstrated ability in managing diverse programs, including interpretation and environmental education.
- Success in developing and advancing partnerships to support organizational missions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance programs
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Government uniform allowance provided
- ✓Telework opportunities (with supervisor approval)
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓On-site government housing availability
💡 How to Apply Park Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Park Manager Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Ensure your resume meets the 2-page limit and clearly states hours worked per week.
- Complete the online application questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Attach all required documents, including your latest SF-50 (if applicable) and performance appraisal.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 18, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on specialized experience that directly aligns with the GS-15 level responsibilities.
- Clearly denote if your experience was 'full-time' or include the exact hours per week worked.
- Ensure your resume is formatted with at least 0.5-inch margins and a minimum 10-point font.
- Check your USAJOBS account status regularly for automated updates after submission.
- Avoid using technical jargon that obscures your accomplishments; emphasize leadership results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and the specific operational requirements of the park.
What is the maximum length of this appointment?
This position is a temporary promotion or detail not to exceed one year, though it may be made permanent without further competition.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific position does not allow for the substitution of education for the required specialized professional experience.
What is the work environment like?
While largely sedentary/office-based, the role requires field inspections in cave environments and meeting rooms, sometimes under high-pressure conditions.
Is government housing available?
Yes, government housing is available for this position.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the National Park Service work in tandem to preserve the ecological, historical, and cultural integrity of federal lands. Employees at the NPS are part of a mission-driven community dedicated to the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations. Joining this team means contributing to a legacy of conservation that spans across the entire United States.