Become a Park Ranger: Shaping the Future of Timucuan Preserve
The National Park Service (NPS) offers a unique career path that allows you to blend your passion for history and nature with a commitment to public service. As a Park Ranger specializing in Interpretation at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Jacksonville, Florida, you will play an essential role in preserving our nation's cultural and natural treasures. This position is perfect for communicators, educators, and nature enthusiasts looking to build a career within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
As an interpretive Park Ranger, your primary duty is to translate complex information into compelling stories for park visitors. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and leading in-person interpretive programs and tours.
- Creating digital and physical educational media, such as brochures, signage, and online content.
- Coordinating youth programs and community workshops.
- Assisting with administrative tasks and visitor facility management.
- Mentoring junior staff and providing high-level program support.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Reside within a 50-mile radius of Jacksonville, Florida.
- Possess a valid driver's license.
- Successfully complete a background investigation.
- Be comfortable working in outdoor conditions, including during holidays and weekends.
Salary and Grade Comparison
The position is open at various grade levels depending on experience. The following table provides a breakdown of potential compensation:
| Grade Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-05 | $40,736 - $52,957 |
| GS-07 | $50,460 - $65,599 |
| GS-09 | $61,722 - $80,243 |
Benefits
Joining the federal workforce grants you access to:
- Comprehensive health and insurance plans.
- Defined benefit retirement packages.
- Paid time off, including sick and annual leave.
- Opportunities for continuous professional growth and career mobility.
Application Tips
Standing out in a federal applicant pool requires attention to detail. Ensure your resume specifically outlines your work history, including weekly hours, and adheres strictly to the two-page limit. Always verify that your residency documentation clearly proves your location within the required 50-mile zone of the preserve.
Serving as a Park Ranger is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the stewardship of American heritage. If you are ready to engage with the public, share stories, and grow your career, apply to join the team at Timucuan today.
Why This Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful Job Matters
Transform history into inspiration! Join the National Park Service in Jacksonville, Florida, as a Park Ranger and help connect the public to the stories and natural beauty of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.
Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Park Ranger (Interpretation) to join our team at the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Jacksonville, Florida. In this role, you will act as a bridge between the public and our natural and historic resources, facilitating educational programs, tours, and outreach efforts that foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and cultural history. Whether designing curriculum, managing visitor experiences, or leading youth programs, your work will directly contribute to the preservation of our nation's heritage.
Requirements for Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must reside within 50 miles of the duty station (12713 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL).
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must be at least 18 years old to operate government vehicles.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability assessment.
- Must be able to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
- Must comply with mandatory uniform standards.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful
- Specialized experience in park guide work, law enforcement, or archaeological research.
- Proven ability to develop interpretive curricula, tours, and digital media content.
- Strong skills in public speaking, workshop facilitation, and youth program coordination.
- Experience in mentoring, coaching, or leading small teams.
- Academic background in natural resource management, history, anthropology, or public administration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plans.
- ✓Federal leave policies including annual, sick, and federal holidays.
- ✓Career development and training opportunities within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Uniform allowance for official duty apparel.
- ✓Access to a variety of government-wide employee support services.
💡 How to Apply Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Park Ranger (Interpretation) - Ful Job
- Review the full announcement and prepare your documents.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Develop or upload a federal-style resume (max 2 pages).
- Gather proof of residency within 50 miles of Jacksonville, FL.
- Complete the online questionnaire.
- Submit your resume, transcripts, and residency documentation before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume lists exact hours worked per week for all previous roles.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as longer submissions will not be reviewed.
- Provide clear, readable transcripts if you are using education to qualify.
- Clearly label your residency documentation; an SF-50 will not suffice as proof of address.
- Double-check that all contact information and employment dates are accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the residency requirement for this position?
You must maintain a permanent residence within 50 miles of the duty station in Jacksonville, Florida, at the time of application.
Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?
No, the resume must not exceed two single-sided pages. Any portion exceeding two pages will not be reviewed by the staffing office.
Is travel required for this job?
The position may require occasional overnight travel, and you must be willing to obtain a government-issued charge card for official travel expenses.
What if my degree is from a foreign university?
*A: You must provide a credential evaluation from a recognized organization to prove equivalency to a U.S. degree.*
Is there promotion potential?
*A: Yes, this position has a promotion potential up to GS-09, depending on performance and merit-based criteria.*
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, a branch of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to protecting over 400 national parks across the United States. The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve is a premier destination that safeguards both expansive salt marshes and the rich history of the Timucuan people. Employees here work in a dynamic environment where resource management meets public education.