FUL-Park Ranger (Interpretation) (Seasonal)

This job announcement is open to the first 50 applicants or until 08/03/2026, whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration. This position is located in Frances Perkins National Monument, in the Interpretation Division. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period for this position is May - November, but this can vary due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: Sept 2026.

Major Duties:

• Coordinating the operation of a visitor facility and information desk, including developing daily work schedules for tours of duty and location of assignments.
• Developing and presenting a wide variety of formal and informal audience and learner-centred interpretive experiences using a variety of fully developed interpretive skills, techniques, and tools delivered in-person and through interpretive media and technology.
• Training, mentoring, coaching, and evaluating a broad range of interpretive programs and products conducted by fellow interpreters, critiquing these activities, and recommending individual or program improvements.
• Identifying effective customer service practices and facilitating a collaborative, proactive, and welcoming work environment.
• Coordinating the development and implementation of special projects from beginning to end.

Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations. The employees of the National Park Service care for special places that are the heritage of all Americans. Since its inception in 1916, the National Park Service has been dedicated to the preservation and management of this country's outstanding natural, historical, and recreational resources. Park ranger-interpreters connect people to parks. They play a key role in ensuring that visitors have a meaningful, satisfying, and safe park experience, help visitors decide how to spend their time in the park, and inform them about the wonders that await their discovery. Park ranger-interpreters are specially trained to engage the public so that each park visitor can find a personal connection with the meanings and values found in the places and stories of that park. They help visitors explore the many dimensions of parks by introducing them to a variety of perspectives. By providing the opportunity for visitors to care about the places they visit, they promote stewardship and the opportunity for those visitors to care for park resources. National parks are among the most remarkable places in America for recreation, learning, and inspiration. The work done by park ranger-interpreters through effective interpretive and educational programs encourages the development of a personal stewardship ethic and broadens public support for preserving and protecting park resources, so that they may be enjoyed by present and future generations.

Newcastle, Maine is a small, close-knit coastal community of just over 1,800 residents, known for its historic charm, scenic landscapes, and deep sense of place. Nestled along the Damariscotta River, it offers peaceful rural living with easy access to year-round amenities in the neighbouring twin villages of Newcastle and Damariscotta. The town provides a strong blend of heritage and modern life, with historic homes, working farms, and a vibrant village centre that supports local businesses, arts, and community traditions. Despite its tranquil feel, Newcastle is conveniently located: just 23 miles from Augusta and 41 miles from Portland, making regional services, cultural events, and transportation options readily accessible. For those working at the Frances Perkins National Monument, Newcastle offers an ideal home base—quiet, community-oriented, and deeply connected to the landscapes and stories that define this part of mid-coast Maine.

Education:

You must submit a copy of your transcript(s) to support claimed education if substituting education for experience. Transcripts must include your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, and date the degree was conferred, if applicable. A typed list of courses, grades, semester/quarter hours, GPA, etc. will not be accepted. Non-submission may result in being rated not qualified for the position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work. Foreign Education: To receive credit for education completed outside the United States, you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education has been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs.

Requirements:

• Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favourable adjudication.
• Males born after must be registered for Selective Service.
• Direct Deposit participation required.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
• You may be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties.
• You will also submit a photocopy of your valid State issued driver's license prior to your first official motor vehicle operation, and again every year, or more frequently if management determines such need exists.
• You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
• You may be required to work evenings and holidays.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old due to hazardous duties (i.e., driving motor vehicles, etc).

Evaluations:

This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate. This position is being filled under the Field Unit Local Hiring Authority. Under this authority, competitive rating, ranking, and veterans' preference procedures do not apply. The Servicing Human Resources Office will determine whether applicants meet the qualification and eligibility requirements described in this announcement. Applicants who meet these requirements may be referred to the selecting official on a certificate of eligibles for consideration.

What to Expect Next:

Once your Occupational Questionnaire has been received, you will receive an acknowledgement confirming your submission was successful. Applicants who meet the eligibility and qualification requirements will be referred to the selecting official for consideration. If your name is referred, you may be contacted directly by the hiring official for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your application at key stages in the process, including when candidates are referred for consideration and when the selection process has been completed.

Required Documents:

• Two Page Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, dates specified in month and year format, and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked.
• Proof of residence (e.g. mortgage or property deed, lease/rental agreement, utility bill, insurance policy).
• All college transcript(s), if qualifying based on education.
• Documentation for Interagency/Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP/CTAP) consideration if you are a displaced Federal employee within the local commuting area.
• Veteran Documentation, if applicable, such as: DD-214, SF15, letter from Veteran Affairs, etc.

Other Information:

This position will be filled under the Field Unit Local Hiring Authority. Eligibility is limited to applicants who reside within the defined local commuting area at the time of application. You must provide proof of residency within the defined vicinity.

Physical Demands:

The work requires some physical exertion and can involve extensive periods of standing and walking, in some cases over rough surfaces or inclines outdoors or in caves, and carrying backpacks, tools, rescue equipment, or other loads. Some employees may engage in firefighting, search and rescue, and other strenuous activities; these employees may be required to lift or carry equipment weighing more than 50 pounds over long distances.

Working Conditions:

The work can include moderate risks or discomforts that require safety precautions (e.g., exposure to extreme temperatures, climates, rough terrain, wild animals, pests, and/or insects). The incumbent may be required to use protective clothing or gear, such as masks, boots, gloves, and be exposed to high risk and potential dangerous situations which require a range of safety and other precautions.