NJ looking to fill 800 park, forest and historic site positions
Applications for 2024 peak-season part-time jobs in New Jersey’s state parks, forests and historic sites are now being accepted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
In a press release from the department, Commissioner Shawn LaTourette announced Thursday that the department is seeking applicants to fill at least 800 jobs ahead of the peak spring and summer seasons.
“A seasonal position in a state park or forest is not your average summer job,” LaTourette said. “The diversity of positions offered gives applicants the opportunity to connect with nature, foster a sense of stewardship and make a positive impact on some of New Jersey’s natural treasures while also gaining invaluable knowledge and experiences that may build a foundation for a career in environmental protection and conservation.”
Available positions include lifeguards, naturalists, history educators, general maintenance workers, visitor service assistants and office staff.
Positions range across the state’s 40 state parks, 11 state forests and five recreation areas and over 50 historic sites and districts.
Starting salaries range from $16 per hour to $19.50 per hour depending on the position and location.
The available positions are expected to run during peak season between Memorial Day on May 27 and Labor Day on Sept. 2. Specific start and end dates may differ between location and position.
Lifeguards
Lifeguards will be needed at swimming areas around the state from beaches to lakefronts. Lifeguarding opportunities in North Jersey may include:
• High Point State Park.
• Hopatcong State Park.
• Swartswood State Park.
• Wawayanda State Park.
The starting rate for lifeguards is $18.50 per hour.
You do not need prior experience, but you must be able to pass running and swimming tests and learn first aid and safety skills.
Junior lifeguard, lifeguard trainer and water safety supervisor positions may also be available.
Maintenance personnel
Maintenance personnel positions start at $16 per hour and are necessary at every site throughout the state. Job functions will include:
• Mowing lawns.
• Cleaning facilities.
• Removing trash.
• Park improvement projects.
• Other general maintenance functions.
Those with unique skills such as carpentry are encouraged to apply.
Naturalists and history educators
Naturalists and history educators will work at interpretive centers and historic sites to educate visitors by leading or assisting with interpretive programs, teaching camp groups, demonstrating a craft or other activities.
Naturalist opportunities in North Jersey will be at sites including:
• Liberty State Park.
• High Point State Park.
• Stokes State Forest.
History educator opportunities in
North Jersey will be at:
• Ringwood State Park.
• Waterloo Village Historic Sites. The starting pay for these positions is $16 per hour.
Visitor services, office assistance
Job opportunities in visitor services and office assistance could be available at all state parks, forests and historic sites.
Job functions will include:
• Registering campers.
• Collecting entrance fees.
• Answering phone calls.
• Record keeping.
• Conducting customer service duties.
• Acting as trail stewards, including brushing and blazing trails, installing signs and fences, and performing general maintenance (only at some areas).
Pay for these positions start at $16 per hour.
For additional details about each position and vacancies and to submit an application, those interested may visit the DEP website at nj.gov/dep/workinparks.