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New Jersey's State Parks Open Doors to 800+ Seasonal Jobs for 2024
With a variety of roles from lifeguards to historians, New Jersey's natural reserves offer enriching summer employment opportunities.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is rolling out an ambitious plan to staff its state parks, forests, and historic sites by opening applications for over 800 seasonal part-time positions. Shawn M. LaTourette, the Commissioner, highlighted this initiative as an excellent opportunity for individuals to engage with the state's natural and historical assets while benefiting from a recently increased salary structure.
Spanning from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and in some locations extending from April to October, these positions cater to a wide array of interests and skills. Roles range from lifeguards and naturalists to history educators and general maintenance workers, with the state expressing a particular interest in applicants with varying availability, such as students and teachers looking for summer or weekend work.
This initiative not only offers a chance to work in some of New Jersey's most scenic environments but also serves as a potential stepping stone toward a career in environmental conservation and protection. John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, emphasized the transformative nature of these roles, where employees not only contribute to the preservation of New Jersey's natural heritage but also gain a deep appreciation and understanding of the outdoors.
Among the highlighted positions are lifeguard roles, with starting salaries of $18.50 per hour, and $19.50 per hour for those stationed at oceanfront areas like Island Beach State Park. The DEP ensures comprehensive training for these roles, including CPR, AED use, first aid, and U.S. Lifesaving Association certification. Notably, junior lifeguard positions are available for youths at least 15 years old, offering an early start to a lifeguarding career at $17 per hour.
Maintenance personnel, crucial for the upkeep of park facilities, start at $16 per hour, as do naturalists and history educators who play pivotal roles in visitor engagement and education. Additionally, visitor service and office staff, who handle a range of customer service tasks, are also welcome to apply for positions starting at the same pay rate.
With the DEP managing over 453,000 acres of recreational and historical land across New Jersey, this recruitment drive is part of a broader effort to ensure the state's parks and forests remain accessible and enjoyable for all visitors. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early, with a specific call to reach out to preferred state park offices by early March for detailed information on available roles and scheduling.
For more details on how to apply and contribute to the stewardship of New Jersey's natural and historical treasures, prospective applicants can visit www.nj.gov/dep/workinparks. This initiative not only promises a rewarding work experience but also the chance to make a lasting impact on the preservation and enjoyment of New Jersey's environmental heritage.
