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How to Get a Job at a National Park

If you want to travel long term and see as much of the world as possible, it’s likely you’re going to run out of funds eventually.  As travelers, we can extend our trips if we find a way to make money on the road. Even better, find a job that pays you to travel!

Finding jobs where you’d like travel is a great way to make money AND get to explore the area for an extended period of time!

While I have mostly been focusing on working festival jobs in Europe or working the spring break season in Mexico, there are a ton of incredible opportunities to travel and make money in the United States.

Exploring the beautiful state of Arizona.
The United States is home to some absolutely breathtaking National Parks.

Whether you’d like to soak in a hot spring in Olympic National Park, hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon or “glamp” in Glacier National Park, there are countless jobs available for people to work short term contracts in these parks!

 Cool Works is a great resource for National Park employment options.

You just search whichever National Park you’d like to work at and it provides the current job openings. You can also find career opportunities if you’re looking for something more long term. Otherwise it’s a great resource for seasonal positions in epic destinations.

Jobs vary from park to park but there is a wide range of work available:
  • Food and Beverage Services
  • Recreation
  • Facilities Services
  • Hospitality / Guest Services
  • Retail
  • Accounting
  • Human Resources

If you like hiking or being outdoors, getting a job at a National Park could be the perfect fit for you!

This website is great and frequently updated as jobs become available so keep checking back!

Their motto reads: 

THIS IS YOUR LIFE. GO LIVE IT. Imagine if you were given a chance to embark on experiences that enhanced your life and the lives of others, changed the way you interact with the world around you, and connected you with the amazing places where you want to live. You don’t have to imagine anymore. Welcome to Cool Works. We left the gate open – come on in and chase your dreams.”

If you’re specifically interested in spending time in the Grand Canyon, I recommend looking into working at a lodge!

A short seasonal stay would be a great way to hike, explore, take photographs and appreciate everything the Grand Canyon has to offer!

Forever Resorts is another great place to look for a job in Arizona!

Forever Resorts offers fun and interesting job positions working outdoors at places like the Antelope Point Marina Boat Rentals.

Their website offers a lot of information and videos detailing the different types of work! No matter your skill set or level of experience, there is a wide range of positions available.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an absolute must see! I took a road trip through Arizona and Utah and didn’t allow nearly enough time to hike and explore this incredible park.

However if you applied for a job with Zion Lodge, you could explore and adventure on the daily!

There are hundreds of miles of trails to hike, outstanding terrain for mountain biking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, photography, nature walks, Park Service programs, wildlife viewing, athletic events, group trips and more. Self motivated employees will find an abundance of activities to occupy their free time. ” – Zion Lodge Careers

How To Get A Job At A National Park
Hiking alongside bighorn sheep in Zion National Park!

Whether you’d to explore Montana, Colorado, Utah, Alaska, South Dakota or any of the other states, getting hired at a National Park has never been easier.

Best of luck in your job hunt!

Job At A National Park

Want more information on jobs around the world?

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Emily Rose

Hi, I'm Emily Rose! In 2018, I sold all my stuff and moved into my suitcase to travel full time and work around the world! Follow along for the best travel jobs, photos to fuel your wanderlust and epic adventures!