Park Aide; Tahoma Gateway Area Parks

Position Overview

Temporary Park Aide positions begin March 1, 2024, in the Tahoma Gateway Area—including Dash Point, Flaming Geyser, Kanaskat‑Palmer, Nolte, and Saltwater State Parks. Positions range from 3 to 5 months, depending on the park. The average schedule is 40 hours per week, though many locations offer part‑time work.

• People who enjoy outdoor work, physical activity, and contributing to Washington’s park system.
• Students looking for summer employment.
• Active retirees seeking part‑time work that keeps them moving.
• Individuals interested in a long‑term career with State Parks; many permanent staff began as Park Aides.

• Temporary positions receive vacation and sick leave.
• Holiday pay may be available depending on schedule.
• Opportunity to learn practical, transferable skills.
• Time in nature supports physical and mental well‑being.
• Wildlife sightings—from chipmunks and quail to orcas and moose.

• Weekend work is expected, and evening shifts may be required.
• Spring and summer holidays see the highest visitor traffic; time off around holidays is not guaranteed.
• Bathroom cleaning is a common task.
• Work is moderately physical: walking, raking, kneeling, lifting lighter items, and occasionally heavier items with assistance.

Resources are located in King County; a 5 % premium pay is added to the listed salary.

• Dash Point State Park – a 398‑acre saltwater park on Puget Sound with 3,301 ft of shoreline.
• Flaming Geyser State Park – a 480‑acre day use park on the Green River, featuring geysers and methane seeps.
• Kanaskat‑Palmer State Park – a 320‑acre community park with river shorelines and a gorge for advanced kayaking.
• Nolte State Park – a 117‑acre day use park on Deep Lake, offering water activities and walking trails.
• Saltwater State Park – a 1,445‑ft saltwater park between Tacoma and Seattle with forested trails and beach access.

• Maintain park facilities through routine maintenance and janitorial services.
• Perform grounds maintenance: mowing, weeding, pruning, raking, and litter removal.
• Assist visitors by providing information and answering phone inquiries.
• Register campers and manage camp fees.
• Collect and control daily garbage, cleaning restrooms and stocking cleaning supplies.
• Maintain rental properties and perform housekeeping duties.
• Transport supplies and equipment within the park area using light trucks.

• Minimum age 17.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license. Out‑of‑state licenses must be current at the interview.

• Bilingual skills (Spanish preferred).

• Learn and grow; adapt to new skills.
• Meet the needs of others.
• Understand and educate about park rules and local history.
• Manage multiple projects with organization and communication.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and small equipment.
• Perform general building maintenance and janitorial services.
• Perform extended physical labor in all weather.
• Work Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
• Maintain equipment and perform diagnostics when possible.

All non‑permanent aides wear a uniform, including two shirts, one baseball cap, and a $75 per‑year clothing stipend (up to $150 for longer assignments).

Complete the online State Parks Jobs application. For veteran preference, attach a copy of DD‑214, NGB‑22, or USDVA verification and black out any personal data.

A background check, including criminal history, is conducted before hiring. The position falls under the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) bargaining unit.

Washington State Parks employs equally; we welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds—including women, people of color, disabled individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Recruitment questions: HR.Recruitment.gov or (360) 902‑8569.

All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply. Job Alerts are available to receive updates on new positions.