Park Aide; Inland NW Area Parks

Description

Experience the natural beauty of Washington State Parks and get paid to do it!

Temporary Washington State Park Aide jobs are perfect for people who like to get outside and enjoy nature, do physical work, and contribute to a truly important mission – maintaining a fantastic parks system for everyone! Individuals who are interested in a longer‑term career with State Parks, many permanent staff including members of the executive team, started as Park Aides. Students looking for summer work and active retirees who want to stay moving also qualify.

Less‑than‑full‑time work is possible in many locations.

• Temporary positions are eligible for vacation and sick leave.
• Holiday pay may be available depending on work dates and duration.
• Great teammates who care about their work.
• Learning and refining a set of very practical and transferable job skills.
• Being in nature is good for physical and mental well‑being.
• Wildlife sightings from chipmunks to orcas to moose, and everything in between.

• Weekend work is expected and evening shifts may be required.
• Parks are busiest during spring and summer holidays; time off around a holiday is not guaranteed.
• Bathroom cleaning is a common task.
• Most positions are physically moderate – walking, raking, bending, kneeling, lifting lighter items (and heavier ones with assistance). If this is not suitable, check for positions that may involve less physical work.

Park housing and RV parking are not available for this area.

Positions are located in the Inland NW Area (Mount Spokane, Riverside, Lake Spokane, Columbia Plateau Trail North, Centennial Trail). Majority are available and may begin March, April, May, or June, generally 3–8 months in duration. The number of vacancies varies by park.

Typical schedule:

40 hours a week, but less‑than‑full‑time work may be offered either over the entire period or for specific periods. This position is not eligible to telework; physical presence is required.

Under the supervision of the Park Ranger, Park Aides perform various tasks that may include registering campers and collecting fees, cleaning facilities, mowing lawns, or explaining park rules. Primary duties include:

• Maintain park facilities through light routine maintenance and janitorial services.
• Perform grounds maintenance work such as cutting grass, weeding flower beds, pruning shrubs, raking leaves, and picking up litter.
• Maintain park lawns using a mower, weed eater, trimmer, and other tools.
• Provide park information to visitors and answer phones.
• Register campers, collect, sort, and count revenue; prepare bank transmittals and deposits.
• Perform daily garbage collection and litter control.
• Clean restrooms and stock cleaning supplies.
• Clean rental properties and perform general housekeeping duties, including washing windows, scrubbing floors, mopping, and sweeping.
• Drive light trucks or other state vehicles to transport supplies and equipment within the park; haul garbage.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum age 17 years.
• Valid (unrestricted) driver’s license. Out‑of‑state drivers must provide proof of a valid, current license at the interview.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Kayaking experience.
• Vessel operation experience.
• ATV experience.
• Experience working a chainsaw.
• Spanish language skills preferred.

• Learn and interpret park rules, area information, and local history to educate visitors.
• Manage multiple projects and maintain organization and communication.
• Operate a variety of hand tools, power tools, and small equipment.
• Perform general maintenance to park buildings and facilities.
• Perform janitorial services, including the use of chemicals.
• Perform physical labor for extended periods.
• Work in all weather conditions.
• Work Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
• Learn equipment servicing, diagnosing, and maintenance.

All non‑permanent Park Aides are required to wear a uniform. A complete and properly worn uniform helps establish the professional identity of a Washington State Parks employee and promotes respect as a Washington State Parks employee. All non‑permanent Park Aides receive two shirts, one baseball cap, and a clothing stipend of…