Park Aide; Olympic Peninsula 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 our executive team, started their careers as Park Aides.
• Students who are looking for summer work.
• Active retirees looking for work that keeps them moving and doing good in the world. Less than full‑time work is a possibility in many locations.

• Temporary positions are eligible for vacation and sick leave.
• Holiday pay might be available depending on when and how long you work.
• 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 your physical and mental well‑being.
• Wildlife sightings from chipmunks to orcas and moose.

• Weekend work is expected, and you might be asked to work evening shifts.
• Our Parks are busiest on spring and summer holidays, so we need more workers on those days. Time off around a holiday is not guaranteed.
• Bathroom cleaning is a task that most Park Aides experience regularly.
• Most positions are physically demanding. Walking, raking, bending, kneeling, lifting lighter items (and heavier ones with assistance). If this is not appropriate, review the announcement carefully to determine if a less physical position is available.

Low‑cost housing is available for temporary Park Aides in the summer season at Bunk style houses for Potlatch, Dosewallips, and Sequim State Parks. A first‑come, first‑serve basis and no RV parking.

Under the supervision of the Park Ranger, Park Aides perform a variety of tasks at a State Park, beach, or historic area. A typical work day may include registering campers, collecting camp fees, cleaning facilities, mowing lawns, or explaining park rules. Duties vary by location.

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

Required qualifications

• Minimum 17 years old.
• Possess a valid unrestricted driver’s license. Out‑of‑state drivers must show proof at the interview.

Desired qualification

• Bilingual skills;
  Spanish language preferred.

Job specific competencies

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

Uniform information

All non‑permanent Park Aides wear a uniform: 2 shirts, 1 baseball cap, and a clothing stipend ($75/year, up to $150 for longer positions).

Complete the online job application and profile at State Parks Jobs.

Veteran preference: attach a DD214 or other proof of service. Black out PII. For more information, see veteran preference instructions.

Background check will be conducted before hire. The position is included in the non‑supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees. For more information: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Diversity Policy Statement The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is an equal opportunity employer. The agency encourages applicants underrepresented in natural resources and outdoor recreation fields, including but not limited to women, Black, Indigenous and people of color, individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, persons over 40, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Individuals needing accommodation in the application process or job announcement may contact the human resources office at 360‑902‑8565. Deaf or hard of hearing applicants may use the Washington Relay Service at 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6388.

For more information, contact recruitment ruitment.gov or 360‑902‑8569.

All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply.