Physical Science Technician; Seasonal

Summary

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is recruiting for summer seasonal positions intended to assist permanent staff with Physical Science Technician field work. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period is November‑April but can vary due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty date:
November 2026. Open to the first 75 applicants. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 EST on 07/20/2026 to be considered.

• Taking samples and/or manually measuring environmental parameters at abandoned mine sites such as water flow, water chemistry, and soil moisture.
• Installing, calibrating, managing, and retrieving data from remote environmental monitoring equipment including air quality sensors, water quality sondes, acoustic monitoring devices, remote cameras, and other electronic equipment.
• Navigating to remote backcountry sites and using GPS and topographic maps to map landscape features and record associated data.
• Preparing draft figures and reports describing and summarizing geology, soils, water quality, and hydrology data.
• Writing detailed draft reports on the methods and operating procedures for the physical science portion of an environmental monitoring program.

To qualify based on education, submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution with your name, school name, credit hours, course level, major(s), and grade‑point average or class ranking. Transcripts do not need to be official initially, but if you are selected you must provide official transcripts before starting work. For foreign education, provide an evaluation from a private organization that confirms equivalence to a U.S. accredited program or full credit for U.S. courses.

U.S. Citizenship required. Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication. Males must meet Selective Service Registration Act requirements. Selectees will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program. Occupancy of government quarters may be required. Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed. You may be required to wear a uniform and comply with NPS uniform standards;

a uniform allowance will be provided. You may be required to work on‑call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and/or shift work. You may be required to operate a government or private motor vehicle as part of your official duties. Prior to first official motor vehicle operation—and each year thereafter—you must submit a valid State‑issued driver’s license and an affidavit certifying possession of a current, unrevoked license.

You may be required to submit certified driving records from all states. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The work is partially sedentary with prolonged standing, walking, and bending often required. Heavy items up to 50 pounds must be lifted and carried routinely. WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work is performed in an office, laboratory, and in the field. Field work includes exposure to extreme weather and terrain conditions, poisonous plants, biting insects, and wild animals. Laboratory work may involve exposure to hazardous chemicals.