Tips for Applying to Seasonal Jobs at Acadia

Interested in applyiing for a seasonal job at Acadia National Park? Check out the tips below crafted by our own seasonal rangers who have been in your shoes! You can visit our Work With Us page and the National Park Service Work For Us page for even more information.

 

Step 1: Get to Know USAJobs

• Visit USAJobs.gov to find all job postings for Acadia National Park or other National Parks. Create an account to start applying to jobs.

Step 2: Begin Your Search

• Narrow your search by using key words such as “National Park Service” or “Department of the Interior.”
• You can save your search by selecting the “Save Your Search” option found directly above the search results.
• Saving your search can provide you with email updates of relevant open positions from USAJobs.

Step 3: Find the Job That’s Right for You

• Most positions for the following summer are released between the late fall or early winter before.
• Read through each job announcement and its description. Check the requirements needed for applying.
• Anyone can apply for positions that are “open to the public.”
• Identify if any documents are required (transcripts, cover letter, certifications) and have those ready to upload to the site.

Anticipated Job Announcements for National Park Service positions:

• Resource Protection, Fees – September/October/November

• Park Ranger (Interpretation), Park Guide – October/November/December

• Park Ranger (Language), Visitor Use Assistant – December
  *Please note - these can change so always check USAJobs as a rule.

Step 4: Build Your Resume

• Read job announcements and use key words and phrases from description and questionnaires in your resume. Federal government resumes are very detailed and many pages long. It is not uncommon for federal resumes to exceed ten pages.

Pro Tip

Use the resume builder on USAJobs for help getting started.

Step 5: Apply

• Take the leap and submit your application. Complete the questionnaire provided in the application.
• Answer honestly but be confident in your abilities and experience.
• Some positions will send an email for you to complete a secondary assessment.

Step 6: Wait It Out

• Your resume and application will be processed through a few rounds of screening, typically taking place over the course of 2-3 months.
• After your resume passes computer/digital screening, you will receive an email if you are referred to the hiring manager.
• The hiring managers will send out emails asking if qualified applicants are still interested and available for the upcoming season. Make sure that you respond quickly.
• Finally, you may receive an email to schedule an interview.