The Oregon Caves Natural History Association (NHA) will hire five cave guides for the 2026 season. Applications will be accepted through January 9, 2026. The guides will be paid by the NHA, they are directly supervised by the National Park Service.
What You’ll Do
Lead Discovery Cave Tours
Cave guiding is both rewarding and physically demanding. Guides typically lead up to three 90-minute Discovery Tours per day, with 12–15 visitors per tour during peak season. This fast-paced environment offers exceptional opportunities to build interpretive and public-speaking skills.
Additional Programs & Outreach
Guides may also assist with:
-
Kids & Family Tours, Candlelight Tours, and select Off-Trail (“Wild Cave”) Tours
-
Curriculum-based school programs (about one-third of summer visitors are children)
-
Visitor center staffing, community outreach, and white-nose syndrome education
-
Programs related to the park’s designation as an International Dark Sky Park
During slower shoulder seasons, guides may work on special projects tailored to individual interests, including educational content or web development.
Physical Requirements
Cave tours are moderately strenuous and require:
-
Walking and stooping through narrow, twisting passages
-
Navigating an 88-foot passage with ceilings as low as 45 inches
-
Ascending and descending 520+ steep, uneven steps, often without handrails
This position is not recommended for individuals with certain medical or mobility limitations, but it is an excellent way to stay active and build fitness.
Training & Knowledge
-
Nine days of paid training provided before guiding begins
-
Emphasis on safety, interpretive skills, and park resources
-
Applicants should have a basic understanding of earth sciences, especially geology
Guides interpret the complex geology of the cave and Klamath-Siskiyou region, biology, paleontology, and endemic species, ideal for those with a strong interest in science and learning.
Location
Oregon Caves is located in a remote, mountainous area of southwestern Oregon at 4,000 feet elevation, surrounded by abundant outdoor recreation. The site is located 20 miles south of Cave Junction, a small town with two grocery stores, three gas stations some restaurants. Thirty miles north of Cave Junction is the community of Grants Pass, a mid-sized town with a Walmart, several large grocery stores, movie theater and a hospital.
Dormitory-style housing is available on site, with shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, and lounge. Rent is approximately $210 per month.
The Season
The cave guide season is March 9 – November 1, 2026. These dates are required; we cannot be flexible.
Application Deadline: January 8, 2026
To apply, send your resume to: jamie_cleaver@nps.gov
Questions?
e-mail us
