Summer is calling, and New Jersey State Parks are answering with a massive hiring spree! The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is gearing up for a busy year, and they're looking to fill over 800 seasonal positions across the state. With the United States celebrating its 250th anniversary this year, officials are anticipating a surge in visitors to these beautiful locations.
From the northern reaches of High Point State Park to the southern charm of Cape May Point State Park, opportunities abound. The available roles are diverse, offering something for everyone. You could be a lifeguard, ensuring safety on the water, or a naturalist, sharing the wonders of nature. Perhaps you'd prefer to be a history educator, bringing the past to life, or maybe you're more suited for general maintenance or visitor services. Bilingual applicants are especially encouraged to apply.
As DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette stated, these seasonal positions are a fantastic way to spend the summer, especially given the historical significance of many of these parks during the American Revolution. He emphasizes that these roles can also be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in environmental protection.
Rebecca Fitzgerald, the administrator for New Jersey State Parks, echoes this sentiment, having started her own career as a seasonal employee. She highlights how her experience collecting entrance fees at High Point State Park sparked her interest and ultimately led to a 23-year career in the field.
So, what exactly are the available positions?
- Lifeguards: No prior experience is required, but you'll need to pass running and swimming tests. The DEP provides paid training in CPR, first aid, and other essential safety skills. Salaries start at $19 per hour at lakefront swimming areas and $20 per hour at Island Beach State Park. Opportunities are available in various parks across the state.
- Junior Lifeguards: Starting at age 15, you can earn $17.50 per hour at Island Beach State Park, gaining valuable experience.
- General Maintenance Personnel: Supporting full-time staff with tasks like lawn care and cleaning, these positions start at $16.50 per hour and are available statewide.
- Visitor Service Assistants: Assisting park visitors with information and fee collection, these roles also start at $16.50 per hour and are available statewide.
- Naturalists and History Educators: Lead interpretive programs and assist with special projects. Salaries start at $16.50 per hour. Naturalist opportunities are available in several state forests and parks, while History Educator positions are available at various historic sites.
- Office Personnel: Assisting with camper registration and customer service, these positions also start at $16.50 per hour and are available statewide.
But here's where it gets controversial... The peak season generally runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and seasonal staff must work weekends and holidays. However, officials are willing to accommodate applicants like students and teachers whose availability might be limited.
Could this be a great opportunity for you? If you're interested, apply as soon as possible at nj.gov/dep/workinparks.
What do you think? Are these seasonal positions a good way to gain experience and enjoy the summer? Would you consider applying, and what role interests you most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
