By: Savannah Scarborough, Follow South Jersey Inter
SOUTH JERSEY – The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has advised and encouraged all state residents looking for seasonal employment to submit applications this month, as soon as possible, to New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites.
The State Park Service is looking for employees 16 years or older, for essential operations to keep the parks running, with various positions available in different fields. Individuals for these positions will be able to jumpstart an environmental career taking care of New Jersey’s cultural, historical, and natural resources.
“New Jersey’s state parks, forests and historic sites are a treasure, and the State Park Service is always looking for dedicated individuals to help us conserve and make available these spaces for all,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites.
Most seasonal jobs range from Memorial Day to Labor Day, are part-time or year-round, require staff to work weekends and holidays, and are outdoors. Some of these jobs include lifeguarding, trail stewards, and other positions.
In New Jersey, lifeguard careers offer a starting salary of $17.50 per hour, with Oceanfront guards at $18.50. Individuals must pass running and swimming tests to become eligible, but no prior experience is necessary. The DEP estimates the state park swimming areas will open in mid-June and that the Island Beach State park will open on Saturday, May 27.
Current trail stewards and similar positions are available at Cheesequake State Park, Island Beach State Park, Stokes State Forest, Wharton State Forest, and Worthington State Forest. Eligible applicants must be 18 years of age or older and require the ability to hike long distances daily for specific jobs, including brushing and blazing trails, installing signs and fences, and performing general trail maintenance.
“A seasonal job with the State Park Service has numerous benefits, from being outdoors in nature to developing important life and work skills,” Commissioner LaTourette said. “Our seasonal hires become ambassadors for showcasing to millions of visitors the beauty and endless recreational opportunities across New Jersey.”
To apply for New Jersey Park Services at New Jersey’s parks, forests, recreation areas, and historic sites, visit https://nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/jobs.html.
To learn more about New Jersey parks, forests, and historical sites accepting applications, visit https://nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/jobs.html.
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