Animal Packer and Caretaker (Trails) (Seasonal)

US National Park Service; California; On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The US National Park Service seeks a qualified candidate for a position requiring solid knowledge of work standards and safety. Applicants must meet multiple screening criteria and demonstrate ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision.

The role emphasizes using measuring instruments, interpreting specifications, and maintaining tools and materials. Volunteer experience is valued and considered in evaluating qualifications.

Qualifications

• Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT)
• Technical Practices: theoretical precise, artistic
• Use of Measuring Instruments
• Ability to Interpret Instructions, specifications; other than blueprints
• Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
• Knowledge of Materials
• Dexterity and Safety

Job description

The typical defined season is not to exceed 6 months between Apr-Oct but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding.

Anticipated Entry on Duty: April-May 2027.

Open to the first 80applicants or until 10/26/2026 whichever comes first.

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-10/26/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:

1. Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT)
2. Technical Practices: theoretical precise, artistic
3. Use of Measuring Instruments
4. Ability to Interpret Instructions, specifications; other than blueprints
5. Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
6. Knowledge of Materials
7. Dexterity and Safety

If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. Your resume must support your response to the assessment questionnaire, and if it does not, your application will be marked as not eligible. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.

You must meet at least 2 points on the screen‑out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements to be considered qualified for this position.

Volunteer Experience:

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.