Ready to begin your parks career?

We are now accepting applications for the 2024 season.

Please continue to Job Openings for currently available positions.

Are you ready to make a difference and begin your Parks career?

Apply Now

Employment Overview

Work in the beautiful Vermont outdoors with some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Happy customers continuously tell us that our staff are the best around. Our staff tell us that working for the parks is some of the most rewarding and meaningful work they’ve ever done. If you have an excellent work ethic, customer service and/or management experience, and great attitude, we’d love for you to apply.

We work towards ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inclusive place for our staff, volunteers, and visitors. Discrimination based on ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, and physical or mental condition is prohibited. All eligible applicants or job-holders have equal opportunity in all areas of state employment.

We are currently recruiting park managers, assistant managers, park interpreters, attendants, workcampers, deckhands for our Burton Island Ferry Boat and more, see listings below. Part-time and full-time positions are available statewide. All jobs are temporary positions and as such do not have a comprehensive benefits package such as paid vacation or health insurance. Apply through the online portal by clicking “Apply Now” button at the top of this page.

All finalists for these positions will be background checked.

Perks

All employees receive two punch passes to share with friends or family, free camping and access to our rental boats on a space available basis, free day use and a free fishing license. Staff will also receive a discount on parks merchandise and free or reduced admission to many Vermont tourist attractions. You will be issued an ID card valid during your time with us to enable you to take advantage of some of these free attractions. Our positions qualify for various pro-deals for those working in the outdoor recreation industry. Optional 457-B deferred compensation plan to help you save for retirement. The best perk of the job = working outside with awesome people.

Think Park Life Is For You?

Check out the #WorkOutsideTheBox playlist for park staff interviews from park attendants to park managers. Then, head to the link below to learn more about what you can expect working in parks, a glimpse into the 'office', and written staff testimonials.

Explore Park Life

Part-time, Year- Round Positions

Working in the Barre office

Parks Program Technician, PG 20 - Barre Regional Office only

$21.52/hour

This position starts mid January and ends in late December for up to 1280 hours in a calendar year. Work hours and days are flexible within this timeframe. We are looking for a well-organized person with experience in an office setting. Microsoft Teams, DocuSign, Excel spreadsheets, as well as various other computer applications are used daily. Knowledge of Vermont State Parks is a plus! This position is critical to the staffing, hiring, and training of up to 150 seasonal staff for the Northeast State Parks. Duties include scheduling interviews, sending out and processing hiring paperwork, and data entry. Other duties include working with other regional staff to manage the Special Use Permit and License program. Don’t worry… you can get outside as well! During the parks operating season you may be called upon to work in a park, or to deliver supplies and merchandise to the field personnel. Duties are typically performed in our office in Barre, but there is an option for limited telework.

2024 Seasonal Positions

Greeting guests

Park Attendant

$16.65/hour

Spend your summer in a gorgeous outdoor setting while providing high quality customer service, working with a team or independently on general maintenance and grounds keeping and/or park office duties such as day use fee collection and campground reservations. Experience desirable. Weekend work most likely will be required. Perks include free camping, fishing licenses and free admission to Vermont attractions as well as cool nature moments. This position can also be used as a college internship.

State Park Attendant - Full Position Description (pdf)


Park Managers and Attendants

Park Managers and Assistant Park Managers

$18.37/hour - $21.52/hour, $880 - $1,032/week

Want a big outdoor office? Then these jobs are for you! These mostly residential positions where park housing is provided without charge, serve as summer park managers or assistant park managers responsible for customer experience, cash handling and management, and supervision of staff and park operations at specific parks. Manager pay grades depend on the overall complexity, visitation level and size of the park to which a position is assigned. Previous experience in park operations and maintenance, or college education in park management is preferred, but technical maintenance skills are not required, as training will be provided. The following are requirements for most of these managerial positions: Basic First Aid & CPR certification, working in excess of 48 hours per week, weekend and evening work and in-park residency for which housing is provided.

State Park Manager - Full Position Description (pdf)

State Park Assistant Manager - Full Position Description (pdf)

Lifeguards

Seasonal Lifeguard - Button Bay State Park

$16.65/hour

Responsible for day-to-day lifeguard duties at the in-ground pool as well as routine grounds, facility and equipment maintenance. In addition to being part of the park emergency team, other work may include raking and removing litter from picnic areas and campsites; mowing and trimming lawns; giving visitor information and assistance; visitor registration; assisting with accident investigation; and assisting with rules and regulation compliance. Housing may be provided. CPR, First Aid and Lifeguard Certification required. If not currently certified, certification fees will be covered for selected applicants. These positions are limited to Button Bay State Park.

Seasonal Lifeguard - Full Position Description (pdf)

Ferry boat deckhands

Ferry Boat Deckhand – Kill Kare/Burton Island State Parks

$16.65/hour

Assists in the operation of Vermont State Park’s Island Runner ferry boat from Kill Kare State Park to Burton Island State Park. Position is largely focused on customer service and passenger safety, as well as general maintenance and cleaning of vessel as directed by Ferry Boat Captain. 40 hours per week, 3-4 days per week. 12-hour days and weekend work required. This position requires random chemical (drug) testing to comply with USCG regulations.

Ferry Boat Deckhand - Full Position Description (pdf)

Island Runner Ferry

Ferry Boat Captain – Kill Kare/Burton Island State Parks

$21.52/hour

Operates Vermont State Park’s Island Runner ferry boat from Kill Kare State Park to Burton Island State Park. In addition to vessel operation, this position supervises a team of deckhands, provides visitor services, and assists with general maintenance of vessel. 40 hours per week, 3-4 days per week. 12-hour days and weekend work is required. Applicants must hold a current USCG 50-Ton Master’s License, or greater. Random chemical (drug) testing will be administered to comply with USCG regulations.

Ferry Boat Captain - Full Position Description (pdf)

Park interpreter leading an activity

Park Interpreter

$16.65/hour

Serves as a summer interpreter at one or two State Parks. Responsible for developing, scheduling and delivering natural and cultural history programs, hikes, recreation activities, etc. Prior related education and experience necessary. Requires working split shift schedules. Basic First Aid & CPR certification required. Weekend and evening work required.Please apply online via link above and send resume and cover letter to rebecca.roy@vermont.gov.

Park Interpreter - Full Position Description (pdf)

Maintenance staff

Parks Maintenance Worker II

$16.65/hour

Incumbents may perform apprentice level tasks in one or more skilled trade areas depending on assignment. Typical examples include rough carpentry, prepare and paint exterior or interior surfaces, walls and ceilings, and maintaining small engines for the maintenance and repair of park facilities, building and grounds. The use of a variety of construction and mechanic tools, small equipment and vehicles is typical. Lifting heavy weights (up to 75lbs.) is typical. Incumbent will be supervised by the Maintenance Mechanic B or Maintenance Technicians. When applying on-line, apply to one or more of the following “Park Preferences” for these maintenance positions:

  • Rutland Regional Office (for parks in Southwestern VT)
  • Lake Carmi Maintenance Shop
  • Knight Point Maintenance Shop
  • Groton Maintenance Shop

Parks Maintenance Worker II - Full Description (pdf)

Parks Maintenance Mechanic B

$19.41/hour

Skilled Maintenance work at or above the journeyman level of difficulty and responsibility in construction, structural maintenance and repair of park facilities, buildings, grounds, small equipment and utilities. The duties include performing routine maintenance and repair work in an independent park setting on a project-by-project basis. To perform duties, the use of a variety of construction and mechanic tools, small equipment and vehicles it typical. Lifting heavy weights (up to 75 lbs.) is typical. When applying on-line, apply to one or more of the following “Park Preferences” for these maintenance positions:

  • Rutland Regional Office (for parks in Southwestern VT)
  • Lake Carmi Maintenance Shop
  • Knight Point Maintenance Shop
  • Groton Maintenance Shop

Parks Maintenance Mechanic B - Full Description (pdf)

Trail Crew Members

Trail Coordinator

$19.41/hour

This position coordinates trails program and projects in an assigned district for the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Plans, develops, and coordinates trail maintenance and development projects, and supervises and monitors in-house, contracted and volunteer trail crews. May develop and coordinate a volunteer trail maintainer program on state lands. May also support the preparation of grants, requests for proposals, and contracts for trail projects. Duties are performed under the general direction of the Forest Recreation Specialist, Parks Regional Manager or State Lands Stewardship Forester, but with need for significant independence interacting with the public and outside service providers. Wilderness First Aid/Responder and CPR certifications desired, as well as chainsaw certification (Game of Logging) although these trainings may be provided by FPR if needed. Must have driver's license. State or rental vehicle will be available. Positions are being hired in three district offices: Springfield, Rutland, and Essex Junction. Hours per year range from 960-1280.

For more information and to apply, please visit State Lands Management Job Opportunities

Seasonal Trail Crew Leader

$18.37/hour

The State Trail Crew Leader prepares for, and leads, a 4-6-person trail crew on recreation and trail projects on Vermont State Lands. The Crew Leader is responsible for the safety and supervision of the team and is accountable for the quality and completeness of work projects. Under the supervision of the seasonal Trail Coordinator(s) and/or district recreation staff, the Crew Leader will plan the logistics involved in the completion of each project, including but not limited to, organizing proper tools, procuring materials, and arranging crew accommodations while working on projects. Field projects will be performed on trails throughout Vermont’s State Lands. Season runs from early May to early November.

For more information and to apply, please visit State Lands Management Job Opportunities

Seasonal Trail Crew Member

$16.65-$17.46/hour

Be a part of a 4-person crew responsible for trail maintenance projects on Vermont’s state lands. You can work through the late summer or fall depending on your availability. The crew consists of three crew members and one crew leader. Pay range between $16.65-$17.46 depending on prior experience. The crew works on trails throughout Vermont and travels between work areas. Most of the work is in the northern half of the state. The crew will be based out of the Groton State Forest Maintenance Shop where tent platforms and basic amenities are provided for days off. Position requires previous experience on trail crews or similar work. Wilderness First Aid and Game of Logging Levels 1-3 certifications are encouraged but the successful candidate can also gain these certifications as part of the position training. This position has two date ranges based on your availability.

For more information and to apply, please visit the State Lands Management Job Opportunities

Parks Restoration Crew Leader

$21.52/hr

Incumbents will be responsible for supervising a Vermont Youth Conservation crew of up to 5 members made up of young adults starting their careers in the building trades. The crew leader should have experience leading and training young adults in an outdoor setting. The Parks Restoration Crew Leader manages day to day construction work including framing, roofing, flooring, siding and finish work. They must operate and be able to instruct their crew on a variety of power tools including drills, drivers, saws, and nailers. Leaders must maintain a clean and safe job site, ensure efficient, timely and high-quality production, and maintain regular communications with the Parks Maintenance Foreman and the Vermont Youth Conservation Crew Leaders. Projects may include building backcountry outhouses, roofing, painting and miscellaneous trail work. This position works out of the Groton Maintenance Shop in Marshfield, Vermont. Season runs from mid-April through the end of October.

Seyon Lodge

Seyon Lodge Assistant Innkeeper

$22.74/hour

Seyon Lodge in Groton Forest is Vermont State Parks most unique State park, hosting a 16 bed overnight facility and the State’s only public fly fishing area. The Assistant Seyon Lodge Innkeeper assists in administrating and managing the operation and maintenance of Seyon Lodge State Park consisting of the guest lodge, conference center, trails, gardens, grounds and fishing facilities. Duties include but are not limited to training and supervising staff, accounting and park reservations, maintaining the grounds and assisting in all areas of food preparation and service. Knowledge of Vermont State Parks rules, polices and procedure are a plus but not required. Position is in Northeast VT. Apply online to “Seyon Lodge” in the Park Preferences section in the online portal (Region 4).

Seyon Lodge Assistant Innkeeper - Full Position Description (pdf)

Seyon Lodge Cook

Seyon Lodge Cook

$19.41/hour

Skilled cooking and supervisory work involving daily planning, preparation and serving food to guests at Seyon Lodge State Park, one of Vermont’s unique state parks located in Groton State Forest. When Innkeepers are absent, supervises lodge attendants and acts as assistant to Innkeepers. Work is performed in a commercial kitchen and requires considerable guest contact. Weekend work is required. Position is in Northeast VT. Apply online to “Seyon Lodge” in the Park Preferences section in the online portal (Region 4).

Seyon Lodge Cook - Full Position Description (pdf)

Seyon Lodge Staff

Seyon Lodge Lead Guest Services Associate

$16.65/hour

Serves as guest services associate at Seyon Lodge professionally and courteously representing the park while performing the general to more complex guest services duties including day-to-day lodge housekeeping, restaurant service, maintenance and operation of the Seyon Lodge. Position reports to the Seyon Innkeepers or Seyon Lodge Cook in the absence of the Innkeepers. Weekend work is required. Position is in Northeast VT. Apply online to “Seyon Lodge” in the Park Preferences section in the online portal (Region 4).

Seyon Lodge Lead Guest Services Associate - Full Position Description (pdf)

Workcamper

Workcamper

$16.65/hour

Workcamping opportunities in Vermont State Parks are paid attendant positions with housing provided as a campsite. Duties are that of Park Attendants - customer service, working with a team or independently on general janitorial/maintenance and grounds keeping and/or park office duties such as day use fee collection and campground reservations; additionally Workcampers may provide some after-hours emergency contact for campers. Campsite amenities vary depending on location but most sites have full RV hookups. Employee must furnish their own fully enclosed camping unit (tents not acceptable). Weekend work most likely required. Perks include free camping in Vermont state park campgrounds, fishing licenses and free admission to many Vermont attractions. Select “Workcamper” as position type. Opportunities available state-wide at select parks.

How to #WorkOutsideTheBox

Are you ready to make a difference and begin your Parks career?

Begin the Application Process

We prefer applicants to use our online portal, but if you are unable to do so, you can fill out, print and mail this employment application pdf.

Questions?

We're happy to help! Please direct questions to:

Reuben Allen
(802) 779-6054
reuben.allen@vermont.gov

Internship Opportunities

Do you have an internship idea? If you have an internship idea that you'd like to pursue that would benefit both yourself and the parks system -- pitch it to us! We'd be happy to consider it. Email kaitlin.alford@vermont.gov.

Volunteer Opportunities

Looking for opportunities to volunteer? Check out our volunteer page for opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.

Employer of National Service

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