The appointments are offered for time spans ranging from 2 to 6 months. They are focused at either heavy or light visitation times, depending on the type of job.
Most positions offer, at a minimum, housing or camper hook-up sites and a nominal stipend.
Some positions are available as seasonal or temporary positions, offering a salary, sick leave, and vacation time. Non-competitive appointments for university professors may be available. Most positions are available to U.S. citizens only, however a program for foreign geologists and students is being developed. Most positions require a degree in geology or earth sciences and some experience. Others may be done by graduate or undergraduate students.