While it might be your dream to become the next Crocodile Dundee or Bear Grylls, unless you have some serious qualifications in the field of natural resources, land management, or conservation, then you might find yourself disappointed. Instead, the vast majority of national park jobs are seasonal, summer work within lodges or national park-run cabins, which provide the chance to absorb the tranquility while earning and getting useful experiences in a range of sectors.
The most prolific national park jobs are in the hospitality sector, where employees are sought to work either within catering or housekeeping and maintenance. Although this doesn’t pay an awful lot, many companies provide free or discounted accommodation and meals to their staff, plus other perks for visiting and making most of the surrounding national park. Most positions are seasonal, so expect to work either between May and October or November and April.
Those with experience in adventure sports, camping, or hiking can also look for jobs as tour guides at national parks abroad. Often requiring qualifications in the field, these types of roles are perfect for adventurous souls who enjoy opening up new experiences to other like-minded explorers.
For professionals with some experience in the education or environmental sector, many national parks advertise positions for field instructors or guides who deliver workshops about the wildlife and geology of the park, or present cultural content to local schools or other visitors. If you’ve got the gift of the gab, this is an opportunity to spread your passion for nature and the awareness of why national parks across the globe are critical for protecting our natural heritage.
The cherry on the top of all national park jobs abroad is the park ranger. This type of job can have various different responsibilities: helping to protect the habitats of endangered species, surveying and monitoring wildlife, overseeing the maintenance of the visitor services within the park, and protecting historical sites. However, bear in mind that these positions require experience in land management, animal handling, a relevant degree, and work experience in the required field for your application to even be considered. For park ranger jobs abroad, you’ll often find that agencies based in your country of choice are your best bet for helping you to track down a position.
Being proactive and communicating with the relevant people, after having done some extensive research on exactly where you’d like to be based, will give you the best possible chance of securing your dream national park job abroad.