NEW JERSEY — The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is accepting applications for more than 800 seasonal positions at state parks, forests and historic sites, anticipating increased visitation during celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary this year, officials announced.
Positions are available statewide, from High Point State Park in the northwest to Cape May Point State Park in the southeast. Openings include lifeguards, junior lifeguards, general maintenance personnel, visitor service assistants, office assistants, naturalists and history educators. Officials said bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
Most seasonal positions start at $16.50 an hour, slightly higher than last year’s rates. Lifeguard pay varies by location, starting at $19 an hour at lakefront swimming areas and $20 an hour for oceanfront guards at Island Beach State Park in Ocean County. Positions at Liberty State Park in Jersey City and along the greenway in Essex and Hudson counties start at $20 per hour.
“A seasonal position with New Jersey State Parks is a great way to spend the summer, and this year will be even more special as we highlight the parks, forests and historic sites that were pivotal locations in the American Revolution,” said DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “We encourage people of all backgrounds and experience levels to apply for these positions, which can also be a springboard to a rewarding career in environmental protection.”
Seasonal employees are generally required to work weekends and holidays, as park facilities operate seven days a week. Officials said accommodations can be made for applicants such as students and teachers whose availability may be limited during certain periods.
“As New Jersey State Parks celebrates the United States’ 250th anniversary, 2026 is an exciting year to work as a seasonal employee, with special events, restored historic buildings, new facilities, and visitors from across the country and around the world,” said John Cecil, assistant commissioner for state parks, forests and historic sites. “With opportunities across a diversity of positions, seasonal employees can build valuable skills, serve the public and spend time working in places that they love.”
Rebecca Fitzgerald, administrator for New Jersey State Parks, said seasonal employment can lead to long-term careers.
“New Jersey State Parks’ peak-season seasonal jobs program has paved the way for many full-time employees, including myself,” Fitzgerald said. “I began my career as a seasonal visitor services assistant collecting entrance fees at High Point State Park, an experience that changed the course of my life. It sparked my interest in New Jersey’s public lands, inspired me to earn a degree in park management, and led to a 23-year career as a field superintendent.”
Lifeguard positions are expected at swimming areas in several parks and forests statewide. Prior experience is not required, but applicants must pass running and swimming tests. The state provides paid training and certification in lifesaving and first aid skills. Junior lifeguard positions, available only at Island Beach State Park, are open to applicants starting at age 15.
Additional seasonal roles include general maintenance staff, visitor service assistants, naturalists, history educators and office personnel. Salaries for most of these positions begin at $16.50 per hour.
The United States’ 250th anniversary will be marked this year with special events across New Jersey’s parks and historic sites, including reenactments, interpretive programs and restoration projects. The DEP is also promoting the New Jersey State Parks 250 Challenge, a yearlong initiative encouraging residents and visitors to explore state parks, forests and historic sites.
Information about available positions and applications is available at nj.gov/dep/workinparks.
