NJDEP Is Hiring

If you've got a kid at home that is at least 16, now's the time to get them on track to finding a summer job (or if you don't have kids, maybe you just want a summer gig to make some extra cash). The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is looking to fill hundreds of positions at state parks, forests, beaches and historic sites.

Here's all the info, straight from a DEP press release:

• Available positions include lifeguards, trail stewards, naturalists, historic educators, general maintenance, visitor service assistants, office workers and State Park Police visitor service assistants.
• Applicants for all positions are encouraged to check with the park office of their choice by Monday, March 2 about specific positions, scheduling and other job-related inquiries. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible.
• The type and number of positions vary by location, depending on the types of recreational opportunities each site offers. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older to apply. Salary rates start at $11 per hour for most positions.
• Seasonal staff are required to work weekends and holidays because park facilities are open seven days a week. Most jobs are outdoors.
• Lifeguard positions are anticipated at 13 swimming areas across the state. Lifeguard salaries begin at $12 per hour in most areas. Oceanfront guards at Island Beach State Park start at $13 per hour. While candidates must pass running and swim tests prior to employment, prior experience is not necessary. The State Park Service will train lifeguards in cardiopulmonary resuscitation/Automated External Defibrillators, first aid and other medical matters. Each lifeguard will also receive a U.S. Lifesaving Association certification.
• Trail Steward positions are available in D & R Canal State Park, Liberty State Park, Ringwood State Park, Wawayanda State Park and Worthington State Forest. Eligible applicants must be 18 years of age or older and able to hike strenuous distances daily. Applicants should be assertive and professional as they work with intense crowds and educate visitors on the Leave No Trace concept and park regulations. Trail stewards must be able to work 40 hours per week, on shifts from 10am to 6:30pm or noon to 8:30pm. The starting salary is $14 per hour.
• Office workers and visitor service assistants help register campers, answer phone calls, provide recordkeeping, handle sales transactions, and do other customer service duties as required. Naturalists and historic educators work with park naturalists and historians at interpretive centers to educate visitors. Typical activities include leading or assisting with programs, demonstrating or explaining a craft, and preparing materials. These positions may also be assigned specific projects by their supervisor. General maintenance helps to maintain grounds and buildings and remove litter. The starting salary for these positions is $11 per hour.
• State Park Police visitor service assistants patrol assigned areas, direct both pedestrians and vehicular traffic, and report unlawful acts to appropriate State Park Police personnel. Other duties may be required as under State Park Police supervision. Applicants must be 18 years of age and able to work weekends and holidays. The number of positions vary park to park based on the type of recreation at each location. Salaries start at $11 per hour for most positions but can be increased based on experience.

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