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Open: October 6, 2026 — Closes: October 12, 2026
Summary
You will serve as a Field Unit Local (FUL) Park Ranger (Interpretation) for Valles Caldera National Preserve. First time hires to the Federal government normally start at the step 1 rate.
Major Duties
Duties will be developmental in nature when filled below the full performance level. Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Create education and interpretation programs that share the important resource and cultural heritage stories of Valles Caldera to students of every educational level and visitors of all age ranges. Work with educators and organizations to develop standards-based education programs. Deliver education programs to a variety of school groups in classrooms, in the park, and via distance learning platforms. Research teaching techniques to incorporate into education programs and stay current on the latest education trends and techniques. Support Park operations through visitor service operations and providing ranger-guided programs. Physical Demands: The work requires some physical exertion and can involve extensive periods of standing and walking, in some cases over rough surfaces or inclines outdoors or in caves, and carrying backpacks, tools, rescue equipment, or other loads. Some employees may engage in firefighting, search and rescue, and other strenuous activities; these employees may be required to lift or carry equipment weighing more than 50 pounds over long distances. Employees who participate in all-risk operations will be required to meet fitness requirement on a continuing basis. Working Conditions: The work can include moderate risks or discomforts that require safety precautions (e.g., exposure to extreme temperatures, climates, rough terrain, wild animals, pests, and/or insects). The incumbent may be required to use protective clothing or gear, such as masks, boots, gloves, etc. Some employees may be engaged in all-risk operations and be exposed to high risk and potentially dangerous situations which require a range of safety and other precautions. Area Information: Located in the Jemez Mountains of north-central New Mexico, the 89,000-acre Valles Caldera National Preserve encompasses a 13-mile-wide dormant volcanic caldera. Its distinct topographic mosaic of expansive valley meadows, lush forested volcanic domes, meandering valley streams, and old-growth ponderosa pine groves are in striking contrast to the arid New Mexico landscapes at lower elevations. The park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing. Park headquarters is located in the village of Jemez Springs, and the park is located halfway between Jemez Springs and the town of Los Alamos. Work area elevation ranges from 6,200 feet to 11,257 feet. Summer temperatures can range from the 30s to the 80s (Fahrenheit). Winter temperatures can drop well below zero. Snowfall occurs generally from November to as late as May. The closest communities with schools and services are Rio Rancho, Jemez Springs, and Los Alamos. The nearest airports are in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Housing rentals range from $1,200-$3,000 for a two-bedroom/two-bathroom place. Housing prices range from $300,000 to $750,000 for a two-bedroom/two-bathroom home. For more information, see the parks website: www.nps.gov/VALL Requirements Continued... Probationary Period: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a one year probationary period during which your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest will be evaluated. This probationary period is an extension of the appointment process and therefore requires the agency to determine if continued employment would advance the public interest, meet the organization goals and mission of the agency, and/or otherwise promote the efficiency of the service. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, the agency will consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Under applicable law, the employment of an individual serving a probationary or trial period automatically terminates when that period ends unless the agency affirmatively certifies, in writing, that the individual's employment should continue and that their appointment should be finalized. In the absence of agency action to affirmatively certify continued employment beyond the probationary or trial period, such appointments are terminated. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
