Interpretive Ranger Position – A Unique Role with NH State Parks 

This program has been branded the Discover the Power of Parks (DPP). The programs' objectives are to connect participants with nature and build their appreciation for New Hampshire's unmatched natural heritage. In this position, you will have the chance to live in one or more state parks, where you will connect with park patrons through fun and engaging programs and visitor service activities. 

March 30th– October 29th, 2026

Essential Function: 

• Program delivery (40%) – teach or lead programs for school classes, afterschool programs, community groups, and state park visitors 
• Program development (30%) – researching and designing programs for kids, adults, and multi-age groups
• Visitor services (15%) – answer patron’s questions, keep them informed of park policies, and ensure they enjoy their visit 
• Program reporting and evaluation (15%) 
• Public speaking 
• Able to hike five or more miles daily when delivering programs or visitor services 
• Ability to use a computer for word processing, emailing, and internet research 

Member Benefits: 

• Living Allowance $9,300 total - $600 paid biweekly 
• AmeriCorps Education Award, upon successful completion of the 1200-hour 31-week service term - $5,176.50 
• Housing is provided – estimated value is $4,000 
• All food is provided – estimated value is $1705 
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) includes CPR- $550 
• Certified Interpretive Guide training – $400 
• Leave No Trace - Trainer Certification (level 1) – $150 
• NH State Park Pass for day use during the 2026 season 

AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements: 

This position is part of a specialized SCA AmeriCorps program and if you are selected, you will be serving as an SCA AmeriCorps member. To be eligible for this position you must meet these basic AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements: 

• Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States; 
• Being at least 18 years or older; 
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent or actively working to complete; 
• Being willing to undergo a National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender, and FBI checks conducted after the position is offered.  

Member Qualifications and Essential Functions 

• Must be 21 years of age or older with a current driver's license for at least 3 years 
• A reliable personal vehicle for the duration of the service term 
• Need a personal computer for the duration of the program 
• Have not completed more than two or the equivalent of two 1700-hour AmeriCorps  service terms, earning the equivalent of two full-time education awards or served more than four service terms of any length 
• Must commit to completing the entire 7-month program 
• Passion and enthusiasm for the outdoors, ecology, environmental conservation, and/or local cultural and indigenous history 
• Strong time management skills 
• Ability to work independently as well as a member of a team 
• Experience with public speaking 
• Willingness to create hands on activities and programs for kids and adults 
• Ability to adapt to programmatic changes daily 
• Willingness to live in an intentional residential community and by yourself during the service term 

Responsibilities 

Program delivery (40%) :

You will spend most of your time delivering programs. The number of programs you deliver each week depends on your specific park and the Spring/Fall outreach schedule. Generally, the summer is the busiest season with programs and visitor services happening at NH State Parks. The Spring/Fall outreach schedule is slightly different – programs will take place at schools and other community organizations in communities adjacent to your current location. 

Developing, researching, and creating new programs, as well as preparation for programs (30%) :

This is the “behind the scenes” work that goes into creating a successful program. This includes typing program outlines and lesson plans, adapting existing curriculum for your needs, creating new program content, and researching topics to expand your knowledge on local ecosystems, natural and cultural history, and best practices in outdoor recreation. You will also need to ensure you have all the supplies and props necessary for these programs. This can involve using existing tools or materials (pond nets, animal skulls and pelts, outdoor survival tools, etc.) or creating new materials – preparing craft or project supplies. 

Visitor services (15%) : 

In addition to delivering your programs, you will also need to engage with guests during your non-program time. This may include “roving” or hiking trails to engage with guests and encourage LNT and hiker safety, visiting campsites to promote your programs, and answering any other questions visitors have. This may seem like a small task but giving hiking recommendations, sharing the best times and places to spot wildlife, or even giving local restaurant reviews can have a positive impact on a visitor’s experience. 

Reporting and other duties as assigned (15%) :

Interpretive Rangers complete weekly reporting that includes the number of program participants and park patrons engaged and a self-evaluation of the service week. Other assignments include writing blogs for NH State Parks, specific programmatic research, and taking pictures to showcase your experience. Rangers are also tasked with participating in staff meetings and related park duties. 

Marginal Functions: 

• Facilities maintenance 
• Land and trail management activities 
• Driving large 12 passenger vans 
• Participating in NHCC community meetings 
• Assisting with additional state park tasks (i.e. stocking firewood) 

Schedule: 

*Please note – this is a tentative schedule. Dates may change, but training opportunities will remain the same. 

• March 30th– October 29th, 2026 
• Service commitment- minimum of 1,200 hours 
• Ability to serve April – Mid-June during the training period, Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00 
• Mid-June – October is 5 days a week with a combination of one or both weekend days and some evenings required – approximately 9 hours per day 

Training and Leadership development: 

• Formal and informal educational program training including: 
• Training in outdoor science, natural, cultural, and recreational programming  
• Curriculum development  
• Orientation to the Next Generation Science Standards 
• Program evaluation 
• Classroom management  
• Age-appropriate program development – Ages and Stages  
• Outdoor program risk and safety management  
• Leadership development  
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) includes CPR- $550 
• Certified Interpretive Guide training – $400 
• Leave No Trace - Trainer Certification – $150 

Housing: 

Housing varies based on time of year and the individual NH State Park placement. During the training season (April – mid-June) members live in shared rustic cabins with wood stoves for heat. The main lodge has electricity, internet, furnaces for heat, the commercial kitchen, dining hall, living space, laundry, and bathrooms with showers.  There is quiet workspace in the office with internet access on an as needed basis. 

During your park placement from mid-June through Columbus Day housing includes a combination of tenting and rustic cabins. Individuals will never be tenting for an entire week at a time but may do so on a regular schedule throughout the summer. Housing is in proximity to internet, potable water, restrooms, showers and a fridge for food storage.  

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: 

This program is available to all, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations will be provided to applicants during the selection process and to members during service.