For South Jersey residents looking ahead to summer, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is offering more than just seasonal work; it’s offering opportunity, stability and a chance to spend the season immersed in the region’s state parks.
The DEP is now accepting applications for more than 800 seasonal positions at state parks, forests and historic sites statewide, with many opportunities available close to home. In South Jersey, that includes Wharton State Forest, Island Beach State Park in Brigantine, Cape May Point State Park and Corson’s Inlet State Park. Officials expect increased visitation this year as New Jersey joins nationwide celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary.
Work where South Jersey comes alive
From ocean beaches and tidal inlets, to pine forests and historic sites, South Jersey’s state parks are among the region’s biggest summer draws and keeping them running smoothly requires a dedicated seasonal workforce.
Available positions include lifeguards, junior lifeguards, visitor service assistants, general maintenance staff, office assistants, naturalists and history educators. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
“A seasonal position with New Jersey State Parks is a great way to spend the summer,” DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette said in a statement. “And this year will be even more special as we highlight parks, forests and historic sites that played important roles in our nation’s early history.”
A reliable summer job with a view
As families and students plan for the months ahead, these roles offer steady hourly pay, flexible schedules and work environments that beat fluorescent lights and office cubicles.
Lifeguard positions are among the highest-paying seasonal roles and are expected to be in strong demand at South Jersey locations including Island Beach State Park, Atsion Recreation Area within Wharton State Forest, Bass River State Forest and Belleplain State Forest.
No prior experience is required. Applicants must pass swimming and running tests and the DEP provides paid training in CPR, first aid, AED use and other safety skills. Those who complete training receive certification from the U.S. Lifesaving Association. Pay starts at $19 per hour at lakefront swimming areas and $20 per hour at Island Beach State Park.
Junior lifeguard positions are also available starting at age 15 at Island Beach State Park, paying $17.50 per hour and offering teens early job experience in a structured, supervised setting.
Opportunities beyond the beach
Seasonal employment extends well beyond lifeguard stands. General maintenance personnel assist with landscaping, facility upkeep, trail maintenance and park improvement projects, helping ensure South Jersey’s parks remain welcoming throughout the busy summer season. These positions start at $16.50 per hour.
Visitor service assistants play a key role as the first point of contact for guests, providing information, collecting entrance fees and monitoring park grounds.
For those interested in education and conservation, naturalist and history educator positions are available at locations such as Wharton State Forest, Cape May Point State Park, Belleplain State Forest and Island Beach State Park. Duties include leading interpretive programs, assisting with research and helping visitors better understand the ecological and historical importance of the region. Office positions are also available to assist with campground registration, phone calls and customer service within park offices. Most non-lifeguard roles begin at $16.50 per hour.
A pathway to something more
Rebecca Fitzgerald, administrator for New Jersey State Parks, said seasonal work often becomes something lasting.
“I started as a seasonal visitor services assistant,” Fitzgerald said. “That experience sparked my interest in New Jersey’s public lands and led to a career I never expected.”
How to apply
Applications are being accepted now at nj.gov/dep/workinparks. Peak season typically runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Seasonal staff should expect to work weekends and holidays, though officials say accommodations can be made for students and teachers with limited availability.
For those looking to earn dependable summer income and spend time in the quiet forest trails or windswept beaches that define South Jersey, these seasonal park jobs offer a chance to do both.
