Washington State Parks is urgently recruiting seasonal and full-time employees to support maintenance and construction efforts across its statewide network of 123 parks. The agency currently employs over 700 workers, but the demands of maintaining nearly 800 historic structures and miles of trails require a larger, skilled workforce.

While hiring needs are widespread, particular challenges are emerging in Eastern Washington, where location, climate, and specialized skills make recruitment more difficult. “That is asking for a special kind of person who is interested in that. And there's plenty of people who are — but it's not always easy to fill those positions,” said Sarah Fonk, Communications Manager for Washington State Parks.

The agency is looking to hire both park aides, who handle daily upkeep and visitor assistance, and construction workers responsible for more extensive infrastructure projects. These roles are essential to the functioning of the park system, particularly as it welcomes millions of visitors annually for hiking, camping, educational programs, and environmental conservation.

Maintenance staff handle a wide range of tasks, including trail repairs, landscape work, building upkeep, and the preservation of historic structures. Construction crews take on larger projects such as facility upgrades, bridge repairs, and restroom improvements.

The seasonal nature of many roles creates a constant need for new recruits as staffing levels rise and fall throughout the year, particularly during peak visitor seasons. This adds another layer of complexity to the agency’s hiring strategy, which must remain flexible and responsive to changing park usage patterns.

Washington’s state parks span diverse environments—from coastal beaches to alpine forests and high desert—requiring workers with a wide array of skills suited to different terrains and climates. The agency’s stewardship of nearly 800 historic buildings further requires employees with knowledge of preservation techniques and materials, creating additional demand for qualified tradespeople.

Beyond logistics, the parks system operates on a budget that is roughly 65% funded by user fees and donations, with the remaining support coming from the state’s general fund. This funding model emphasizes the importance of public engagement and community support in maintaining services and facilities.

Officials note that while the work can be physically demanding and occasionally remote, it provides unique benefits: the chance to work outdoors in scenic locations, contribute to public service, and be part of preserving Washington’s natural and cultural heritage.

The agency stresses that adequate staffing is not only essential for safety and upkeep—it also impacts tourism and local economies, particularly in rural communities where parks are often major employers and attract thousands of visitors.

To meet its staffing needs, Washington State Parks continues to update its recruitment strategies, particularly for hard-to-fill roles in isolated areas where housing and amenities may be limited. Job seekers can find current opportunities ranging from entry-level park aide roles to specialized construction and maintenance positions on the agency’s website.

The hiring push reflects broader trends affecting public land agencies and construction sectors across the Pacific Northwest, where demand for skilled labor continues to rise amid aging infrastructure and increased visitation. For Washington State Parks, success in this effort will be critical to ensuring that park visitors continue to enjoy safe, well-maintained, and beautiful spaces for generations to come.

Originally reported by William Albert in Apple Valley News.