Careers in State Parks

Founded in 1923 as the State Parks Board, and united with the Game and Fish Commission in 1963 to form Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the State Parks Division includes 89 State Parks, Historic Sites and Natural Areas.

Texas State Parks, State Natural Areas and Historic Sites include over 600,000 acres of land. Over 9 million visitors enjoy our state parks each year. Maintaining and restoring state parks takes a tremendous team effort. Come, join our team!

Why Work for State Parks?

We like what we do, and our job satisfaction is high. We make a difference in our own lives and help ensure the protection of natural and cultural resources for the enjoyment of generations to come. Wherever you work in State Parks, you can choose a rewarding career with lifelong learning and a lasting legacy.

Lifelong Learning - Texas State Parks employees learn daily. Online and in-house training offer the chance for upward mobility and success to all.

Benefits - Texas State employees enjoy a wide range of short and long-term benefits.

Outdoor recreation - TPWD state parks offer the chance to hike, fish, camp, hunt, watch birds and other wildlife, bicycle, kayak, swim or pursue other outdoor recreation opportunities.

If You Enjoy -

• Helping people connect with the outdoors
• Creating moments that lead to good memories
• Protecting our natural and cultural resources
• Providing safety, security, and law enforcement
• Keeping grounds and facilities in shape
• Using your talents in business and operations management

Then we have a job for you!

Interacting with visitors

From the Operations Ranger repairing a leaky faucet to the Interpretive Ranger leading a nature walk, visitor relations is the job of every employee. People from all over the world come to share the wonders of the World Birding Center, Palo Duro Canyon, Texas beaches, swimming in Hill Country waters, and our historic sites.

Some of the job titles with visitor interaction include Park Police Officer, Interpreter, Clerk and Store Manager.

Texas Outdoor Family workshops and positions are another way to increase visitor enjoyment. To learn more, visit www.texasstateparks.org/tof.

Natural Resources

Do you want to restore and protect vital habitats for Texas native animals, fish and plants as a conservation biologist? If so, look for the Natural Resource Specialist job title. These positions are among those that preserve species diversity. State Parks offers rewarding careers in natural resource management.

Cultural Resources

Interested in historic preservation, archeology or living history? TPWD presents living history and manages and preserves historic sites and buildings - as well as archeological specimens, cultural resources and historic artifacts.

Park Maintenance

If you like to work with your hands, consider restoring and maintaining more than 5,000 campsites, over 1,000 miles of trails and our parks' utility plants, all in State Parks. Maintenance Specialist is the job title to look for.

Law Enforcement

Our Park Police Officers provide a safe environment for all visitors and help protect our valuable natural and cultural resources. U.S. citizenship/permanent residency is required to be commissioned. Park Police Officer (PPO) is the job title to look for.

And much more!

Whether you are a computer whiz or outdoor enthusiast, you can find a niche in Texas State Parks. Your office could be in a restored CCC structure, a stand of pineywoods, or near the beach.

Career Opportunities In State Parks

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