#1 Resource For Jobs In Yellowstone National Park

Picture yourself standing before an explosive tapestry of vibrance and endless outdoor adventures in one of America’s greatest playgrounds, Yellowstone National Park, where untouched marvels and untamed wonders converge to create a symphony of nature’s grandeur that will resonate deep within your soul.
Beyond the mere existence of an adventure job in Yellowstone National Park lies an extraordinary opportunity to witness firsthand the mesmerizing spectacle of erupting geysers. Shimmering hot springs within a vibrant landscape where the pulse of life reverberates through the ecosystem as wildlife roams free to the rhythm of the land.
Have you ever considered becoming a National Park Ranger protecting the priceless treasures of our wilderness? Would you rather be an unsung hero who transforms each lodging room into a haven of serenity with a splash of comfort and tranquility? Do you long to create a cultivating sense of community as a campground host while guiding weary travelers to find solace in the embrace of the great outdoors?
If so, let me be your guide, leading you through the orchestration of applying for an adventure job in Yellowstone National Park. Together, we will unlock the gateway to an immersive professional journey, where your passion for the natural world will intertwine with the untethered beauty of America’s first National Park. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure where work and wonder collide before the magnificence of Yellowstone National Park.
Pursuing Yellowstone Employment
Working in a national park provides a wonderful outlet for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and outdoor recreationalists who yearn for a life away from the confines of cubicles and mundane suburban careers.
While becoming a ranger or joining the park service are common options to explore, alternative paths are available for those aspiring to live and work in a national park that does not involve working directly with the park service.
One alternative is to explore job opportunities with private companies operating within national parks.
These companies, known as park concessionaires, have contracts with the national park to provide various services to visitors.
They offer a wide range of employment opportunities, including hospitality, food services, lodging, retail, recreational activities, tours, maintenance, and more.

Working for a National Park concessionaire allows individuals to immerse themselves in the park environment, interact with visitors, and contribute to the overall park experience.
Some of the most popular Yellowstone National Park concessionaires are:
Working for one of these companies will allow you to live and work in Yellowstone National Park by living in employee housing and working at one of their venues within Yellowstone
Another option to seek employment in Yellowstone NP is with non-profit organizations or educational institutions that operate within Yellowstone. These organizations often focus on research, conservation, environmental education, and promoting sustainable practices.
Working for such organizations can provide a fulfilling and meaningful experience, as it involves contributing to the preservation and understanding of the park’s natural resources.
Here is a list of the more popular non-profit or educational institutes operating in Yellowstone National Park that you could work for.
- Yellowstone Institute
- Grand Teton Association
- Teton Science School
- Grand Teton National Park Foundation
Understanding The Yellowstone Application Process

Whether you choose to explore working at a concessionaire or for a non-profit, employment in the park is a highly competitive process.
Becoming familiar with the application process specific to Yellowstone National Park is crucial for increasing your chances of being hired. The application requirements can vary depending on the position you are applying for and the company you are applying to.
Some common application elements you may encounter:
- Online Application: Many positions require you to complete an online application form. This form typically includes personal information, work experience, and education. Along with requiring you to answer specific questions related to the job.
- Resume and Cover Letter: Some positions may require you to submit a resume and a cover letter highlighting your qualifications, relevant skills, and experiences. Remember to pay attention to any specific instructions provided for formatting or content.
- Online Video Interview: Most positions may involve an online video interview. This is typically conducted through video conferencing software like Zoom or Skype. Prepare for the interview by researching common interview questions and practicing your responses.
- In-Person Audition or Skills Demonstration: Certain positions, particularly those that involve wilderness and safety skills, may require you to travel to Yellowstone National Park for an in-person audition or skills demonstration. This allows you to showcase your abilities and proficiency in tasks relevant to the position.
It’s essential to carefully review the job description and application instructions for each position you are interested in. Take note of any specific requirements, certifications, permits, license deadlines, or additional documentation that may be needed.
Tailor your application materials to highlight relevant skills and experiences, demonstrating your passion for the park and the specific role you are applying for.
By understanding and following the application process specific to Yellowstone National Park, you can present yourself as a qualified and enthusiastic candidate, increasing your chances of being hired for the desired position.
How To Find Adventure Jobs in Yellowstone
Now that you know the players and the process of finding employment in the park, you’re probably asking yourself how you find open job opportunities. Well, you’ve come to the right place, and your first option in applying for a job in Yellowstone is to visit our job board.
If there isn’t anything on our job board, your next step would be to visit the official websites of the concessionaires within the park. Xanterra Travel Collection and Delaware North are both companies that operate within Yellowstone National Park at the time of this writing.
How To Find Jobs In Yellowstone National Park Through Xanterra
Visit Xanterra’s official website at Xanterrajobs.com.
- Scroll down the page until you find the section labeled “Montana/Wyoming” or a similar category corresponding to the park’s location.
- Click on the link that says “Work at Yellowstone National Park” or a similar option specific to Yellowstone.
- You will be directed to a page that provides information about working in Yellowstone and lists the main job categories.
- Click on the category that interests you to explore the available job positions within that area.
- After reviewing the general requirements for various job listings and identifying the best fit, click on the job title to be redirected to a signup page.
- Creating an account on their website is a necessary step to apply for jobs, and it offers the advantage of saving your information for future applications. This feature streamlines the process, enabling you to apply to multiple jobs more efficiently.
- Xanterra’s website also provides a function that tracks the jobs you’ve applied to and indicates the status of your application, provides valuable transparency and keeps you informed throughout the application process.
By following these steps, you can navigate Xanterra’s website to find job opportunities within Yellowstone National Park that are offered through their company, and by utilizing these features on the Xanterra website, you can effectively apply for multiple jobs, monitor the status of your applications, and increase your chances of securing a position within Yellowstone National Park.
How To Find Jobs In Yellowstone National Park Through Delaware North Corporation
Visit Delaware North’ ‘s official website at DNC.
- Scroll down the page until you find the section labeled “Divisions & Locations” or a similar category. Click on Location.
- You will be brought to a page populated by all the Delaware North Properties, and you will want to scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the Yellowstone tab.
- You will be brought to a page populated by all the Delaware North Properties, and you will want to scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the Yellowstone tab.
- This will bring you to DNC’s Yellowstone jobs page, which provides information about current job openings, locations, lifestyle, and general experience from working in Yellowstone.
- Delaware North offers seasonal jobs in Yellowstone in eight main categories.
- Culinary
- Retail
- Facilities
- Food & Beverage
- Human Resources
- Lodging
- Recreation
- Attractions
- Click on the category that interests you to explore the available job positions within that area.
- Read the job descriptions, requirements, and application instructions for the positions you are interested in.
- After reviewing the general requirements for various job listings and identifying the best fit, you can click on the job title to be redirected to the application & signup page.
- Creating an account on their website is a necessary step to apply for jobs, and it offers the advantage of saving your information for future applications. This feature streamlines the process, enabling you to apply to multiple jobs more efficiently in the future.
- Additionally, the website’s functionality also tracks the jobs you’ve applied to and indicates the status of your application, provides valuable transparency and keeps you informed throughout the application process.
By following these steps, you can navigate DNC’s website to find job opportunities within Yellowstone National Park that are offered through their company, and by utilizing these features on the DNC’s website, you can effectively apply for multiple jobs, monitor the status of your applications, and increase your chances of securing a position within Yellowstone National Park.
What Yellowstone “Adventure” Job Should You Apply For
Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of opportunities, and by exploring different job options, you can discover the perfect fit for your skills and interests.
Whether in hospitality, food services, maintenance, or other areas, the key is to approach the application process with an open mind and a willingness to try new things.
This can lead to an exciting journey filled with unique experiences and the chance to be a part of the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park.
When deciding which adventure job to apply for in Yellowstone National Park, consider your past experiences, skills, and interests.
While most jobs with these companies are entry-level and do not require a specific degree or skill level, having some relevant experience can be beneficial.
Here are a few steps to help you make a decision:

- Assess Your Experience: Take stock of your previous work experiences, including part-time jobs, internships, volunteer work, or any relevant skills you have developed. Consider what tasks or roles you have enjoyed or excelled in.
- Identify Interests and Preferences: Consider your interests and what aspects of working in a national park appeal to you. Are you passionate about customer service, hospitality, food services, or maintenance? Identifying your preferences can guide your job search more efficiently and accurately.
- Research Job Descriptions: Review the job descriptions provided by Xanterra, DNC (Delaware North Corporation), and other concessionaires operating within Yellowstone National Park. Pay attention to the specific responsibilities, qualifications, application deadlines, and requirements mentioned in each job listing.
- Match Skills and Experience: Match your skills, experiences, and interests with the job descriptions. Look for positions where you can leverage your existing skills or transferable experiences. If you need to gain relevant “work experience,” consider entry-level roles you are willing to learn and try.
- Apply to Multiple Jobs: Applying to multiple jobs increases your chances of getting noticed by recruiters. It allows you to explore different opportunities and increases the likelihood of finding a suitable match.
Remember, working in Yellowstone National Park can be a unique and rewarding experience. While entry-level positions may not require specific skills or degrees, showcasing enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn will make you a more desirable candidate and move your application to the front of the line.
Preparing For The Phone Interview For A Job In Yellowstone National Park
Once you have applied for a few jobs in Yellowstone National Park, the next step is waiting for a hiring manager’s reply. The wait time to hear back can range from a few days to weeks. The first email you will likely receive will be from a recruiter asking to set up a phone interview.
Interviewing over the phone for a long-distance job can be a challenge. However, you can do a few things to prepare and increase your chances of success.

- Practice your communication skills ~ Make sure you are able to communicate clearly and concisely over the phone. This means speaking slowly and clearly, enunciating your words, and avoiding using jargon. It would help if you also were prepared to answer questions about your skills and experience.
- Preparing For The Basic Interview Questions ~ The recruiter will likely start the interview by introducing themselves and asking a few general questions. Typical seasonal “adventure job” work-related interview questions may consist of
- “Tell me about a time you had conflict in the workplace?”
- “What relevant experience do you have to do this job?”
- “What traits do you bring to the workplace?”
Preparing responses to a few of these questions is a good idea. This way, you give yourself a clear picture of how you want to show the recruiter you are a good fit for the job.
Once these questions are finished, the recruiter will likely talk about Yellowstone and the company you have applied to. During this part, it is good to listen and take notes of the information they are giving you. The recruiter will discuss the job description, expectations, employee housing, employee dining room, benefits, and “employee” life at Yellowstone.
- Be ready to discuss how you would contribute to the unique Yellowstone experience ~ The interviewer will want to know why you are interested in working in Yellowstone National Park and how you would contribute to the park’s unique experience. Be prepared to discuss your passion for the outdoors and desire to work in a national park.
- Ask questions ~ At the end of the interview, the interviewer will likely ask if you have any questions. This is your opportunity to learn more about the job and the park. Be sure to ask questions that show your interest in the position and the park.
Since you are applying for a job with housing on the property, it’s crucial to be informed about the living and working situation if you’ve never worked a seasonal National Park Job.

Here are a few questions I recommend asking.
- What is the housing situation for employees?
- How many roommates will I have?
- What are the hours for the employee dining room?
- How much is taken out of my paycheck for room and board?
- What does a typical work day/week look like?
Asking about the housing and living situations is vital to knowing what your day-to-day life will look like while working in Yellowstone.
When considering why you are applying for a job in Yellowstone National Park, it’s essential to remember that your primary motivation is the opportunity to live and experience life in this unique environment. While the job is significant, the recruiter understands you’re seeking an inclusive experience in Yellowstone. During the interview process, there may come a point where the recruiter asks why you want to work and live in Yellowstone. In crafting your response, consider the following topics:
- Personal Connection ~ If you have previously visited Yellowstone, share your love and admiration for the park. Describe how the natural beauty, wildlife, and overall experience left a lasting impression on you, fueling your desire to be a part of this extraordinary place.
- New Life Experience ~ If you seek a unique and enriching life experience, express your excitement about immersing yourself in a different lifestyle. Highlight your desire to embrace Yellowstone’s stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and the sense of community that comes with living and working in such a remarkable setting.
- Honesty ~ It’s perfectly acceptable to be honest in your answer. Acknowledge that while the job is essential, your primary motivation is the opportunity to be a part of Yellowstone National Park and all that it encompasses. Emphasize your eagerness to contribute to the park’s mission, preserve its natural wonders, and share its beauty with visitors from around the world.
By expressing your genuine connection to Yellowstone, whether through past experiences or a desire for a new life adventure, you can demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for being a part of this iconic national park.

Here are a few additional tips for preparing for a phone interview:
- Find a quiet place to take the call.
- Have a copy of your resume and the job description in front of you.
- Dress professionally, even though you are not meeting in person.
- Be positive and enthusiastic.
- Thank the interviewer for their time.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in your phone interview for landing a job in Yellowstone National Park.
Remember working in a National Park is going to involve a ton of guest interaction so highlight your personality and customer service skills.
Getting A National Park Job Offer
After your interview, you are likely to receive a job offer. You may be offered the position at the end of the phone interview, or it may take a few days. When you are offered an employment contract, you will receive an official job offer from the company. The email should consist of four main things.
1. The job title.
2. The job pay rate.
3. The location you will be working at.
4. The Start/End date of the contract.
To accept your employment contract, follow the instructions at the end of the email.
In my experience, it was simply replying, “I agree and will accept this job position,” but make sure you follow the steps required in the email because today, technology can do things we never thought possible.
Adventure Job Onboarding

After you have accepted the offer, a series of emails will follow from HR or employee services. This is known as the onboarding process. You will fill out official documents, and some concessionaires will require you to complete a background check. You will also receive an email with in-depth details about life at Yellowstone.
After completing all the onboarding tasks, you are officially an employee of Yellowstone National Park! Soon you will live and work in one of our country’s most popular National Park!
Yellowstone Job Descriptions & Pay Rates
How much can you make working at Yellowstone National Park
Pay rates at Yellowstone National Park can vary depending on the job type, level of experience, time of year, and specific employer within the park.
Here is a breakdown of some popular job types and their corresponding pay rates (note that these rates are approximate and subject to change):
Yellowstone Nationa Park Pay Rates Based on Job
Adventure Job Titles | Base Wages | Tips | Seasonal Bonus |
---|---|---|---|
Lodging Positions | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Front Desk | $12.60/hr | $0 | $500* |
Housekeeper/Porter | $14.38/hr | $40/day | $500* |
Bell Hop | $11.10/hr | $20/day | $500* |
Concierge | $13.72/hr | $10/day | $500* |
Management | $18/hr | $0 | $1,500* |
Restaurant Positions | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Server/Bartender (Wyoming’s minimum wage for tipped employees ) | $2.13/hr | $150/day | $500* |
Flag Ranch Server/Bartender staff | $6/hr | $125/day | $300 |
Vail Front of House Staff | $9/hr | $165/day | $1200 |
Busser | $11/hr | $65/day | $500* |
Host | $12/hr | $50/day | $500* |
Cashier | $11/hr | $10/day | $500* |
Cook | $16/hr | $20/day | $1,000* |
Dishwasher | $17/hr | $0 | $1,500* |
Manager | $18/hr | $0 | $1,500* |
Marina Position | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Dockhand | $16/hr | $30/day | $500* |
Fishing Guide | $18/hr | $60/day | |
Ranch Position | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Wrangler | $16/hr | $30/day | $250* |
Retail Position | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Cashier | $13/hr | $0 | $500* |
Manager | $16/hr | $0 | $750* |
Maintenance Position | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Handyman/Maintenance | $21/hr | $0 | $1,500* |
Employee Service Positions | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Human Resources | $34,000/year | $0 | $0 |
Director/General Manager | $58,000/year | $0 | $0 |
Housing Coordinator | $28,000/year | $0 | $0 |
Activities Coordinator | $28,000/year | $0 | $0 |
Park Service Positions | Base Pay Per Hour | Average Tips | End Of Seasonal Bonus |
Park Ranger | $18.06/hr | $0 | $2,000* |
Supervisory Budget Analysis | $98,000/year | $0 | $0 |
Recreation Fee Clerk & Technician | $14.34/hr | $0 | $0 |
Visitor Service Assistant | $14.38/hr | $0 | $0 |
Park Guide | $16.14/hr | $0 | $0 |
Public Affairs | $64,000 | $0 | $0 |
Maintenance | $20.03 | $0 | $0 |
*At the time of this writing*
**Xanterra, at the time of this writing, is offering $350 to all employees who refer a new employee to work at Xanterra**
It’s important to note that these are general pay ranges, and there may be variations based on the specific employer, job responsibilities, employee experience, and current year.
For example, Wyoming’s minimum wage is only $2.13 an hour for all tipped employees, but after the COVID-19 pandemic, employers had to offer higher pay to entice employees to work for them. So some of the concessionaires in Yellowstone National Park now pay their servers & bartenders $6-$9/hr plus tips.
Additionally, some Yellowstone National Park positions offer additional employee benefits like employee housing, meals, National Park Pass, and access to recreational activities.
YellowStone Employee Housing Cost | Yellowstone Employee Meal Monthly Cost | Total Cost |
---|---|---|
Xanterra is $95.14/month for a dorm room | Xanterra is $355.28/month for 3 meals a day | $450.42/month |
Signal Mountain Lodge is $3.50/day | Signal Mountain Lodge $3.50/day | $210/month |
If you are considering working at Yellowstone National Park, I recommend researching the specific job you are interested in. Along with reviewing the job listings and/or contacting the employers directly to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on current pay rates and any additional employee benefits associated with the position you are applying to.
Yellowstone Lodging Job Descriptions With Average Pay Ranges
Housekeeping, Room Attendants, and Porters
These three positions are all part of the housekeeping department and play a vital role in keeping the lodge clean and comfortable for guests.

- Housekeepers are responsible for cleaning the hotel rooms after each check-out. This includes making the beds, cleaning the bathrooms, and tidying up the room.
- Room Attendants work with the housekeepers to assist in cleaning the rooms. They may help make the beds, clean the bathrooms, or tidy up the room.
- Porters attend to the public spaces within the lodge and keep them clean throughout the day. This includes cleaning the lobby, hallways, and restrooms.
The average pay for these positions ranges from $12-$18 per hour for front desk clerks and concierges and $10-$15 per hour for bellhops, plus tips.
Front Desk Clerks, Concierges, and Bellhops
- Yellowstone front-desk lodging positions are responsible for check-ins and check-outs, as well as answering questions and providing information to guests. They may also be responsible for reservations and room assignments.
- Concierges provide guests with information about the park and the surrounding area and make recommendations for activities and attractions. They may also help guests with booking tours and making restaurant reservations.
- Bellhops assist guests with luggage and provide other services, such as delivering messages and running errands. They may also be responsible for cleaning and maintaining the lobby area.
The average pay for these positions ranges from $12-$18 per hour for front desk clerks and concierges and $10-$15 per hour for bellhops, plus tips.
Wranglers/Dockhands
Wranglers and dockhands are two outdoor positions that offer the opportunity to work with guests and learn more about Yellowstone National Park.

- Wranglers provide guests with horseback riding tours and take care of the horses on the ranch. They must be able to ride horses safely and comfortably and have a good understanding of horsemanship. Wranglers must also be able to interact with guests in a friendly and informative way.
- Dockhands provide guests with kayaks and paddleboards to use on the lake. They must be able to load and unload gear and provide guests with instructions on how to use the equipment safely. Dockhands must also be able to interact with guests in a friendly and helpful way.
Both jobs are an excellent opportunity to spend your working days outside and learn more about Yellowstone, and the wages for these positions range from $15-$19 an hour, with the potential for tips.
Retail Jobs
- Retail sales clerks are responsible for operating the cash register in the gift shops within each lodge and checking out guests with their items.
- They also perform duties such as restocking shelves, keeping the store tidy, opening/closing the store, and balancing daily financials.
These positions are an excellent opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment and interact with guests from all over the world, and the pay for retail jobs ranges from $10-$15 per hour.

Food & Beverage Service Jobs
Yellowstone National Park lodges offer a variety of food service jobs, both front-of-house and back-of-house. These positions provide a unique opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment and interact with guests from around the world.
Yellowstone Front-of-House Job Descriptions
- Servers take guests’ orders and serve them throughout the meal.
- Server assistants help throughout the restaurant by clearing tables and running food.
- Hosts greet and seat guests in the dining areas.
- Cashiers ring up orders at a cash register.
- Bartenders make drinks for guests in the restaurant and serve people seated at the bar.
Back-of-House (May work in the employee dining room, also known as the “EDR”)
- Cooks prepare food as each order is received.
- Prep cooks prepare food before the restaurant opens so everything can be ready.
- Dishwashers assist in cleaning the dishes from the restaurant and kitchen.
- Chefs prepare food and make all executive decisions regarding the kitchen.
The pay for food service jobs ranges from $10-$15 per hour for front-of-house positions and $11-$17 for back-of-house positions. These positions allow you to learn more about Yellowstone and spend your working days interacting with guests.
Maintenance and Employee Services
Yellowstone National Park lodges also offer a variety of maintenance and employee services jobs. These positions all play a vital role in ensuring that the lodges and employee facilities are well-maintained and that employees have a positive experience living and working at the park.
- Maintenance employees are responsible for basic repairs throughout the lodges and employee spaces. This includes tasks such as fixing plumbing, electrical, and carpentry issues. Maintenance employees must be able to work independently and follow safety procedures.
- Employee services are responsible for new & existing employees with onboarding, housing & company communications
- Onboarding ~Employee services work with the human resources department to onboard new employees, including tasks such as providing new employees with their employee ID, orientation, and benefits information. As well as providing new employees with information about the park, the lodge, and their job duties. They also help new employees with paperwork, such as completing tax forms and setting up direct deposit.
- Housing ~ Employee services provide new employees with information about the housing options available at the park and work with the resident coordinator to assign housing to new employees. They take into account the employee’s preferences and availability when making assignments.
- Communications ~ Employee services will provide communication channels for employees to reach their lodge’s general manager. This includes providing employees with the general manager’s contact information and setting up a system for employees to submit feedback and concerns.
As you can see, there are tons of jobs within Yellowstone, so covering the specifics of each one is a bit difficult. It is good to thoroughly search the job listings and find one that works best for you!
Qualifications and Experience Required to Work for Yellowstone National Park Concessionaires
The qualifications and experience required for these positions vary depending on the specific role. However, most National Park jobs require excellent customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure.

Yellowstone Hours of Work and Shift Patterns
The hours of work and shift patterns for these positions vary depending on the lodge, specific role & guest demand.
However, most employment positions require some evening and weekend work, but all Yellowstone jobs will require holiday work.
However, my biggest surprise when working at Signal Mountain Lodge was how accommodating management was with our schedules. For example, on your Friday shift you’d be scheduled an A.M. shift, and on your Monday shift you’d be scheduled a P.M. shift to give you that extra half day on either side of your weekend.
Yellowstone Employee Benefits
Non-federal/Entry-Level YNP Employees
In addition to competitive pay, Yellowstone National Park lodges offer a variety of benefits, including discounted housing, discounted food, a FREE National Park Pass, flexible scheduling, adventure partners, and discounts on merchandise.
Federal Yellowstone National Park Employees
Yellowstone National Park Employees that work directly for the federal government, like park rangers, will experience more conventional employee benefits such as insurance, health, and retirement benefits.
YNP employees will receive these federal benefit options:

- FEHB – Federal Employees Health Benefits
- FHIP – Federal Health Insurance Plans
- HSA – Health Savings Account
- HDHP – High Deductible Health Plans
- FSAFEDS – Federal Flexible Spending Account
- FEDVIP – Federal Dental and Vision Program
- FEGLI – Federal Employees Group Life Insurance
- FLTCIP – Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program
- FERS – Federal Employees Retirement System
- TSP – Federal Thrift Savings Plan
Opportunities for Advancement Within Yellowstone National Park
Within Yellowstone National Park, there is an abundance of opportunities for career advancement and growth, especially from within the customer service department.
Employees who start as front desk clerks or concierges have the potential to progress into management positions with increased responsibilities and leadership roles.
These positions may involve overseeing the daily operations of the front desk, coordinating guest services, and managing a team of employees.
Managerial positions can sometimes lead to year-round employment, private housing and even extra bonuses.
Yellowstone Front Desk & Concierge Promotions
Front desk clerks and concierges who demonstrate strong customer service skills, leadership potential, and a commitment to the lodges may be promoted to management positions, such as front desk supervisor or concierge manager.
These positions offer the opportunity to oversee a team of employees, develop and implement customer service policies, and provide training to new employees.
Yellowstone Bellhops Promotions
Bellhops who are reliable, efficient, and have a positive attitude may be promoted to positions with more responsibility, such as valet parking or housekeeping.
These positions offer the opportunity to learn new skills, interact with guests in different settings, and take on more challenging tasks.
Yellowstone Restaurant Staff Promotions
Bartenders and servers at Yellowstone National Park lodges have the opportunity to advance their careers into management positions.
These positions offer the opportunity to oversee the daily operations of the front of the house, coordinating all in-house responsibilities, creating menus, ordering products, and managing a team of employees.
Some specific examples of management positions that bartenders and servers may be promoted to include:
- Front of House Supervisor
- Restaurant Manager
- Food and Beverage Director
Because these positions offer the opportunity to take on more responsibility and to develop new skills and knowledge. They also provide the chance to earn more money and to have a more significant impact on the success of the lodges.
In addition to these specific advancement opportunities, there are opportunities for customer service employees to advance their careers by transferring to other departments within the lodges, such as marketing, sales, or event planning. These departments offer the opportunity to work on a broader range of projects and responsibilities and to develop new skills and knowledge.
Overall, the customer service department at Yellowstone National Park lodges offers a variety of opportunities for advancement for employees who are committed to providing excellent customer service and willing to take on new challenges.
Where Can I Live And Work In Yellowstone National Park
Living and working in Yellowstone National Park offers year-round opportunities, with the peak season being the summer and the slower season occurring during winter. The summer season, which spans from April to October, is characterized by higher visitation and activity levels, while the winter season, which runs from December to March, sees a decrease in tourist numbers.
As an employer, Xanterra provides housing and meals to their full-time, seasonal employees throughout their contract duration. It’s important to note the following details regarding employee housing:

- Employee housing typically consists of dorm-style accommodations with two to four people per room and communal bathrooms.
- All utilities are included in the housing arrangements.
- Rent and meals are deducted from bi-weekly paychecks, costing an average of $300 to $400 monthly.
- Meals are served in the employee dining room during scheduled hours, offering three daily meal options.
If you’re considering working during a specific season, there are peak hiring months to remember. For the summer season, Xanterra generally begins the hiring process in January or February. For the winter season, hiring typically takes place in July or August. However, it’s still possible to apply outside of these months, as Xanterra employs a substantial number of individuals in Yellowstone, ensuring ongoing opportunities for new hires.
By familiarizing yourself with the hiring patterns during different seasons and considering the details provided about housing, meals, and the hiring process, you can approach the application process with greater confidence and ensure you are well informed about the specific requirements and opportunities available within Yellowstone National Park.
Here is a table that summarizes the hiring seasons for Yellowstone:
Season | Peak Hiring Months |
Summer | January/Feburary |
Winter | July/August |
Embrace the Yellowstone Lifestyle
What Are National Park Employees Called
While “park rangers” and “park service employees” are commonly associated with national parks, other terms are used to refer to employees working in national parks, depending on the context.
National Park Employees are referred to as “Parkies,” which is used to describe individuals who work ordinary jobs within the park but are not employed directly by the park service. These individuals may work for private companies operating within the park under concessions contracts. It’s important to note that the specific terminology can vary, and there may be regional or park-specific variations in the names used for national park employees.
Working in Yellowstone National Park is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s vibrant ecosystem and engage with visitors worldwide.
Absorb the Yellowstone lifestyle by learning about the park’s history, geological wonders, and wildlife. Be prepared to share your knowledge and passion with visitors, creating memorable experiences that inspire a love for nature and conservation.
Applying for a seasonal adventure job in Yellowstone National Park is your gateway to an extraordinary experience, where your workplace becomes a natural wonderland.
By researching available positions, understanding the application process, tailoring your application materials, and preparing for interviews or assessments, you can increase your chances of joining the dedicated team that helps preserve and share the wonders of Yellowstone.
Alternative Adventure Job Opportunities To Work In Yellowstone National Park
If you can’t find a job with a concessionaire within the park or didn’t receivable a favorable response to your Yellowstone application, there are always local operations you can apply to.
National parks are often surrounded by local communities that rely on tourism and recreational activities. Exploring job opportunities in these nearby towns or cities can also provide an avenue to live close to a national park and enjoy its surroundings.

I call these towns “gateway towns,” and throughout the years I’ve found them to be more enjoyable atmospheres to work in. As well as more profitable.
Positions may range from hospitality and tourism-related jobs to retail, outdoor guiding, and interpreting. I’ve also known many friends who have moved to a gateway town to start their own business catering to park visitors.
As you embark on this remarkable journey, we invite you to share your own stories and helpful tips with our vibrant community.
Whether you’ve worked in Yellowstone or have valuable advice, we encourage you to email us or leave a comment below.
Your experiences and wisdom will inspire others and contribute to building a stronger and more informed community. Together, let’s forge connections, ignite passions, and embrace the opportunity to contribute to Yellowstone National Park’s legacy.