The typical defined season is not to exceed 6 months between Apr-Oct but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: April-May 2027. Open to the first 40 applicants or until 10/26/2026 whichever comes first.
Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Responsible for feeding proper types and amounts of rations in both front country and back country situations - insuring they receive proper nutrition during times of heavy work and off times and insuring they are fed properly on his/her lieu days.
Responsible for basic veterinary care of animals including but not limited to: worming, vaccinating, administering medication and dressing wounds. Responsible for the recognition of more serious injuries/illness and the coordination of required medical care. Responsible for performing farrier duties at regular intervals without causing injury to stock or people and ensuring stock is properly shod before heading into the backcountry.
Responsible for safely leading strings of up to 8-head over rough mountain trails, requiring long days on the trail and spending up to seven consecutive nights camped in remote backcountry settings. Physical Effort: the incumbent must possess good coordination and endurance for hiking, leading of pack string and operation of vehicles, equipment and power/hand tools.
the incumbent will be subjected to some degree of strain when operation vehicles and equipment for extend periods of time over rough surfaces and uneven grades. The incumbent frequently lifts, pushes, pulls, and carries items weighing 50 lbs. On occasion, the incumbent may lift and carry tools and materials weighing up to 100 lbs. The incumbent may be required to walk up to 20 miles per day, over steep and/or rough trails.
Working Conditions: Work is performed in elevations ranges from sea level to 8000 ft. Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures (hot/cold). Terrain is often rugged and steep with unsure footing. Hazards include falling limbs/trees/rocks, rough terrain, snow slides and unpredictable interactions with stock animals. Work requires strenuous hiking and physical effort in the management of stock animals.
Incumbent will be required to spend up to eight consecutive nights camping in a backcountry setting.
There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.
This position is with National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
The posted pay range is $31.56 – $36.82/hr.
Applications close on 2026-10-26.
There are 4 openings for this position.
This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-19 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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