I applied online. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at National Park Service (New Brunswick, NJ) in May 2014
Interview
Took a while for the application to be processed through USAjobs.gov; Interview was over the phone, and very chill. My supervisor was very friendly and open, so it was more a conversation about what I was interested in doing with my education (degree in ecology and natural resources). He asked whether I was familiar with the ecosystem, invasive plants, hiking mountains, camping, and working long hours. Once the interview was done, he gave me about a week to let me know whether I had gotten the position.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Are you confident in your ability to work long hours in potentially adverse weather conditions?
The interview was 30 minutes long with a series of questions relevant to the position and about your experience. There was also a brief description of the position. The meeting was conducted through Microsoft teams with leaders of the positions.
I interviewed at National Park Service (Fritch, TX)
Interview
Phone call with lead and supervisor. It was a really good set of questions and the interviewer did a good job of making it feel more like a conversation and less like an interrogation.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How do you feel about hiking long distances and camping out for days at a time?
How much do you know about identifying plants in the field?
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 3 months. I interviewed at National Park Service in Feb 2021
Interview
The interview process was professional and personable. I didn't feel overwhelmed with questions or information given to me during the interview. My interviewers were also very honest and open with me about my potential daily tasks and the work environment.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
If you were at the ramp and encountered a difficult boater or visitor during boat inspections, how would you handle the situation. (no right or wrong answer)