Hartford, Connecticut – The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has launched a recruitment campaign to fill hundreds of seasonal employment opportunities across the state, offering positions in outdoor recreation, conservation, forestry, scientific research, and law enforcement.
The openings span various locations including field offices, state parks, boat launches, forests, and indoor educational centers and museums. Most positions are within state parks and forests, encompassing roles such as maintainers, campground office staff, park rangers, ticket booth attendants, lifeguards, and interpretive guides or educators.
“A seasonal position with DEEP can provide a unique experience for those interested in a future career path in the environmental field, a change of scenery for educators looking to share knowledge in a new environment, or a way for active retirees to make a positive impact while sharing past experiences,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Our seasonal positions are for everyone, and we’re looking to hire a diverse and motivated group of individuals to fill these roles.”
Salaries for most seasonal roles begin at $16.94 per hour, while lifeguard positions start at $20.00 per hour, reflecting the specialized training required. Peak season employment typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, though many roles offer pre- and post-season work. Employees must generally be available for weekends and holidays during high-visitation periods.
DEEP Deputy Commissioner Mason Trumble shared his personal perspective: “I began my career in a seasonal outdoor role, an experience that helped shape my professional journey in conservation. Seasonal positions provide hands-on experience, opportunities to build valuable skills, and the chance to serve the public while working on Connecticut’s incredible public lands. Many of our seasonal employees return year after year, and as visitation to our parks and forests continues to grow, these staff members are critical to our operations and long-term success.”
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the DEEP seasonal employment webpage. Candidates for lifeguard roles should review prerequisite skills on the dedicated lifeguard program page. Hiring occurs as needs arise, so early applications are encouraged.
Highlighted opportunities include:
- Western Connecticut: Maintainer and campground positions at Macedonia Brook State Park, Lake Waramaug State Park, Kettletown State Park, and Topsmead State Forest/Black Rock State Park.
- Lifeguards: Positions at eight state parks with swimming areas, emphasizing water safety standards. Tryouts are scheduled through winter and spring.
- Law Enforcement: Seasonal patrol officers, known as Environmental Conservation or “EnCon” Rangers, focusing on public safety via education, outreach, and enforcement. Applications close March 2, 2026.
- Natural Resources: Roles in the Bureau of Natural Resources with the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Forestry Divisions, involving research, fieldwork, outreach, and education.
- Boating: Positions in the Boating Division for safety, education, and boat launch maintenance.
To connect with prospective employers, DEEP will host a seasonal job fair on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Western District Headquarters in Black Rock State Park, Watertown. Staff from the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, including Parks, Boating, and Environmental Conservation Police divisions, will be on hand. On-site application assistance will be provided, and the event is open to the public. Further details are available on the event page.
DEEP promotes itself as an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, welcoming diverse applicants to contribute to Connecticut’s environmental stewardship and public land management. These seasonal roles not only support operational needs amid rising park visitation but also offer pathways into long-term environmental careers.
For more information, visit Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.