Press Releases
02/11/2026
DEEP Announces Recruitment Campaign to fill Seasonal Employment Opportunities Across the State
DEEP To Hold Job Fair on March 15th at Black Rock State Park
(HARTFORD)—The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is now accepting applications for hundreds of seasonal positions. Opportunities include working in outdoor recreation, conservation, forestry, scientific research and law enforcement. Positions are available across the state; in field offices, parks, boat launches, forests and indoor educational centers and museums.
The majority of available seasonal positions are located within our state parks and forests. The roles include maintainers, campground office staff, park rangers, ticket booth attendants, lifeguards, and interpretive guides/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 positions start at $16.94 per hour. Lifeguard salaries start at $20.00 per hour due to the higher level of training required. Most seasonal employees are hired for the peak season from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. However, there are also opportunities for many employees to work prior to Memorial Day weekend and after Labor Day as well. Seasonal employees are generally required to work weekends and holidays, as those are our busiest times, and therefore the agency’s highest need for staffing.
“I began my career in a seasonal outdoor role, an experience that helped shape my professional journey in conservation,” said DEEP Deputy Commissioner Mason Trumble. “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.”
To view and apply for available positions, visit the DEEP seasonal employment webpage. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as applicants are hired on a rolling basis as needed. Those interested in lifeguard positions should view more information on required pre-requisite skills listed on the lifeguard program webpage.
Highlighted Seasonal Job Openings
- Western Connecticut: Seasonal positions are available at locations throughout the state, mostly at various state parks and forests. The need for staff, particularly for maintainer and campground positions, is higher in the western part of the state at locations including the park units encompassing Macedonia Brook State Park, Lake Waramaug State Park, Kettletown State Park, and Topsmead State Forest/Black Rock State Park.
- Lifeguards: Employed at eight state parks with swimming areas, lifeguards are trained to the highest water safety standards to maintain safety at our waterfronts. Apply ASAP as tryouts will be held throughout the winter and spring.
- Law Enforcement: There are multiple opportunities to protect and patrol our parks as seasonal patrol officers (Environmental Conservation, or “EnCon” Rangers) who provide public safety through education, outreach, and enforcement. Applications accepted until March 2, 2026.
- Natural Resources: The DEEP Bureau of Natural Resources hires seasonal staff to work with the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Forestry Divisions on a variety of projects related to research, field work, outreach, education, and more.
- Boating: The DEEP Boating Division has several opportunities available related to boating safety and education, boat launch maintenance, and more.
Seasonal Job Fair to be held Sunday, March 15, 2026
A job fair highlighting seasonal opportunities working within DEEP’s Bureau of Outdoor Recreation will be held at DEEP’s Western District Headquarters at Black Rock State Park, Watertown on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. DEEP staff members from the Parks, Boating, and Environmental Conservation Police divisions will be available to speak with potential candidates. Assistance will be available for those who want to apply for a seasonal position on site. More information is available on the Seasonal Job Fair event page. This event is open to the public.
DEEP is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
- Twitter: @CTDEEPNews
- Facebook: DEEP on Facebook
Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110