Senior citizens, ex-military sought for summer jobs at state parks, beaches


With nearly 450 seasonal workers needed to staff state parks and beaches this summer, higher pay and flexible hours are being offered to combat the declining labor pool of teenagers.

The Department of Environmental Management is working to fill the gap by recruiting senior citizens and retired military personnel to become lifeguards, park rangers, beach managers, restroom attendants, laborers and nature educators.

According to the Federal Reserve, there are 50 percent fewer teens seeking jobs than 20 years ago, which led to lifeguard shortages at Misquamicut, East Matunuck and Goddard Park in summer 2018. While there are limited opportunities in Jamestown, there are nearly two dozen jobs available in Newport.

“We’ve always relied on a good percentage of Jamestowners filling key positions at Fort Adams and Brenton Point state parks,” said spokesman Michael Healey.

On Conanicut Island, a laborer is needed at Fort Wetherill and a park naturalist is needed at Beavertail. According to Healey, the naturalist works directly with the public to educate visitors about the environment.

“They must be knowledgeable about park history, features and attractions in order to address visitor needs and provide information,” he said. “Park naturalists conduct tours of the grounds and serve as protectors of public property.”

According to the DEM, 9 million annual visits to these recreational areas add roughly $350 million to the economy and supports 4,000 jobs. Rhode Island residents at least 16 years old are encouraged to apply online.