Trump admin to hire 500 officers for National Park Service

By Heather Richards | 11/17/2025 01:09 PM EST

The push includes hiring both for the Park Police and law enforcement for national parks around the country.

U.S. Park Police officers work their horses past the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall in Washington.

U.S. Park Police officers on Aug. 28 work their horses past the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall in Washington. J. Scott Applewhite/AP

The National Park Service is launching a recruitment drive in hopes of attracting hundreds of experienced cops as part of the Trump administration’s focus on ramping up federal law enforcement across the nation.

The agency is seeking 300 law enforcement officers to work for the U.S. Park Police, which operates in Washington, New York City and San Francisco. It also aims to hire 200 officers to work at national park sites across the country, the agency announced Friday.

“We are looking for experienced officers who are ready to step into one of the most unique and rewarding law enforcement roles in the federal government,” said Frank Lands, National Park Service deputy director for operations, in a statement. “These officers will help protect irreplaceable resources, support our park communities, and ensure millions of visitors can enjoy their national parks safely.”

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The agency, which is offering a $70,000 hiring bonus, noted that it is looking for seasoned law enforcement officers for the roles to expedite hiring. Those eligible must have completed a federal, state, local or tribal law enforcement academy or been sworn-in officers within the past three years. Candidates will be required to complete a four-week bridge training course and then do 11 weeks of field training with experienced NPS law enforcement personnel, according to the park service.

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