Interpretive Volunteer

Have you ever wanted to find out what it’s like to be a park ranger? Are you seeking to learn and expand your skills as an interpreter? Then Gila Cliff Dwellings may be the perfect opportunity.

• Volunteers seeking or having experience presenting interpretive dialogue for the cliff dwellings are welcome.
• Volunteers also provide informal interpretation related to surrounding cultural and natural resources.
• Volunteers staff the Gila Visitor Center providing regional orientation and information to visitors.
• Training is provided.

Volunteers live and work at an altitude of about 5800 feet (1780m). The park is open year-round, and volunteers spend 75% – 100% of their workday outside and will be exposed to a wide range of weather conditions and temperatures. Staffing the cliff dwellings requires a 2–3-hour block where you will be standing for extended periods of time. To reach the cliff dwellings you will hike an unpaved one-mile loop trail that is steep and strenuous several times a day, fairly quickly. The 185-foot elevation gain (and loss) traveling to the dwellings is the equivalent of climbing 18 flights of stairs with no handrails. All volunteers must be able to hike the trail more than once a day.

Volunteers are asked to commit to a minimum 32 hour work week, for three months. There is flexibility in start and end dates. Longer stays are possible if both parties find it beneficial to extend the term of service.

The national monument is located within the remote Gila Wilderness of southwestern New Mexico. The monument and park housing is a 44 mile drive from the town of Silver City, NM. Enjoy amazing scenery and outstanding local recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, photography, wilderness hot springs, wildlife observation, and much more.

A limited number of dorm rooms for singles are usually available and there may be RV sites with full hookups available.

We have top-of-the-line Starlink internet for volunteers! There is no data cap, and it is free for all VIPs to use. Although there is no cell service, wifi calling will work with smart phones. In case of a power outage, land-line phones are also available at the visitor center.

NOTE: Please include three references (with phone numbers) Couples must complete applications for EACH person.

Due to the remoteness, reliable personal transportation and a valid driver’s license are required.