Summary of Position

North Cascades Institute is seeking qualified, enthusiastic individuals to join our retail team. North Cascades Institute is a nonprofit cooperating association that supports North Cascades National Park Complex by the operations of seven retail stores within and adjacent to the Park. The Newhalem Visitor Center is one of the most popular stores, with well over 125,000 visitors each summer. The stores offer books, trail guides, maps, educational products, and mementos that appeal to a variety of visitors and inspire them to experience, enjoy and appreciate the North Cascades. Retail Assistants will work closely with the Institute’s Retail Associate, with National Park Interpretive Rangers and other Institute employees to help visitors explore the ecosystems and increase their awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the North Cascades National Park and the North Cascades.

Multiple positions are available. Dates of employment range between mid-May through September/early October (exact dates below). These are seasonal/temporary, non-exempt, full-time positions based out of the Newhalem North Cascades National Park Visitor Center.

Responsibilities

• Accept guidance from our Lead Sales Associate
• Provide excellent customer service
• Handle sales transactions
• Maintain orderly, attractive appearance of retail area including timely merchandise displays
• Maintain a working knowledge of all stock in order to hand sell to visitors
• Maintain inventory stock in stores to meet sales: restock as needed
• Develop expertise in use of the Point of Sale (POS) system and sales register
• Maintain financial records for opening and closing of the till and Park pass inventory.
• Assist (when needed) at two additional locations in the same locale, though 85% + of your time will be in the main Visitor Center at Newhalem.
• Become versed in North Cascades Institute’s mission and programs to cultivate public awareness
• Familiarity with National Park and National Recreation Area trails and campgrounds

Job Duration and Schedule

There are three position durations available.

• May 13 - September 30, 2026, full-time (40 hours per week)
• May 13 - October 11, 2026, full-time (40 hours per week)
• May 20 - September 1, 2026, full-time (32 hours per week)

Weekly days off are consistently set but can be switched out with other employees. Any extended time off concerns, i.e. weddings, family reunions, etc., would be difficult to accommodate unless it is in September.

Housing

Good quality housing is available through the Institute at $397/month including utilities, considerably below market rates. Private rooms in shared houses are typically available but not guaranteed. In some cases, roommates in shared rooms may be required, at $198.50/month.

Application Deadline

Position will remain open until filled.

To Apply

Please apply online on our website at: https://ncascades.org/jobs

Complete the online application and upload a cover letter and resume.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a high priority at North Cascades Institute. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, military, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, age, citizenship or any other basis prohibited by law in any of its policies or programs.

About North Cascades Institute

North Cascades Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest - so all will care for and protect this special place.

North Cascades Institute is a respected leader among U.S. environmental education organizations, and we believe that sustainable communities are built on healthy environments, vibrant economies and social equity. The Institute is in sound financial health with a $4 million budget and strong reserves, and 21 four-star ratings with Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.

• Exemplary customer service skills in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills
• Superior organizational skills, ability to multi-task and prioritize among various tasks
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Accuracy and thoroughness in following procedures and in record keeping
• Administrative experience and direct customer service experience
• Experience with inventory, management Point of Sales (POS) system
• Able to move from task to task with frequent interruptions
• Must own reliable transportation
• Able to lift up to 40 pounds
• Valid driver’s license and driving record check must have no more than one moving violation in the past three years, no DUI, reckless driving or serious moving violations, etc.
• Final offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check that may include employment history, national criminal background check, national sex offender registry search and a driving history check

Compensation

This is a seasonal/temporary, full-time, non-exempt position. The wage is $19.00 per hour.

Benefits

• Sick leave - accrued at the rate of .04615 per hour
• Vacation leave - accrued at the rate of .01925 per hour
• Paid holidays – 3-4 days estimated through September
• Option to defer compensation as a pre-tax deferral in our retirement plan
• Ability to participate in Institute pro deals

Benefits are prorated for employees working less than 40 hours per week.

Housing

Good quality housing is available through the Institute at $397/month including utilities, considerably below market rates. Private rooms in shared houses are typically available but not guaranteed. In some cases, roommates in shared rooms may be required, at $198.50/month.