Working by Nature: What Discover Parks Ambassadors Say About the Experience

Discover Parks Ambassadors work in provincial parks across British Columbia, welcoming visitors, sharing knowledge about the land, and running programs that help people feel confident and cared for in outdoor spaces. Their days are spent outside answering questions, leading guided walks, running children’s activities, and talking with people about the places they’ve come to enjoy.

Those conversations are central to the role. Ambassadors meet families, first-time campers, international visitors, and lifelong park-goers, often becoming the point of connection between people and place.

Nature interpretation has deep roots in BC Parks. Beginning in the late 1950s, interpretive programs helped shape British Columbia’s reputation for meaningful, engaging park experiences, inviting visitors to understand both where they were and why these places matter. Over time, a lack of consistent funding meant interpretation was no longer available across much of the park system.

In 2020, that began to change. A partnership between BC Parks and BC Parks Foundation helped bring interpretation back through the launch of the Discover Parks program. What started in five parks has grown into a presence in 25 parks across the province, reaching more than 750,000 visitors in just five years.

For ambassadors, being part of that legacy adds depth to the work they do every day.

Alongside park knowledge, ambassadors build skills that carry well beyond the summer. Many describe growing into leadership roles, gaining confidence speaking with the public, and learning how to engage thoughtfully with a wide range of people. Ambassadors also receive industry-standard interpretive training, earn an OCC Field Leader Certificate, and are supported in obtaining Standard First Aid, credentials that strengthen both their confidence and their future career paths.

The impact of the program is often visible in small, meaningful moments: children getting curious, families lingering longer, visitors feeling more connected to the places they’re exploring. Parents regularly share what the experience meant to them.

Again and again, ambassadors speak about purpose: knowing their work helps make parks welcoming, inclusive places where everyone belongs.

Discover Parks Ambassador positions for summer 2026 are now open. These full-time, paid seasonal roles offer young people the chance to spend a summer working outdoors, learning from passionate mentors, and helping visitors create meaningful experiences in BC’s parks.

Whether you’re exploring the opportunity for yourself, or sharing it with someone who would thrive working by nature, we invite you to learn more.

View the job posting →