Summary
Some seasonal workers at Yosemite National Park worked without pay for several weeks due to delays in hiring caused by federal budget cuts. These workers eventually received hourly wages but were not compensated for the initial period when they worked voluntarily. The delays in hiring were partly due to staff reductions and rehiring challenges within the National Park Service.
Key Facts
- Seasonal workers at Yosemite worked up to six weeks without pay in the spring and summer.
- Workers initially volunteered while waiting to be officially hired and put on the federal payroll.
- Yosemite National Park depends on seasonal workers for various roles during its busiest months.
- In February 2025, the federal government terminated around 1,000 new hires, including 10 full-time employees at Yosemite.
- The high turnover and rehiring placed a burden on the Human Resources division.
- The National Park Service saw a 24% decline in permanent staff from January to July 2025.
- Seasonal workers often rely on their jobs for housing within the park due to its remote location.
