What are the responsibilities and job description for the Maintenance Worker (Trails) (Seasonal) position at National Park Service?
Summary
These vacancies are Temporary Seasonal positions Not to Exceed: 1039 Hours in a service year. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period is APRIL / MAY 2025.
Help
Duties
This Open-Continuous announcement for temporary seasonal positions has been re-opened due to an exemption to the 2025 Civilian Hiring Freeze. If you previously applied to this announcement, you do not need to re-apply.
This is an open continuous vacancy announcement; applicants will be referred periodically throughout the announcement period. Final application disposition will be completed once all positions have been filled; the announcement reaches the closing date stated in the announcement. The first cut-off date is 10-FEBRUARY-2025.
MAJOR DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:
Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT), Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprints reading), Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment, Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation Repair, etc., Knowledge of materials, Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic), and Use of Measuring Instruments
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.
SCREEN OUT: Have the ability to perform the most difficult and complex maintenance worker (trails) duties. This includes construction of multi-use bridges, stone stair cases, multi-tier retaining walls, causeways, and reroutes. I have utilized advanced rigging techniques using block, tackle and winch systems. I have used chainsaws to fall hazard trees, remove root balls, and clear fallen trees from trails. I have led others in the performance of such tasks as a regular part of my duties. I have extensive experience in trail maintenance and can operate and repair a variety of tools and equipment related to the tasks above. I take initiative to solve complex problems and can accomplish the most complex work assignments. I can lift and carry objects weighing more than 50 pounds.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.
Additional information
ADDITIONAL SELECTIONS: This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate.
Non-Competitive Rehire Eligibility: Temporary seasonal employees can only maintain their non-competitive rehire eligibility if they work no more than a combined total of Temporary NTE less than 1040 hours anywhere in the National Park Service (NPS) within their established service year. Accordingly, non-competitive rehire eligibility allows for re-appointment to the same position or another position appropriate for temporary appointment with the same qualification requirements (5 CFR 316.402[b][7]), based on series and grade, anywhere in the major subdivision (NPS).
If you have held a temporary seasonal appointment in the past 12 months and have already worked the maximum temporary appointment less than 1040 hours during that period, you are still welcome to apply. However, please be aware that exceeding the limit of 1040 hours in your established service year will result in the loss of your non-competitive rehire eligibility.
The limit can be exceeded by working multiple temporary seasonal positions that result in a combined total greater than 1040 hours. The limit also can be exceeded by working a single temporary seasonal appointment that exceeds 1040 hours, unless granted an exception by OPM.
Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Heavy physical effort is required in bending, lifting, and using hand and power tools in trail work. Examples of typical strenuous activity include: Frequently lifts and carries objects weighing over 100 pounds, must carry and roll rocks and logs, move rocks of several tons with rock bars, use hammers to crush or shape rock, and use shovel extensively. Frequently hikes up to 20 miles daily. and must be able to do so while carrying a backpack, power and/or hand tools.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Incumbent must have the ability to live and work effectively in backcountry areas in close contact with small numbers of people for extended periods of time. Incumbent must live and work out-of-doors on projects in various terrain up to 13,000 feet elevation in all extremes of adverse weather conditions. Trail work is dusty, and hazardous conditions may exist when moving rocks and logs, working in and around rockslide areas, working around stock, working around explosives, falling and bucking trees, and working around machinery.
TELEWORK: The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are not suitable for telework.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
These vacancies are Temporary Seasonal positions Not to Exceed: 1039 Hours in a service year. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period is APRIL / MAY 2025.
Help
Duties
This Open-Continuous announcement for temporary seasonal positions has been re-opened due to an exemption to the 2025 Civilian Hiring Freeze. If you previously applied to this announcement, you do not need to re-apply.
This is an open continuous vacancy announcement; applicants will be referred periodically throughout the announcement period. Final application disposition will be completed once all positions have been filled; the announcement reaches the closing date stated in the announcement. The first cut-off date is 10-FEBRUARY-2025.
MAJOR DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:
- Performs masonry work, primarily masonry tasks include the maintenance, repair, and construction of walls (both single- and multi-tier), bridge abutments, causeways, riprap trail tread and other similar structures, using primarily dry-stone techniques. In accordance with directions, quarries, cuts, shapes and finishes stone for use in walls, walkways, bridge abutments and aesthetically pleasing rock walls. Where wet masonry is determined appropriate, mixes and applies mortar in proper proportions. Obtains and transports materials by human power, equipment (such as Bobcat loader), or rigging equipment such as a high-line setup. These tasks are normally performed under the direction of a higher- graded worker/leader/supervisor. The incumbent must be able to work with a great deal of independence once a maintenance worker leader or supervisor has given direction and technical guidance. Uses a variety of tools associated with the mason trade: single and double jacks. rock bars, line levels, string lines, tape measures, air-driven or pion-jar rock drills and related attachments, chisels, cement mixers, trowels, etc.
- Performs carpentry work, primarily using heavy log and rough-sawn lumber, on trail structures such as log checks, foot-bridges, multi-use bridges, corrals, hitch rails, and boardwalks. Log work tasks involve the use of a chain saw to fell, buck, notch, and/or shape both native and pressure treated logs in the maintenance and construction of multi-use and foot bridges, water bars and retainer steps, crib walls and steps. Incumbent also extensively uses chain saws in clearing trails of down trees and brush. Builds accessible trails which includes lining trail edges with pressure-treated logs cut and fit together to meet ADA guidelines. Incumbent is knowledgeable in using, maintaining, and repairing chain saws, gas-powered drills, timber tongs, draw knives, wood chisels, scribes, calipers and other tools associated with log work. Carpentry work is mostly involved in the maintenance and construction of boardwalks that are located in riparian areas within the Park. Measures, cuts, and installs dimensional lumber using on-site measurements, verbal and/or written directions, blueprints or from simple plans and specifications. Uses a wide variety of tools associated with the carpentry trade: hand saws, power circular saws, jig saws, power and hand drills, hand planers, power planers, generators, and carpentry hand tools.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
- Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males.
- DIRECT DEPOSIT: Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
- DRIVER'S LICENSE: You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
- UNIFORM: You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
- WORK SCHEDULE: You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
- GOVERNMENT HOUSING: Occupancy of government housing maybe available.
- MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT: Applicants must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or(c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.
To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:
Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT), Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprints reading), Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment, Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation Repair, etc., Knowledge of materials, Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic), and Use of Measuring Instruments
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.
SCREEN OUT: Have the ability to perform the most difficult and complex maintenance worker (trails) duties. This includes construction of multi-use bridges, stone stair cases, multi-tier retaining walls, causeways, and reroutes. I have utilized advanced rigging techniques using block, tackle and winch systems. I have used chainsaws to fall hazard trees, remove root balls, and clear fallen trees from trails. I have led others in the performance of such tasks as a regular part of my duties. I have extensive experience in trail maintenance and can operate and repair a variety of tools and equipment related to the tasks above. I take initiative to solve complex problems and can accomplish the most complex work assignments. I can lift and carry objects weighing more than 50 pounds.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
- ICTAP/CTAP - Current surplus and current or former displaced Federal individuals who have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must be well qualified for the position to receive consideration for special priority selection. Well qualified means that the applicant meets the following: OPM qualification standards for the position; all selective placement factors, where applicable; special qualifying conditions that OPM has approved for the position, where applicable; is physically qualified with reasonable accommodation, where appropriate to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position upon entry; and is rated by the organization at least at the well qualified level on all competencies. Federal employees seeking CTAP/ICTAP eligibility must submit proof that they meet the requirements of 5 CFR 330.605(2) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of their most recent Performance Rating, and a copy of their most recent SF-50 noting current position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP/ICTAP eligible. If you are selected for Federal employment, you will be required to fill out a Declaration of Federal Employment, OF-306, prior to being appointed to determine your suitability for Federal employment and to authorize a background investigation. Failing to answer all questions truthfully and completely or providing false statements on your application may be grounds for not hiring you, or for firing you after you begin work. Also, you may be punished by fine or imprisonment (U.S. Code, Title 18, section 1001).
There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.
Additional information
ADDITIONAL SELECTIONS: This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate.
Non-Competitive Rehire Eligibility: Temporary seasonal employees can only maintain their non-competitive rehire eligibility if they work no more than a combined total of Temporary NTE less than 1040 hours anywhere in the National Park Service (NPS) within their established service year. Accordingly, non-competitive rehire eligibility allows for re-appointment to the same position or another position appropriate for temporary appointment with the same qualification requirements (5 CFR 316.402[b][7]), based on series and grade, anywhere in the major subdivision (NPS).
If you have held a temporary seasonal appointment in the past 12 months and have already worked the maximum temporary appointment less than 1040 hours during that period, you are still welcome to apply. However, please be aware that exceeding the limit of 1040 hours in your established service year will result in the loss of your non-competitive rehire eligibility.
The limit can be exceeded by working multiple temporary seasonal positions that result in a combined total greater than 1040 hours. The limit also can be exceeded by working a single temporary seasonal appointment that exceeds 1040 hours, unless granted an exception by OPM.
Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Heavy physical effort is required in bending, lifting, and using hand and power tools in trail work. Examples of typical strenuous activity include: Frequently lifts and carries objects weighing over 100 pounds, must carry and roll rocks and logs, move rocks of several tons with rock bars, use hammers to crush or shape rock, and use shovel extensively. Frequently hikes up to 20 miles daily. and must be able to do so while carrying a backpack, power and/or hand tools.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Incumbent must have the ability to live and work effectively in backcountry areas in close contact with small numbers of people for extended periods of time. Incumbent must live and work out-of-doors on projects in various terrain up to 13,000 feet elevation in all extremes of adverse weather conditions. Trail work is dusty, and hazardous conditions may exist when moving rocks and logs, working in and around rockslide areas, working around stock, working around explosives, falling and bucking trees, and working around machinery.
TELEWORK: The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are not suitable for telework.
Read more
- Help A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
