Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal) Career Opportunity
The National Park Service (NPS) is offering a challenging and rewarding opportunity for skilled tradespeople to join the team at the Gateway National Recreation Area. This seasonal Maintenance Mechanic role is essential for maintaining the infrastructure of our national parks during the winter season. If you have a background in plumbing, electrical work, masonry, or painting, this is your chance to contribute to the preservation of our public lands.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Mechanic, you will:
- Perform routine and corrective maintenance on park grounds and buildings.
- Execute plumbing, electrical, and painting tasks using professional-grade tools.
- Operate and maintain snow and ice removal equipment.
- Winterize NPS facilities to ensure they remain functional during extreme weather.
- Inspect structures for damage and perform minor repairs.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a valid driver's license.
- Be able to lift 50 pounds unassisted.
- Meet the age requirements (16-18+).
- Pass a background check and suitability assessment.
Comparison: Summer vs. Winter Seasonal Roles
| Feature | Summer Seasonal | Winter Seasonal |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Visitor Services & General Upkeep | Snow/Ice Removal & Winterization |
| Typical Season | April – September | October – March |
| Environment | High Temperatures | Extreme Cold (-40 to 90F) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $33.25 to $38.85. Compensation is based on the specific skills and experience level of the applicant.
Benefits
Employees receive a uniform allowance and have the potential to live in government housing. You will gain invaluable experience in federal facility maintenance that can bolster your future career prospects.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
- Detail Your Trades: Clearly list your experience in masonry, electrical, and plumbing.
- Act Fast: The announcement is capped at 75 applicants. Submit your package as soon as possible.
Serving as a seasonal Maintenance Mechanic at Gateway NRA is more than just a job; it is a way to protect the integrity of our national park infrastructure. Apply today to start your journey with the National Park Service.
Why This Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal) Job Matters
Join the National Park Service this winter and play a critical role in preserving the beauty and safety of Gateway National Recreation Area.
Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking dedicated individuals to fill seasonal Maintenance Mechanic positions at the Gateway National Recreation Area. Unlike summer roles, these winter-focused positions are vital for ensuring the park remains operational through the colder months. You will be responsible for essential facility upkeep, including snow removal, winterizing buildings, and performing routine corrective repairs on grounds and structures. This is a unique opportunity to support the stewardship of national park lands while gaining valuable federal maintenance experience.
Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid state driver's license.
- Ability to perform heavy manual labor and lift up to 50 pounds.
- Must be at least 16 or 18 years old depending on education status.
- Subject to a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Willingness to wear a uniform and adhere to NPS standards.
- Must register with the Selective Service (if applicable).
- Availability to work variable shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal)
- Demonstrated proficiency in masonry, electrical, plumbing, and painting trades.
- Experience using a variety of hand and power tools for corrective maintenance.
- Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
- Prior experience in winterizing facilities or operating heavy snow removal equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Potential for government housing.
- ✓Valuable federal experience within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Non-competitive rehire eligibility opportunities (subject to hour limitations).
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Mechanic (Seasonal) Job
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your trades experience (limit to two pages).
- Review the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including veterans' preference forms if applicable.
- Submit your application package through the USAJobs portal.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding your status.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use concrete examples of your work in masonry, plumbing, and electrical trades in your resume.
- Follow formatting rules: Resumes must be two pages or less with a minimum 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Don't rely on titles: Describe your duties clearly, as reviewers will not assume experience based on job titles alone.
- Submit early: This position closes once 75 applications are received or by the deadline, whichever occurs first.
- Check your documents: Ensure no photos of yourself are included on badges or licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
This is a seasonal, mixed-schedule role expected to run from October to March, though dates can fluctuate based on weather and project needs.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, for Wage Grade (WG) positions, there is no substitution of education for the required trade experience.
Is housing provided?
Government housing may be available, but it is not guaranteed.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural resources of the United States. The Gateway National Recreation Area serves as a vital coastal park, and winter operations require a specialized team to manage snow removal, building winterization, and corrective maintenance of park facilities.