Build Your Career with the National Park Service at Cape Lookout
Are you looking for a role that gets you out of the office and into the heart of America's natural beauty? The National Park Service (NPS) is hiring for a Maintenance Worker at Cape Lookout National Seashore in North Carolina. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to preserve one of the country's most iconic coastal landscapes.
Job Responsibilities
The Maintenance Worker position involves a mix of specialized trades and logistical tasks. Key responsibilities include:
- Carpentry Repairs: Building, installing, and repairing doors, shelves, and structural elements using professional power tools.
- Plumbing Maintenance: Performing routine repairs, clearing drains, and managing liquid petroleum gas systems.
- Roofing Tasks: Performing patches and repairs on park structures.
- Field Logistics: Navigating small vessels to transport personnel and materials to remote islands.
- Site Stewardship: Maintaining campgrounds and trails to ensure visitor safety and resource protection.
| Feature | Requirement / Context |
|---|---|
| Position Type | Temporary (not-to-exceed 1 year) |
| Salary Range | $22.74 - $26.50/hr |
| Location | Harkers Island, NC |
| Physicality | High; requires bending, lifting 40+ lbs |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:
- Work Experience: Proficiency in the work without intensive supervision.
- Documentation: A clean, valid driver's license and a complete driving history record.
- Flexibility: Availability to work irregular hours, including holidays, weekends, and on-call shifts.
- Physical Stamina: The ability to work in harsh, varying climates ranging from 15 to 100 degrees.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for this position ranges from $22.74 to $26.50 per hour. While this is a temporary appointment, staff members are provided with uniform allowances and have the unique privilege of working in a world-class national seashore environment.
Application Tips
Applying for federal positions requires strict adherence to guidelines. Ensure your resume is under two pages and clearly documents your trade experience. Do not include photos in your application, as these are automatically excluded by the hiring system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a special license for the boat navigation? A: The role requires the ability to navigate small vessels, which will be assessed during the selection process.
Q: What are the living conditions like? A: The area of Harkers Island offers standard community services, but the worksites on the barrier islands are remote with no utilities or medical access.
If you possess strong trade skills and a desire to contribute to the mission of the National Park Service, this role at Cape Lookout offers an unparalleled experience. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Maintenance Worker (Temporary) Job Matters
Embark on a unique adventure with the National Park Service! Join our team at Cape Lookout National Seashore and protect the pristine beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks while gaining invaluable hands-on trade experience.
Maintenance Worker (Temporary) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking motivated individuals to serve as Maintenance Workers (Temporary) at the stunning Cape Lookout National Seashore in Harkers Island, NC. This role is essential for preserving the historic integrity and functionality of our park facilities. You will perform a variety of carpentry and plumbing tasks, maintain trails and campgrounds, and navigate small vessels across open water to reach remote barrier island sites. This position offers a rare opportunity to live and work in one of the most beautiful coastal environments in the United States while contributing to the preservation of our national heritage.
Requirements for Maintenance Worker (Temporary)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess a valid driver's license and provide a driving record.
- Ability to perform maintenance duties without more than normal supervision.
- Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with specific education criteria).
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Must be willing to work in remote, harsh conditions, including extreme weather.
- Must be capable of navigating small vessels in potentially challenging conditions.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Worker (Temporary)
- Proficiency with hand and power tools (saws, drills, routers, etc.).
- Experience in basic carpentry and structural repairs.
- Practical knowledge of plumbing maintenance and minor building upkeep.
- Previous experience working in remote, off-the-grid, or field environments.
- Demonstrated ability to follow safety protocols and complex technical instructions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Opportunities for professional training
- ✓Direct deposit electronic funds transfer
- ✓Unique access to protected national lands
- ✓Hands-on experience with a federal agency
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Worker (Temporary) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Worker (Temporary) Job
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two single-sided pages.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including driving records and military/veteran proof if applicable.
- Submit your application package via the USAJobs portal by the deadline.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJobs account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any pages beyond the two-page limit will not be reviewed.
- Use your resume to highlight specific, hands-on experience that directly aligns with the job duties.
- Ensure your document formatting (10-point font, 0.5-inch margins) meets the strict requirements.
- Check your application status regularly through the portal to ensure all documents were successfully linked.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the close date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary location for this job?
The position is based in Harkers Island, North Carolina, but involves frequent travel to remote islands within the Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Are there medical services available on-site?
No. The remote barrier islands where you will be working do not have medical services or access to food/supplies.
How long does this appointment last?
This is a temporary position not-to-exceed one year, with a potential extension up to two years based on agency needs.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) manages over 400 units, preserving the natural and cultural legacy of the United States. Cape Lookout National Seashore spans 56 miles of the Southern Outer Banks, featuring historic villages, wild horses, and untouched barrier islands. As a member of the maintenance team, you are at the frontline of keeping these sites accessible and preserved for future generations.