Launch Your Career: General Equipment Mechanic with the National Park Service

Are you a skilled mechanic looking for work that matters? The National Park Service (NPS) at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is currently seeking a General Equipment Mechanic to ensure our essential machinery and marine vessels remain mission-ready. This is an incredible opportunity to leverage your technical expertise while contributing to the preservation of America’s cultural and natural heritage.

Job Responsibilities

As a General Equipment Mechanic, you will be the backbone of our operational fleet. Your daily tasks will be diverse, requiring versatility and high mechanical aptitude. Key responsibilities include:

Fleet Maintenance: Overhauling and repairing heavy land-based equipment, such as dump trucks, motor graders, and end loaders.
Marine Mechanics: Servicing and repairing boat engines ranging from 4 to 200 horsepower, including outdrives and steering cables.
Electrical Diagnostics: Repairing DC electrical systems, alternators, and wiring harnesses.
Small Engine Repair: Keeping diesel and gasoline-powered equipment, including chainsaws and generators, in safe working order.
Shop Support: Assisting with general building maintenance and facility safety, including plumbing and structural adjustments.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet several federal criteria, including:

Residency: You must reside within 75 miles of either the Chalmette or Marrero duty stations.
Documentation: You must submit a maximum two-page resume and valid proof of residency.
Legal Standing: U.S. citizenship, successful background investigation, and E-Verify compliance.
Driving: You must maintain a valid state driver's license.

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is structured on an hourly basis, reflecting the specialized skills required for the role.

Position Level	Hourly Wage Range
General Equipment Mechanic	$31.26 - $36.48

Benefits

Employees of the National Park Service receive competitive federal benefits, including:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Uniform allowances to ensure you are equipped for the environment.
Participation in federal retirement planning.
The pride of maintaining equipment that sustains historical and natural sites.

Application Tips

Watch the Length: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The automated screening system will reject longer files.
Be Specific: In your resume, highlight your specific experience with the tools and engines mentioned in the job post.
Proof of Residency: Ensure your proof of address is current. A utility bill or lease agreement is generally preferred.
Apply Early: Do not wait until the final hours on September 9, 2026, to avoid potential technical issues.

This role is a unique chance to combine your mechanical talents with a mission of national importance. If you possess the drive and the skill set, we encourage you to submit your application today to become a part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park team.

Why This Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic Job Matters

Launch your career with the National Park Service in the heart of Louisiana’s historic landscape, where your mechanical skills directly support the preservation of our nation's treasures.

Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic Job Overview

The National Park Service is seeking a skilled General Equipment Mechanic to join the Facilities Division at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. This role is essential for maintaining the diverse fleet of vehicles and equipment required to protect our cultural and natural resources. You will work across locations in Chalmette and Marrero, ensuring that everything from heavy-duty construction machinery to marine vessels remains in peak operating condition. This is a hands-on position ideal for a technician who takes pride in equipment reliability and mechanical integrity.

Requirements for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must reside within 75 miles of the designated duty station (Chalmette or Marrero, LA).
Must undergo a background investigation and receive favorable adjudication.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period is mandatory.
Must be willing to obtain and use a government-issued charge card for official travel and purchasing.

Preferred Qualifications for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic

Demonstrated ability to perform mechanical repairs without requiring constant supervision.
Experience with both gasoline and diesel engines for land-based vehicles and marine equipment.
Proficiency in diagnosing electrical system issues, including DC systems.
Skill in utilizing precision tools and technical manuals for engine rebuilding and systems maintenance.
Capacity to follow complex verbal and written work orders effectively.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal hourly wages
✓Uniform allowance provided
✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of the Interior
✓Contribution to the preservation of national historical sites
✓Access to federal employee healthcare and insurance programs

💡 How to Apply Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) General Equipment Mechanic Job

Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two single-sided pages, using at least 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
Gather proof of your residence within the 75-mile commuting area (e.g., utility bill, lease, or deed).
Select the 'Apply' button to begin the online questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation, including your resume and residency proof, ensuring no Adobe portfolio files are used.
Submit your application before the closing date of September 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must not exceed two pages; HR will not review anything beyond that limit.
Ensure your resume explicitly details your hands-on experience with the specific equipment mentioned in the job description.
Do not include photographs or images of yourself in your application documents.
Double-check that your proof of residency is a valid document like a utility bill or lease agreement.
Be precise in your questionnaire answers, as these are used to determine your initial eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Local Hiring Authority' for this position?

This authority allows the National Park Service to hire individuals who reside in the local commuting area of the park, bypassing standard competitive rating and ranking processes.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. Any resume exceeding two single-sided pages will not be considered or reviewed by the staffing office.

What kind of equipment will I be maintaining?

You will service a wide variety of equipment, including end loaders, motor graders, dump trucks, boats (21-32 feet), outboard engines (4-200 HP), and various gasoline and diesel power tools.

Job from National Park Service

The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to protecting the nation's natural resources and historical landmarks. Working for the NPS means more than just a job; it means joining a community committed to education, conservation, and the inspiration of future generations. Our facilities team in Louisiana plays a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that allows the public to access and enjoy our sites.