Become a Preservationist at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Have you ever wondered what it takes to keep a 17th-century fortress standing? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently seeking a talented and dedicated Preservationist to join the team at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in Saint Augustine, Florida. This is more than just a job; it is a chance to play a hands-on role in protecting one of America’s most significant cultural sites.
Job Responsibilities
As a Preservationist, you will perform journey-level trade work to restore and maintain historic structures. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Masonry: Executing complex stone and brick repairs, including repointing and patching to match historic finishes.
- Woodworking: Crafting and reproducing historic doors, windows, and trim using precise joinery techniques.
- Roofing and Carpentry: Maintaining historic roofing systems and structural wood components.
- Documentation: Interpreting blueprints, drawings, and historic documentation to plan your work independently.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate the following:
- Experience: Ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision.
- Licensing: A current, valid state-issued driver's license.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to stand for long periods, work at heights, and lift up to 80 lbs.
- Compliance: US Citizenship and passing a background check.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | WG-10 |
| Location | St. Augustine, FL |
| Pay Range | $28.45 - $33.19 / hour |
| Travel | Occasional Travel Required |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this role is competitive, ranging from $28.45 to $33.19 per hour. In addition to wages, employees receive a uniform allowance and the opportunity to work in a world-class environment with a supportive team.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and uses at least 10-point font.
- Be Specific: Describe your trade skills in detail. Do not rely on past job titles to convey your expertise.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hour on September 9, 2026, to submit your application package.
If you have the technical skills and the passion for preservation, we encourage you to apply. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the history of the United States while honing your craft at an iconic site.
Why This Preservationist Job Matters
Turn your craftsmanship into a legacy: Join the National Park Service and protect the living history of the Castillo de San Marcos.
Preservationist Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a skilled Preservationist to join our team at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in Saint Augustine, Florida. In this role, you will serve as a vital guardian of American heritage, performing high-level masonry, woodworking, and structural repairs to ensure historic buildings stand the test of time. This position is perfect for a dedicated tradesperson who appreciates the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern preservation standards.
Requirements for Preservationist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver's license.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 80 pounds.
- Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
- Successful completion of a background investigation and E-Verify check.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-59.
- Ability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and on-call shifts.
Preferred Qualifications for Preservationist
- Demonstrated experience in historic masonry techniques including brick, stone, and repointing.
- Advanced proficiency in woodworking, joinery, and architectural restoration.
- Proven capability to interpret blueprints and technical specifications independently.
- Experience with historic roofing and structural finishing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Career growth within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a unique historic setting.
- ✓Access to federal employment benefits and programs.
💡 How to Apply Preservationist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Preservationist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages (10-point font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Complete the online application and required questionnaires.
- Submit all necessary supporting documents, such as proof of veterans preference or CTAP/ICTAP eligibility, if applicable.
- Ensure the application is submitted by the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your two-page resume to highlight specific historic preservation skills rather than relying on job titles alone.
- Clearly document your experience in the screen-out factors to ensure you meet the minimum threshold.
- Double-check that your driver's license status is accurately reflected in your materials.
- Preview the assessment questionnaire before starting to ensure you have all needed information ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific educational requirement for this position?
No, there is no substitution of education for experience. This is a Federal Wage System position, and selection is based on demonstrated skill and work experience.
What is the physical nature of the work?
The role is physically demanding. It requires frequent standing, climbing, lifting up to 80 pounds, and working from heights like ladders or rooftops in various weather conditions.
How long should my resume be?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Any submission longer than two pages will not be accepted or reviewed.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: Relocation or recruitment incentives may be offered on a case-by-case basis, but they are not guaranteed.*
Will I have to work weekends?
*A: Yes, this position requires availability for weekends, holidays, and shift work as needed.*
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, a bureau of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of our country. At the Castillo de San Marcos, the mission is to maintain the integrity of the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Working here means contributing to a legacy that will be enjoyed by millions of visitors for generations to come.