Become a Preservation Helper with the National Park Service
Are you looking to turn your trade skills into a career that makes history? The National Park Service (NPS) at Independence National Historical Park is hiring a Preservation Helper to support the vital work of maintaining our nation's most precious cultural resources.
Job Responsibilities
As a Preservation Helper, your daily tasks will focus on supporting journey-level staff in various preservation projects. Key responsibilities include:
- Trade Support: Assisting with plastering, roofing, painting, masonry, and carpentry.
- Historic Integrity: Adhering to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
- Site Maintenance: Working on monuments, memorials, statues, and timber structures.
- Tool Maintenance: Properly using and storing traditional and modern hand and power tools.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Residency: Must live within 50 miles/60 minutes of the Philadelphia duty station.
- Documentation: Provide proof of residency.
- Experience: Ability to demonstrate proficiency in at least two trade areas.
- Standards: Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a background check.
Comparison of Potential Trade Focus Areas
| Skill | Typical Tasks |
|---|---|
| Masonry | Repointing walls, repairing chimneys, mixing mortar |
| Carpentry | Restoring trim, windows, siding, and wood frames |
| Painting | Surface preparation and application of specialized historic finishes |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage range of $26.18 to $30.52. Employees receive a uniform allowance and the satisfaction of preserving American landmarks while working in a unique, historic professional environment.
Application Tips
- Watch Your Length: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Document Everything: Include clear, official proof of your residence.
- Detail Your Work: Explain your hands-on experience with specific tools and techniques; do not rely on your job title to do the talking.
This role is an excellent opportunity for skilled individuals to contribute to the mission of the NPS. If you have the trade background and meet the local residency requirements, apply before the September 11, 2026, deadline.
Why This Ful - Preservation Helper Job Matters
Help preserve American history! The National Park Service is seeking hands-on professionals to assist in the restoration and maintenance of iconic structures at Independence National Historical Park.
Ful - Preservation Helper Job Overview
As a Preservation Helper at Independence National Historical Park, you will play a vital role in protecting and maintaining the historic structures that define our nation's heritage. Working under the guidance of journey-level preservationists, you will gain hands-on experience in trade tasks ranging from masonry and carpentry to surface preparation and roofing. This is a unique opportunity for local residents in the Philadelphia area to contribute directly to the preservation of cultural landmarks while developing professional trade skills.
Requirements for Ful - Preservation Helper
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Reside within 50 miles or a 60-minute commute of the duty station in Philadelphia.
- Possess a valid driver's license.
- Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting up to 50 pounds, climbing ladders, and working in various weather conditions.
- Must pass a background investigation and employment verification (E-Verify).
- Registration with Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959).
- Willingness to wear a uniform and adhere to agency standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Ful - Preservation Helper
- Experience in historic structure maintenance or restoration.
- Proficiency in at least two of the following: plastering, roofing, painting, masonry, or carpentry.
- Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications, and technical instructions.
- Practical knowledge of hand and power tools (e.g., chisels, saws, drills, calipers).
- Experience working on masonry repairs, timber structures, or historic window/door restoration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Professional development and mentorship from journey-level preservationists.
- ✓Contribution to national heritage preservation.
- ✓Participation in Federal employment benefits programs (dependent on eligibility).
- ✓Structured, steady work environment in a historic setting.
💡 How to Apply Ful - Preservation Helper Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Ful - Preservation Helper Job
- Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two single-sided pages or less.
- Gather proof of residence within the required 50-mile/60-minute commuting area.
- Complete the online application and upload required documentation (including resume and proof of residency).
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the September 11, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Use clear descriptions of your experience with specific tools and trades mentioned in the job post.
- Ensure your proof of residency is a clear, valid document like a lease, utility bill, or deed.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in the requested trades, as reviewers will not assume skills based on job titles alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the geographic requirement for this role?
Applicants must reside within a 50-mile radius or a 60-minute commute of the Philadelphia duty station at the time of application.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Any resume exceeding two single-sided pages will not be reviewed for this position.
Is this a permanent federal position?
This is a term appointment expected to last at least 13 months, with the potential for extension up to four years.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are tasked with protecting the natural and cultural legacy of the United States. Working at Independence National Historical Park puts you at the center of American history, where you will help ensure that historic buildings and monuments remain standing for generations to come.