Become a Preservation Helper with the National Park Service
Are you passionate about history and skilled in the trades? The National Park Service (NPS) is offering a unique opportunity to join the team at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA. As a Preservation Helper, you will play a hands-on role in protecting and restoring the physical landmarks that define American history.
Job Responsibilities
The Preservation Helper serves as a supporting hand to journey-level tradespeople. Your daily tasks will include:
- Assisting with the restoration and stabilization of historic structures.
- Performing masonry, carpentry, and painting tasks using both modern and traditional techniques.
- Adhering to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
- Utilizing tools safely, including saws, drills, and measurement equipment.
- Supporting administrative tasks related to project management.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Physical Fitness: Capability to lift 50+ pounds and work on ladders or scaffolds.
- Documentation: Must submit a clear, two-page maximum resume.
- Compliance: Must pass background checks and a one-year probationary period.
Comparison of Trade Requirements
| Skill Set | Responsibility | Preferred Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Masonry | Repairing walls, chimneys, and mortar | Historic mortar mixing |
| Carpentry | Restoring wood frames, trim, and doors | Traditional joinery techniques |
| Finishing | Painting and specialized stains | Surface preparation |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $26.18 to $30.52 per hour. First-time federal hires typically start at the step 1 rate.
Benefits
Employees of the National Park Service enjoy a variety of benefits, including:
- Hands-on professional development.
- Uniform allowance.
- Access to federal career networks and future advancement opportunities.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection:
- Tailor your resume to show exactly how you meet the required job factors.
- Do not include photographs in your application package.
- Verify your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Use your USAJOBS account to track status updates regularly.
Working as a Preservation Helper at Independence National Historical Park is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of our nation's legacy. If you have the trade skills and a passion for history, apply today.
Why This Preservation Helper Job Matters
Help preserve American history in Philadelphia! The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Preservation Helper to support the restoration and maintenance of our nation’s most iconic historic structures.
Preservation Helper Job Overview
The National Park Service at Independence National Historical Park is hiring a Preservation Helper to support the critical mission of preserving cultural resources. In this role, you will work alongside journey-level preservationists to perform routine trade tasks, maintenance, and structural restoration. This position is vital to ensuring that monuments, historic buildings, and landscapes remain in top condition for future generations. This is a term appointment expected to last at least 13 months, with the potential for extension up to four years.
Requirements for Preservation Helper
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Ability to perform physical work including lifting up to 50 lbs and working at heights.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability check.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (if applicable).
- Must maintain compliance with uniform standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Preservation Helper
- Demonstrated experience in at least two of the following: plastering, roofing, painting, masonry, or carpentry.
- Proficiency in using hand and power tools such as saws, drills, chisels, and measurement instruments.
- Knowledge of historic preservation techniques and materials.
- Experience reading and interpreting blueprints or technical instructions.
- Demonstrated capability to perform tasks with minimal supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wage
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Access to federal training and professional development
- ✓Exposure to unique historic preservation techniques
- ✓Eligibility for federal employee retirement and health benefits (subject to appointment type)
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of the Interior
💡 How to Apply Preservation Helper Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Preservation Helper Job
- Review the full USAJOBS announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or fewer, in 10-point font or larger.
- Complete the online application questionnaire at the provided portal.
- Attach all required documentation, including veterans' preference proof if applicable.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly detail experience related to the job factors; do not rely on job titles alone.
- Ensure your resume supports every claim made in the assessment questionnaire to avoid being marked ineligible.
- Proofread your application to ensure no personal photographs are included.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
- Focus your resume on hands-on preservation experience, specifically masonry, carpentry, or exterior restoration work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of this position?
This is a term position for an initial appointment of at least 13 months, which may be extended up to four years.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions like this, education cannot be substituted for the required trade experience.
What are the physical demands of this job?
The role requires extensive physical labor, including standing, bending, climbing, crawling, working on ladders or scaffolds, and lifting items weighing 50 pounds or more.
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a term position with an initial appointment of 13 months, extendable up to 4 years.
Can I get help with the application process?
You can visit the USAJOBS help center for guidance on writing a federal resume and understanding documentation requirements.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, is tasked with the monumental responsibility of managing America’s cultural and natural heritage. At Independence National Historical Park, the preservation team works tirelessly to maintain iconic structures, ensuring they remain standing for future generations to explore and learn from.