Build Your Future: Join the National Park Service as a Seasonal Carpenter
Are you a skilled carpenter looking for a role that offers more than just another construction project? The National Park Service (NPS) is offering a unique career path for seasonal Carpenters within the Pacific West Region. This is your chance to trade the typical job site for the majestic scenery of Yosemite, Mount Rainier, and Lake Roosevelt.
Job Responsibilities
As a Carpenter for the NPS, your work will be diverse and challenging. You will be responsible for:
- Performing structural repairs and alterations on park buildings.
- Fabricating duplicate replacements for historic wood members.
- Installing stairs, trusses, doors, and trim.
- Inspecting outside contract work to ensure quality standards.
- Working with specialized materials for stabilization and restoration.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements, including:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Age | 18+ (or 16+ with specific qualifications) |
| Physical | Ability to lift 40-80 lbs depending on location |
| Licenses | Valid State Driver’s License required |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive wage ranging from $26.95 to $31.45 per hour. Please note that this pay range is based on federal wage scales and does not guarantee a specific step increase.
Benefits
Working for the NPS provides unique advantages, including a provided uniform allowance and the chance to live in some of the most sought-after locations in the United States. While relocation expenses are not paid by the agency, the experience gained is a significant career booster.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: Keep your resume strictly to two pages. Overly long resumes will not be considered.
- Detailed Descriptions: Don't just list titles. Describe the actual carpentry tasks you have performed.
- Safety First: Highlight your familiarity with safety gear and hazards associated with power equipment.
If you have the skills and the desire to protect America's treasures, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the perfect blend of manual labor, technical skill, and adventure. Ensure your application is submitted by October 26, 2026, to be considered for this exciting opportunity.
Why This Carpenter (Seasonal) Job Matters
Launch your career in the great outdoors with the National Park Service—where your craftsmanship helps preserve our nation’s most iconic landscapes.
Carpenter (Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking skilled, dedicated individuals to join our team as seasonal Carpenters. You will play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and historical beauty of facilities within some of the most stunning national parks in the country. From repairing historic structures to installing custom woodwork, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation of America's natural and cultural heritage while gaining invaluable experience in a dynamic, high-stakes environment.
Requirements for Carpenter (Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Ability to perform the work of a carpenter without more than normal supervision (Screen-out factor).
- Must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with specific educational/vocational requirements).
- Must possess a valid State-issued driver's license.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds (60-80 pounds for specific Yosemite locations).
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Must be available for weekend, holiday, and shift work as required.
- Must comply with official National Park Service uniform standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Carpenter (Seasonal)
- Demonstrated experience in structural repair, restoration, and fabrication.
- Proficiency in reading blueprints and technical specifications.
- Expertise in using and maintaining standard woodworking power tools and equipment.
- Proven knowledge of construction materials and precise measurement techniques.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wage
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Potential for government housing at select locations
- ✓Unique experience working in national parks
- ✓Opportunity for non-competitive rehire eligibility under specific conditions
💡 How to Apply Carpenter (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Carpenter (Seasonal) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, using at least 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the official application portal.
- Submit all required documentation, including veterans' preference forms or CTAP/ICTAP proof if applicable.
- Confirm submission prior to the October 26, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the system strictly enforces the two-page limit.
- Focus your resume on your hands-on experience and specific trade skills rather than just listing job titles.
- Ensure your responses in the assessment questionnaire align perfectly with your resume content.
- Double-check that you have removed any photographs or Adobe portfolio-style documents before uploading.
- Submit early to avoid potential system delays as the deadline approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical duration of the seasonal appointment?
These positions are temporary and not to exceed 1,039 hours per service year, generally spanning April through October.
Is housing provided?
Housing may be available at all duty locations, though availability varies. Please consult the specific park contact listed for more information.
Can I apply for multiple locations?
The announcement covers multiple sites; however, ensure you specify your interest and availability as requested in the application process.
What is the timeline for hiring?
*A: Selected candidates can expect to hear back between December 2026 and January 2027.*
Is this a permanent position?
*A: No, this is a seasonal appointment limited to 1,039 hours per year.*
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is dedicated to the preservation of our nation's natural and cultural resources. Working with the NPS means contributing to a legacy that ensures future generations can enjoy these historic landscapes and structures.