Become an Engineering Equipment Operator Leader at Joshua Tree National Park

Are you looking to take your heavy equipment operating career to one of the most beautiful environments in the United States? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently recruiting for an Engineering Equipment Operator Leader at Joshua Tree National Park. This role is essential to maintaining the infrastructure that allows millions of visitors to safely experience the park’s unique landscape.

Job Responsibilities

As a leader, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of field crews and the heavy machinery required to keep the park running. Key duties include:

Operating motor graders to clear debris, maintain road shoulders, and perform ditching.
Utilizing front-end loaders for snow removal, dirt movement, and truck loading.
Leading crews in asphalt repairs, sign installation, and road striping.
Managing roadside brushing to ensure clear lines of sight for visitors.
Responding to emergency conditions, including heavy monsoonal rain debris removal.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following federal requirements:

U.S. Citizenship.
A valid CDL Class A with tanker endorsement (must be submitted with your application).
Successful completion of a background check and drug testing.
Ability to perform strenuous physical work, including lifting 50 lbs.
Residency within the defined local commuting area.

Salary Overview

This position is compensated under the Federal Wage System:

Position Level	Hourly Rate
Engineering Equipment Operator Leader	$35.09 - $40.99

Benefits

Employees in this career-seasonal role enjoy access to comprehensive federal benefits, including medical insurance, retirement contributions, and federal holiday pay, balanced with a schedule that respects your off-season time.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page resume limit. Anything longer will be discarded.
Documentation: Ensure your proof of residency is a valid document such as a lease or utility bill; a standard SF-50 is not sufficient.
Screen Out Factor: Highlight your leadership and supervisory experience clearly. If this area is weak in your resume, you will not move forward.

If you have the technical skills, a valid Class A CDL, and the desire to support the National Park Service, this position offers a rewarding way to build your federal career. Apply before the deadline to be considered for this high-impact role.

Why This Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader Job Matters

Take the wheel at Joshua Tree National Park: Lead essential infrastructure projects in one of America's most iconic landscapes as an Engineering Equipment Operator Leader.

Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader Job Overview

The National Park Service is seeking a skilled Engineering Equipment Operator Leader to join the Facilities Division at Joshua Tree National Park. In this vital role, you will lead crews in critical road maintenance, snow removal, and heavy equipment operation, ensuring the park remains safe and accessible for millions of visitors. This career-seasonal position offers the unique opportunity to perform meaningful work in a world-renowned natural setting, supporting the preservation of our national heritage while enjoying the stability of a federal career.

Requirements for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader

U.S. Citizenship or National status
Valid driver's license maintained throughout employment
Possession of a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A with tanker endorsement
Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks and heavy lifting up to 50 lbs
Must reside within the defined local commuting area (within 75 miles/90 minutes of the park)
Successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol testing
Compliance with federal uniform standards
Must be 16 years of age or older with appropriate school/vocational certification if under 18

Preferred Qualifications for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader

Proven experience in operating motor graders, front-end loaders, and other heavy construction equipment
Demonstrated ability to lead, supervise, and mentor work crews in field environments
Experience with asphalt repair, road striping, and sign installation
Proficiency in emergency response operations, including debris removal and snow clearing

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health and life insurance options
✓Uniform allowance provided
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
✓Career-seasonal status offering stable, recurring employment
✓Contribution to the federal retirement system

💡 How to Apply Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Field Unit Local Hiring Authority (Ful) Engineering Equipment Operator Leader Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages with a minimum 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins
Gather proof of residency documents (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, deed)
Obtain a copy of your CDL Class A with tanker endorsement
Submit your application package online before the closing date
Monitor your status via your USAJOBS account

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details your leadership experience, as this is a screen-out factor.
Do not include personal photographs in your application materials.
Verify your residence is within the 75-mile/90-minute commuting radius for the San Bernardino/Riverside County area.
Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
Clearly label all uploaded documents to ensure the HR office can identify your proof of residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a career-seasonal appointment mean?

It is a permanent position that includes full federal benefits but is not year-round. This role operates for approximately 25 pay periods per year, with a scheduled two-week non-pay period.

Is residency documentation required?

Yes. You must provide proof that you reside within the local commuting area of Joshua Tree National Park at the time of application.

What is the commuting area requirement?

You must live within 75 miles or 90 minutes of the duty station in the San Bernardino/Riverside area.

Is this a year-round position?

It is a career-seasonal role, meaning it is permanent but typically involves a two-week non-pay period during the year.

Job from National Park Service

The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service manage the nation's most precious natural and cultural resources. Working for the NPS is more than just a job; it is a commitment to preserving the natural beauty and historical integrity of the American landscape for future generations.