Laborer (Trails) (Seasonal)

National Park Service • Cherokee, NC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Laborer performs very heavy physical labor in the maintenance and construction of a park unit’s trail system. Work includes trail maintenance and construction tasks assigned by the trails maintenance work leader or designee. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period for the Seasonal Staffing Office–Southeast Region is March through November, with timing subject to weather, project needs, and funding. The anticipated entry-on-duty period is March through May 2027. Some positions may be covered by a union.

This is seasonal work that may involve outdoor work in all kinds of weather, walking several miles per day to and from trail work sites, and extended stays in remote backcountry camps. The work requires lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy materials, following safety procedures, and using standard safety equipment. Employment may end at any time due to funding, project needs, performance, or other considerations.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Must meet applicable Selective Service registration requirements.
• Must meet the stated minimum age and education or vocational-training conditions for employment.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Must be physically fit and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities for the job-related factors: ability to do the work without more than normal supervision; ability to interpret instructions and specifications; ability to use and maintain tools and equipment; work practices; and dexterity and safety.
• Must score at least 2 points on the screen-out element and an average of at least 2 points across all job elements.
• Must describe relevant experience and training in the application and resume; the resume must support assessment questionnaire responses.
• A valid driver's license is required if operating a government or private motor vehicle is part of official duties.
• Must be at least 18 to operate government vehicles.
• Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
• Must undergo a background investigation and receive favorable adjudication.
• May be required to complete training, operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
• May be required to wear a uniform and comply with National Park Service uniform standards.
• Must be able to work outdoors in varied weather and tolerate potential exposure to poisonous plants, insects, and minor injuries, and be able to live cooperatively in remote camps when required.

Responsibilities

• Perform trail maintenance and construction as assigned by the trails maintenance work leader or designee.
• Clear brush and fallen logs from trail corridors.
• Clean, repair, and construct log or rock drains; install log or rock retainer bars and steps; and inspect or construct foot and stock bridges using native materials.
• Dig ditches and trenches with picks and shovels in hard, compact soil and grade or slope the work area.
• Break up pavement, soil, or concrete; mix and pour concrete, asphalt, and hot or cold mix; and fill and level holes in damaged roads.
• Cut heavy trees with an ax or chainsaw and stack heavy logs, lumber, and sacks of cement.
• Follow proper safety procedures and use standard safety equipment.
• Live cooperatively in camp, practice minimum-impact camping and proper food storage, and maintain personal and camp hygiene.

Benefits

• A uniform allowance will be provided.
• Federal employees and their families may have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific benefit eligibility depends on position type.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed