Sign Painter Helper (Seasonal)

National Park Service • Vinton, VA

19d • Onsite

About The Position

This seasonal entry-level position assists the maintenance mechanic leader (sign maker) and sign painter while developing skills and knowledge in sign making, including sign maintenance and manufacturing. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period for the Seasonal Staffing Office-Southeast Region is April through November, though timing may vary due to weather, project needs, or funding. The anticipated entry-on-duty period is March–April 2027.

The work involves maintaining and manufacturing signs, transporting signs and materials, and maintaining the shop, tools, and equipment. The position requires physical work in mountainous terrain at elevations from 1,000 to 4,000 feet, often in moderate to severe weather. The employee may be exposed to dust, grease, equipment noise and vibration, icy or slippery surfaces, and summer temperatures above 100 degrees. Required personal protective equipment and a uniform meeting National Park Service standards must be worn and maintained.

This is a seasonal temporary appointment. Depending on the park and program, it may be a temporary appointment not to exceed 1,560 hours rather than 1,039 hours. Employment may end at any time because of funding fluctuations, project needs, performance, or other considerations. Applicants must meet the stated age requirements and, when operating vehicles, hold a valid driver’s license. A uniform allowance will be provided; government housing may be available but is not guaranteed, and occupancy of government quarters may be required.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Appointment is subject to a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males must meet the Selective Service Registration Act requirement.
• Must be at least 18 years old to operate government vehicles; a valid driver’s license is required when vehicle operation is part of official duties.
• Must meet the stated minimum age and education or vocational training conditions for employment: at least 18 years old, or at least 16 and meeting one of the listed school, vocational training, or student employment conditions.
• Must be physically fit and demonstrate sufficient knowledge and ability in the job-related factors, including doing the work without more than normal supervision, interpreting instructions and specifications, using and maintaining tools and equipment, knowledge of materials, technical practices, dexterity and safety, and construction practices.
• Must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and average at least 2 points across all job elements to be considered qualified.
• Applicants must describe relevant experience and training in their application; the resume must support assessment questionnaire responses.
• Must participate in the Direct Deposit Electronic Funds Transfer Program.
• Must wear a uniform and comply with National Park Service uniform standards.
• May be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and/or shift work.
• May be required to complete training and operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
• May be required to complete training and obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
• Must meet all qualifications by the announcement closing date of October 26, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Perform simple and routine maintenance of signposts.
• Assist in applying reflective highway sign faces to aluminum material using a hydraulic press.
• Cut, route, and paint new wooden signs.
• Operate light-duty trucks and a forklift to pick up, load, and transport signs.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the shop, tools, and equipment.
• Wear and maintain the work uniform in accordance with National Park Service uniform standards.
• Operate a government or private motor vehicle as part of official duties when required.

Benefits

• A uniform allowance will be provided.
• Federal employees and their families have access to a range of federal benefits; specific eligibility depends on position type and other factors.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed