Maintenance Mechanic Job in Saint Louis, MO

Vacancy No. MW-1544-JEFF-25-12750574-ST Department National Park Service
Salary $33.53 to $39.13 Grade 10 to 10
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 6/16/2025 Close Date 6/24/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Saint Louis, MO


Summary

Provides preventive, routine and emergency maintenance for the Tram systems located in each leg of the Gateway Arch National Park. You will also be responsible for a total of 7 elevators, 5 hydraulic, 2 traction and two escalators.

This position is concurrently open to all U.S. citizens under Announcement Number MW-1544-JEFF-25-12750354-DE.

Duties

This permanent full-time position is located at Gateway Arch National Park in the Maintenance Division.

Duties include and are not limited to:

  • Performing Tram inspections and maintenance from a moving (cow catcher) maintenance cart which is located outside the capsules to heights up to 630 feet. Diagnose and repair AC and DC motors, troubleshoot AC and DC control circuits, Variable Frequency Drives (VFD), 125 horsepower hoist motor, and voltages from 120-volt single phase to 480-volts three phase. Inspect, repair, or replace starters, contactors, auxiliary control circuit, magnetic and proximity switches, and other switching devices.
  • Make sensitive adjustments to capsule doors, braking systems and Tram Leveling controllers (TLC), which control capsule leveling outputs.
  • Paint Tram capsules and other associated equipment. Lubricate and keep clean all pertinent parts of the Tram system. Daily use Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems to monitor, troubleshoot and operate the respective Tram system. Replace bearings, sheaves, Tram, and counterweight wheels when needed. Replace and shorten hoisting, governor, and compensating cables. Many repairs will be accomplished through extensive rigging with chain hoists, slings and straps while wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to include a harness, lanyards, steel toe boots, gloves, eye protection and possible hard hat.
  • Work is also performed in very restrictive areas while wearing a harness using the maintenance cart or the interior structural beams for support. Working heights can be as high as 630 feet above ground. Mechanic responds immediately to emergency calls when there is a breakdown in electrical/mechanical equipment on the Tram system. Troubleshoots Tram equipment to determine the cause of failure and quickly makes repairs to restore Tram service with little to no disruption. Assists emergency response crews when passenger evacuation is required.
Required to ride the tops of elevator cars and the front of the Tram (cow catcher) platform which changes from horizontal to 80 degrees from level. Must be able to carry a load of 75 pounds for a distance of 200 feet. Due to structural design of the interior of the Arch, must be able to crawl through narrow passages and climb structural members which consistently vary from horizontal to vertical.

The Gateway Arch National Park is located in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, on the banks of the Mississippi River. The park memorializes the city's role in westward expansion through the 630 foot Gateway Arch and underground Museum at the Gateway Arch. The Old Courthouse commemorates the site where the slave Dred Scott began his freedom suit, ultimately leading to the divisive U. S. Supreme Court decision that polarized the nation and became a leading cause of the Civil War. "Whether you're single or have a family, a sports fan or connoisseur of the arts, a fitness fanatic or a film aficionado, St. Louis has something for you." -St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association. A sports lover's paradise, fans are kept on the edge of their seats all year by a host of professional teams. With remarkable low cost of living for all the comforts and attractions it affords, St. Louis has a small-town feel, yet offers all the amenities you'd expect in a major metropolitan area, including top-notch health care and education resources. The City of St. Louis is relatively small, but the surrounding metropolitan area with nearly two million residents in both Missouri and Illinois offers many suburban and rural counties for easy commutes. Cultural institutions abound; in Forest Park alone, you'll find the Zoo, Art Museum, History Museum, Science Center, the Municipal Opera and more. There are over 100 parks and some 200 miles of cycling, running and walking trails. Visit our website for more information: Gateway Arch National Park (U.S. National Park Service). Housing is not available.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
  • Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males
  • You will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
  • Driver's License: You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
  • Uniform: You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
  • Probationary Period: If you are a new employee or supervisor in the Federal government, you will be required to complete a one-year probationary period.
  • Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, you must meet the selective placement factor, screen out AND have sufficient knowledge and ability in the job-related factors.

Selective Placement Factor. Due to the nature of the position, you must be able to work in tight spaces and from high, narrow surfaces.
  • You must certify that you do NOT have acrophobia (fear of heights) OR claustrophobia (fear of enclosure) as you will be performing duties from elevations, both stationary and mobile, to heights up to 630 Ft.
SCREEN OUT - QUALIFICATIONS: Perform intermediate level Maintenance Mechanic duties associated with trades appropriate to this position without more than normal supervision. Common tasks include diagnosis and repair of electrical control panels and equipment for the motor generators, transporter drive motors, capsule level motors, repair or replace motor starters, auxiliary control circuits; install conduit, panels, pull in wires and install fixtures and receptacles as a skilled helper. Use care in painting components and associated equipment. Lubricate and keep in a clean condition all pertinent parts of the equipment, perform mechanical, electrical, or electronic repairs. I am familiar with Programmable Logic Controls and have utilized them to operate and monitor both mechanical and electrical aspects to the installed system. Tasks assigned to me are inspected upon completion by my work leader or supervisor for conformance to requirements. I possess a good work ethic, dexterity and can perform strenuous work as required by the position. I can use a computer and maintain records.

To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:
  1. Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprints reading)
  2. Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
  3. Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation Repair, etc.
  4. Knowledge of materials
  5. Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic)
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.

A specific length of time and experience is not required to be considered qualified for this position. However, you must be able to demonstrate in your resume and supporting application materials that you possess sufficient knowledge, skill and ability to perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision. Note: You must demonstrate that you have experience of PERSONALLY performing this type of work. Supervising, managing, planning or contracting this type of work which does not demonstrate that you can also personally do the work will not be considered as qualifying. You must meet the 2-point level on the screen out factor/element and an average of level 2 on all factors/elements listed.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.

Additional information

A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected. The display of a salary range on this vacancy shall not be construed as granting an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.

This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate.

Travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid. All travel, transportation, and relocation expenses associated with reporting for duty in this position will be the sole responsibility of the selected employee.

Physical Demands: Must erect and climb ladders, scaffolds, and work off open structural steeling the interior of the arch legs. Must use a safety harness occasionally. In case of emergencies will have to climb 1,076 steps inside the Arch legs. Must be able to carry a load of 75 pounds for a distance of 200 feet. Due to structural design of the interior of the Arch, must be able to crawl through narrow passages and climb structural members which consistently vary from horizontal to vertical.

Working Conditions: Conditions vary from clean, well-lighted, air-conditioned areas of the shops to the dusty, poorly lighted areas of the interior legs of the Arch. Some locations of equipment, are under the floor of the Arch observation deck, are extremely hazardous due to the cramped and crowded conditions where the equipment is installed. Temperatures fluctuate from very hot in the summer to very cold in the winter. While working on pumps, consideration must be given to the possible electrical hazards, along with the wet and slippery conditions. Incumbent is required to ride the tops of elevator cars and the front of the TRAMS (cow catcher) platform which changes from horizontal to 80 degrees from level.

The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are suitable for telework only during an emergency or natural disaster.

Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) OR Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): CTAP/ICTAP provides placement assistance to permanent Federal employees who are surplus, displaced, or involuntarily separated. Applicants claiming CTAP/ICTAP eligibility must submit a copy of their most recent performance appraisal, proof of eligibility, and most current SF50 noting position, grade level, duty location with their application. To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, applicants must be qualified (i.e., meet the minimum qualification requirements, including any selective placement factors; education, and experience requirements), and be able to perform the duties of the position upon entry. For Information on CTAP and ICTAP visit: Career Transition (opm.gov)

Documentation for the Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act (LMWFA) eligibility, submission of ALL SF-50s and performance information for each period of temporary/term employment that qualifies for LMWFA. Performance documentation can be obtained by contacting the supervisors for the positions you served in during your 24 months. If they did not complete performance appraisals ask them to provide a statement of performance for each period of service. The statement must specify the dates for each employment period and your level of performance (dates should match the dates on the SF-50s).

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

A review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against your responses to the Assessment Questionnaire to determine if you are qualified for this job. If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses provided in the Assessment Questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation, you will be rated 'ineligible', 'not qualified', or your score will be adjusted accordingly. If a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications or experience, you can lose consideration for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully; errors or omissions can affect your rating.

Candidates who apply under Competitive Merit Promotion procedures will undergo a quality review to determine if they are highly qualified based on the content of their resume and their responses to the questionnaire. Best qualified candidates will be referred if all required supporting documentation has been provided.

Candidates who apply under Noncompetitive Merit Promotion procedures will undergo a quality review to determine if they are minimally qualified based on the content of their resume and their responses to the questionnaire. Qualified candidates will be referred if all required supporting documentation has been provided.

You will be evaluated on the following competencies and/or job elements:

  • Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT)
  • Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprints reading)
  • Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
  • Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation Repair, etc.
  • Knowledge of materials
  • Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic)


Please submit 1) a copy of your most recent performance appraisal/evaluation and 2) a list of any awards (e.g. superior performance awards, special act or achievement awards, quality step increase, etc.) you received in the last 5 years. Any performance appraisal/evaluation and award documentation you provide will be forwarded to the selecting official. The selecting official will review this documentation and give it due weight consideration during the overall selection process.

If you do not have your most recent performance appraisal/evaluation, please submit a statement as to why it is not available. Please indicate if any prior performance appraisals/evaluations were at an acceptable level.

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 06/24/2025.

  1. Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed. If military or civilian, please include your rank and/or grade.
  2. A complete Occupational Questionnaire
  3. Performance Appraisals and Awards:
    • All applicants must submit their most recent performance appraisal showing the official rating of record and signed by a supervisor or, if one is unavailable, a statement as to why it is not available (including if any prior performance appraisals/evaluations were at an acceptable level).
    • Failure to submit any of the above mentioned required documents will result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted.
  4. Merit Promotion Eligibility Documentation such as:
    • Federal employees must submit a copy of their latest SF-50 "Notification of Personnel Action" reflecting career or career-conditional status in the competitive service (Tenure 1 or 2), shows position title, series, grade and an additional SF-50 showing highest permanent grade ever held, if not reflected on your latest SF-50. Examples of acceptable SF-50s include: Promotion, Within Rate Increases (WRI/WGI), or Appointment SF-50s. Do not submit an Award SF-50 as it does not provide the needed information. Time in grade will be determined by reviewing your resume and required SF-50s.
    • Former federal employees separated from Federal Government over a year ago must submit their separation Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent) that reflects career or career-conditional status in the competitive service (Tenure 1 or 2) and shows position title, series, grade. Please do not submit an Award SF-50 as it does not provide the needed information. Your last Federal performance appraisal plan for your last position must reflect a rating of Fully Successful or equivalent.
    • Veterans Preference Documentation (e.g. DD-214, SF-15, VA Letter as appropriate)
    • Documentation for the Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act (LMWFA) eligibility, which includes ALL Appointment AND Termination SF-50s for EACH appointment as well as ALL performance evaluations, for each qualifying period of temporary employment claimed.
  5. Other Supporting Documents, if applicable, such as:
    • Veterans Preference Documentation:
      • If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
      • If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
      • If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
  6. Documentation for Interagency/Career Transition Assistance Plan consideration if you are a displaced Federal employee within the local commuting area. You must include: 1) Proof you are a displaced Federal employee, e.g., RIF Separation Notice, Notice of Proposed Removal, etc; 2) SF-50s (Notifications of Personnel Action) showing career/conditional tenure competitive status, promotion potential and duty location; and 3) your most recent performance appraisal. To exercise selection priority, displaced or surplus Federal employees must be rated well-qualified or above 85 on the rating criteria for this position.
  7. Noncompetitive or Special Hiring Authority. Applicants who are eligible to be considered based on a Noncompetitive or Special Hiring Authority (i.e. Schedule A, VRA, Peace Corps, AmeriCorp Vista, former PLC member, certain Military Spouses, 30% or More Disabled Veterans, Pathways Interns who have met the eligibility requirements for noncompetitive conversion, etc.) must submit appropriate documentation to verify your eligibility.
Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.

Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.

How to Apply

To apply for this position: You must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To receive consideration, the complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 06/24/2025. You must provide documentation to support your claim for each eligibility selected. Please review the required documentation listed in the eligibilities language to ensure you submit the appropriate information. Note: You will only be marked eligible for those eligibilities that you selected and provided the appropriate supporting documentation.

WE DO NOT ACCEPT HARD-COPY OR E-MAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.

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    • Upload any missing required documents or optional documents.
  10. Review and Submit Application.
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  12. You can review or revise your application at any point during the open period of the announcement.
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Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.

Agency contact information

MWR HR Staffing Team
Address
Gateway Arch National Park
11 North 4th Street
Saint Louis, MO 63102
US

Next steps

Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received you will receive acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the most qualified candidates and your name is referred to the hiring official, you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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