Preservationist Job in Gettysburg, PA

Vacancy No. NE-1612-GETT-25-12612995-OC Department National Park Service
Salary $28.58 to $33.33 Grade 9 to 9
Perm/Temp Temporary FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 12/2/2024 Close Date 5/19/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Gettysburg, PA


Summary

This announcement is for a seasonal Preservationist position. Please read below for more information. This is an open continuous vacancy announcement. Applicants will be referred periodically throughout the announcement period. Final application disposition will be completed once all positions have been filled or the announcement reaches the end of the open period stated in the announcement. The first cut-off date is 11:59 pm (est), December 16, 2024.

Duties

The Structures Preservation Branch is responsible for the maintenance and preservation of historic and non-historic structures throughout the park. This position requires skills applied to the maintenance, stabilization, restoration, repair and/or reconstruction of various historic and non-historic structures that range widely in historic period, architectural style, construction materials and existing condition.

  • Will perform a variety of basic trade tasks often combining trade practices such as carpentry, painting and roofing.
  • Carpentry duties require --measure, cut, construct, install, repair and reproduce wooden historic building elements on frame, timber or log structures including windows, doors, flooring and molding.
  • Will use traditional and modern hand tools to obtain finished surfaces typical of those found on existing historic wooden surfaces; and will also clean and prepare historic materials for re-use in preservation work.
  • Performs painting tasks which include surface preparation and mixing of paints to approximate color and texture of historic paints.
  • Assists with the inspection of historic structures/sites/landscapes onsite to determine physical condition and the type and amount of maintenance required to maintain them in the proper condition.
  • Makes technical recommendations to higher-level specialist and professionals regarding type of preservation treatment and/or preventative maintenance

AREA INFORMATION:

Gettysburg National Military Park (GETT) consists of more than 6,000 acres and preserves, protects and interprets for this and future generations the resources associated with the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War, the Soldiers' National Cemetery, and their commemorations. Learn more at http://www.nps.gov/gett.

Eisenhower National Historic Site (EISE) preserves and interprets the home and farms of the Eisenhower family as a fitting and enduring memorial to the life, work, and times of General Dwight David Eisenhower, 34th president of the United States, and to the events of far-reaching importance that occurred on the property. Learn more at http://www.nps.gov/eise.

The Gettysburg and Eisenhower parks are adjacent to one another in South Central Pennsylvania.

Government housing MAY be 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.
  • Direct Deposit Required: Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
  • Incidental Driving: You may be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties. Prior to your first official motor vehicle operation, and again every year thereafter (or more frequently if management determines such need exists), you will be required to sign an affidavit certifying to your possession of a valid State issued driver's license that is current and has not been revoked, suspended, canceled, or otherwise disqualified in any way to prohibit your operation of a motor vehicle. You will also submit a photocopy of your valid State issued driver's license prior to your first official motor vehicle operation, and again every year, or more frequently if management determines such need exists. Lastly, you may be required to 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 discloses all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you. Please indicate in your application whether you possess a valid State driver's license.
  • Uniform: You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
  • Minimum Age Requirement: 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.
  • Government Housing: Housing is may beavailable.

Qualifications

In order to qualify for the Preservationist, WG-4701-09 position, you must possess one of the following requirements:
  • 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)
  • Use of Measuring Instruments


SCREEN OUT: Possess knowledge and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform work as a Preservationist, WG-4701-09 position without more than normal supervision:This journeyman level experience must have included:1) Advanced knowledge of and skill in carpentry utilizing accepted trade methods and techniques. Must be skilled in the use of all hand tools such as skill saw, electric drill, router, chain saw, sander, table saws, jointer, radial saw, planer, shaper, floor sander and surfacing machines. 2) Knowledge of techniques and procedures involving the repair or construction of masonry structures and surfaces of brick, block stone and other related materials which involve repair of such items as partitions, walls, walkways and fireplaces. Must ensure the proper proportion of sand, lime cement and water are used to obtain the appropriate consistency. Must be able to use a variety of hand and power tools such as brick or napping hammer, brick or skill saw in cutting and shaping brick and axe, pick, chisel and hammer in cutting or shaping stone. 3) Ability to read, interpret and apply building plans, specifications, blueprints, sketches, working drawings and building codes. 4) Knowledge of investigation techniques and condition evaluations for historic structures to provide recommendations for appropriate preservation treatment on conventional and typical restoration/preservation projects. Knowledge of historic fabric identifications, analyzing of physical condition of structures and assessing preservation requirements. Skill in architectural investigations techniques when inspecting historic structures to determine their physical condition and the type and level of preservation treatments required to maintain their proper condition. 5) Knowledge of a wide variety of periods and styles of architectural designs, architectural history as pertains to 19th and 20th century periods of structure design and craftsmanship.
-OR-
Possess the ability to perform a full range of the Preservationist tasks as listed above on own initiative and under general supervision subject to occasional inspection.
-OR-
Possess the ability to perform at least 3 of the Preservationist tasks as listed above under general supervision, subject to regular inspection.

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.

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

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

Non-Competitive Rehire Eligibility: Temporary seasonal employees can only maintain their non-competitive rehire eligibility if they work no more than a combined total of Temporary NTE less than 1040 hours anywhere in the National Park Service (NPS) within their established service year. Accordingly, non-competitive rehire eligibility allows for re-appointment to the same position or another position appropriate for temporary appointment with the same qualification requirements (5 CFR 316.402[b][7]), based on series and grade, anywhere in the major subdivision (NPS).

If you have held a temporary seasonal appointment in the past 12 months and have already worked the maximum temporary appointment less than 1040 hours during that period, you are still welcome to apply. However, please be aware that exceeding the limit of 1040 hours in your established service year will result in the loss of your non-competitive rehire eligibility.

The limit can be exceeded by working multiple temporary seasonal positions that result in a combined total greater than 1040 hours. The limit also can be exceeded by working a single temporary seasonal appointment that exceeds 1040 hours, unless granted an exception by OPM.

Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.

Physical Demands: The incumbent performs work at construction sites. There is considerable physical exertion related to actions such as lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying objects of various sizes, weights, and shapes. There is considerable standing, stooping, lifting, and bending. Because of the multi-faceted craft aspects of this position, which requires the incumbent to work overhead or in a stretched, cramped, or awkward positions. Fieldwork magnifies the physical effort required to perform the duties of this position and reflect actual restoration project environments. Incumbent is required to perform craftsman work in the investigation of historic structures. Inspections may require working in cramped, close quarters underneath structures or on rooftops several hundred feet above ground level. The incumbent occasionally may lift and carry items that weigh 50 pounds or more. Back country work may require the incumbent to hike or ride by horseback to the job site in remote locations over rough terrain.

Working Conditions: Work is performed throughout the park, where the incumbent is subject to cuts from hand or power tools and danger from flying splinters or chips. In the shop the incumbent is exposed to noise and sawdust in the air. The presence of lead paint on historic fabric may require special knowledge and handling and the use of protective equipment in the ship or at the job site and require special attention and the sue of safety equipment. Work is done both inside and outside in all types of weather. Temperatures may vary from -20 to 90+ degrees. Winter snow depths may vary with icy driving conditions involved. May be exposed to snow and icy in the winter and rain and wind in the summer. Must have and maintain a valid state driver's license. Considering the nature of historic structures and the unknown structural characteristics, field inspections may contain some hazardous conditions (e.g. asbestos, PCBs).

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 will be rated and ranked using Category Rating procedures. These procedures place candidates with veteran's preference above non-preference eligibles within each category. Veterans with a service connected disability of at least 10 percent are listed in the highest quality category, except when the position being filled is scientific or professional at the GS-09 grade level or higher. Under Category Rating, candidates will be rated and ranked into one of three categories:

  • Best Qualified - applicants possessing experience that substantially exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are highly proficient in all requirements of the job and can perform effectively in the position
  • Well Qualified - applicants possessing experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in most of the requirements of the job
  • Qualified - applicants possessing experience that meets the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in some, but not all of the requirements of the job.
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)
  • Use of Measuring Instruments

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 05/19/2025:

  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. 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.
    • 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.
  4. Documentation that you meet Selective Factors.
  5. 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.
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.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

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 05/19/2025.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.

  1. Select Apply. If you are not logged in, you will be prompted to login or create an account.
  2. Prompted to Start the Application Process by selecting "Start Application."
  3. Select or add the resume you want to use for this application. Click here on how to build a resume in USAJOBS.
  4. Select documents you want included in this application.
  5. Review package to acknowledge your documents were reviewed.
  6. Select if you want to include your demographic information.
  7. After reading and certifying the application is true and submitted in good faith, select "Continue to Agency Site."
  8. Follow onscreen prompts and instructions to complete your application.
  9. Add the supporting documents by indexing your documents with the dropdown.
    • Upload any missing required documents or optional documents.
  10. Review and Submit Application.
  11. While logged in, you can check the status of your application by selecting "+" next to the job title for this position.
  12. You can review or revise your application at any point during the open period of the announcement.
    • To update an application, you should log into your USAJOBS account and select "+" next to the job title for this position. Select "Update Application" for this job.
    • Note: When you click Update Application, you will be prompted to re-select your documents from USAJOBS. Documents submitted with the first application will no longer be associated with the applicant record. So it is important that you select all documents you want to use in the re-application.

Agency contact information

Christopher Pfahl
Address
Gettysburg National Military Park
1195 Baltimore Pike
Suite 100
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
US
Learn more about this agency

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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