Volunteer Maintenance Worker

INTRODUCTION

This position serves as a Volunteer Maintenance Worker within the National Park Service. The purpose of this position is to assist maintenance staff in the upkeep, repair, and preservation of park facilities, grounds, and infrastructure.

Work supports the NPS mission to preserve unimpaired resources while providing for visitor use and enjoyment. Volunteers perform duties under the guidance of maintenance staff and do not function as federal employees.

This position is aligned with DOI strategic goals related to maintaining infrastructure, improving visitor experience, and ensuring public lands remain accessible and safe.

MAJOR DUTIES

Performs basic maintenance and repair tasks involving buildings, grounds, and facilities, including:

• Assists with routine maintenance of structures such as buildings, fences, trails, and roads
• Performs minor carpentry, painting, and repair work using hand and power tools
• Assists in grounds maintenance such as mowing, trimming, clearing debris, and landscaping
• Supports trail maintenance including clearing vegetation, repairing tread, and installing features (e.g., water bars)
• Assists with cleaning and upkeep of public-use areas such as restrooms, picnic areas, and campgrounds
• Loads, unloads, and moves materials, tools, and supplies

Uses and maintains tools and equipment:

• Operates basic hand tools and small power equipment (e.g., trimmers, blowers)
• Follows instructions for safe equipment use and storage
• Reports damaged or unsafe tools/equipment

Supports maintenance operations:

• Follows assigned work orders or direction from maintenance staff
• Assists higher-graded workers on more complex tasks
• Maintains work areas in a clean and organized condition

Knowledge Required

Basic knowledge of maintenance and repair tasks involving buildings, grounds, or trails. Ability to follow instructions and safely use common tools and equipment.

Supervision Received

Works under close to general supervision. Assignments are explained with clear instructions. More complex tasks are performed with guidance.

Complexity

Performs recurring tasks that are physical and practical in nature. Work involves a variety of basic maintenance activities.

Scope and Effect

Work contributes to safe, clean, and functional park facilities, directly supporting visitor experience and resource protection.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Performs moderate to strenuous physical labor including lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, walking, and standing for long periods
• Works outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work is performed both indoors and outdoors
• Exposure to weather, dirt, noise, and potentially hazardous conditions
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required

Safety is a core expectation, consistent with NPS employee and volunteer standards.

VOLUNTEER EXPECTATIONS

Consistent with NPS expectations frameworks:

• Follows safety procedures and reports hazards promptly
• Arrives on time and prepared for assigned tasks
• Treats staff, visitors, and resources with respect
• Follows supervisor instructions and asks questions when unclear

These reflect conduct expectations rather than performance standards and should be reinforced through orientation and coaching rather than formal appraisal systems.