SkillBridge Maintenance Intern

Main Goals for Position:

The DOD Skillbridge program allows Service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during their last 180 days of their service. For more information on the DOD Skillbridge program, visit DOD SkillBridge (osd.mil).  

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park (ABLI) seeks a Skillbridge intern to work with the Facilities and Maintenance team. The SkillBridge intern will have a chance to learn and gain experience and knowledge, skills and abilities associated with working at a national park.  

Description: 

The DOD Skillbridge program allows Service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during their last 180 days of their service. For more information on the DOD Skillbridge program, visit DOD SkillBridge (osd.mil)

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park (ABLI) seeks a Skillbridge intern to work with the Facilities and Maintenance team. The SkillBridge intern will have a chance to learn and gain experience and knowledge, skills and abilities associated with working at a national park. Duties will include maintenance and repair of grounds, exterior structures, buildings, and related utilities.

Position Duties:

As a uniformed volunteer with the National Park Service, the volunteer serves as a front-line representative of the agency working in the maintenance division. Volunteers will work with other volunteers and maintenance staff to help in the routine grounds, trails maintenance and custodial duties of the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. This could include mowing, blowing leaves, weed eating, blazing trails, removing brush, litter pickup, cleaning structures, cleaning signs, painting, staining, and more. Required trainings will be provided. Volunteers may also perform landscape maintenance, including, but not limited to; operating a variety of mowers, UTV’s, leaf blowers, trimmers and other hand tools, assist in fertilizing, weeding, planting trees, shrubs and grass, tree trimming/pruning, and mulching, and related tasks. May assist in work requiring carpentry, electrical repair, painting, plumbing, and masonry. Volunteers over the age of 18 will be trained on use of UTVs and may operate them. This will include an introduction to the park grounds as well as the history of the park. Also included will be safety training for any essential tools. Must have ability to learn to use various powered and/or hand tools and train using proper safety practices such as wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). All PPE will be provided by the park. 

Qualifications:  

Volunteers are required to wear the provided park maintenance uniform and represent the National Park Service by acting in a courteous and professional manner with visitors, park staff, and other volunteers. The ability to learn to use various powered and/or hand tools and train using proper safety practices such as wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is mandatory.

Working Environment and Safety Considerations:

Working Environment: 

• Natural Settings: Volunteers have the opportunity to engage with diverse landscapes, including wooded areas, meadows, and historical sites.  

Climate: 

• Seasonal Variations: The climate in Kentucky features four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow. 
• Rainfall: The region experiences moderate rainfall, particularly in spring and early summer, which may affect outdoor activities and planning. 
• Weather Preparedness: Volunteers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, with appropriate gear for both hot and cold weather. 

Physical Demands: 

• Mobility: Volunteers may need to walk or hike to different locations within the park, which can involve uneven terrain. 
• Manual Labor: Depending on their role, volunteers may encounter physical demands such as lifting materials up to 50 lbs. setting up materials, or carrying equipment. 
• Endurance: Working outdoors for extended periods can require stamina, especially during warmer months or while participating in community events. 
• Adaptability: Volunteers must be flexible in adapting to both environmental and community dynamics, responding to visitors and weather changes as they carry out their activities.