NPS Internship For Students Hiring 2025 (Maintenance Worker)

For students and recent graduates looking to explore promising careers in maintenance and public service, the National Park Service (NPS) has an exciting opportunity. The 2025 Maintenance Worker Internship is a program designed to provide hands-on experience in maintaining and preserving some of the most iconic national parks in the United States. If you’re passionate about meaningful work and want to build your skills in a variety of trades, this is the perfect opportunity to take the first step toward a fulfilling career.

Get ready to uncover the details about available roles, requirements, benefits, and how you can apply for this exciting internship opportunity!

Program Overview:

The NPS Student Maintenance Worker Internship is more than just a temporary job—it’s a chance to gain valuable real-world experience while contributing to the care of U.S. national parks. This program is aimed at individuals who are eager to develop their technical and practical skills in carpentry, painting, equipment maintenance, landscaping, and more.

Participants will work under the mentorship of seasoned professionals, mastering maintenance tasks that support the beauty and functionality of park facilities. This unique experience not only equips interns with hands-on skills but also allows them to make a difference in preserving the natural heritage of our nation.

Key Responsibilities

• Performing carpentry repairs on park structures such as benches, picnic tables, signage, and waste bins.
• Assisting in basic plumbing tasks like replacing toilet seats, unclogging sinks and toilets, and installing soap dispensers.
• Tackling landscaping projects—planting, pruning, fertilizing, and more.
• Preparing surfaces for painting and completing touch-ups on equipment, signs, and other structures.
• Conducting inspections, maintaining light fixtures, and assisting in roof or wall repairs.
• Operating and maintaining power tools and equipment, such as mowers and forklifts, safely and efficiently.
• Supporting custodial tasks and general upkeep of park facilities.

This internship offers a wide variety of assignments, fostering a diverse skill set that can’t be taught in a classroom.

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to current students enrolled in accredited institutions at the high school, college, or graduate level. If you’re passionate about gaining practical work experience and contributing to incredible environments, this is the right fit for you.

Key Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and be eligible to operate government or private vehicles.
• Candidates must meet Selective Service registration requirements (for males).
• A strong understanding of basic maintenance skills and tools is essential.
• Participants must be physically capable of handling demanding tasks, including lifting up to 40 pounds and working in challenging weather conditions.

Qualifications

Applicants should have knowledge and abilities in the following areas:

• Ability to operate maintenance tools and equipment safely.
• Basic carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical repair knowledge.
• Skills in interpreting instructions and specifications, including blueprint reading.
• Proven ability to work under supervision while tackling entry-level tasks.

Volunteer or related work experience (e.g., community service, school projects, etc.) is highly valued and can add to your application’s strength.

Salary and Benefits

Interns are compensated with competitive hourly wages aligned with federal pay scales. Benefits of the program include:

• A uniform allowance to cover the cost of approved work attire.
• Opportunities for advancement and non-competitive conversion to permanent employment within the federal service upon completion of the internship.
• An enriching, one-of-a-kind work environment focused on hands-on learning and mentorship.

This position’s temporary appointment lasts one year, with extensions available depending on eligibility and program funding.

What Skills Will You Develop?

The NPS internship equips students with a range of practical skills that are directly applicable to careers in maintenance and beyond:

• Trade Knowledge: Acquire an in-depth understanding of carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, and maintenance.
• Problem-Solving: Learn to handle everyday maintenance challenges with creativity and confidence.
• Tool Expertise: Get hands-on training in a wide range of tools and equipment, from saws to industrial mowers.
• Teamwork: Collaborate closely with supervisors and team members to meet shared goals.

By the completion of the internship, you’ll have a work-ready skill set that can boost your career prospects in the maintenance field.

How to Apply

Applications for this position must follow the outlined process below. Here’s how you can get started:

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials

To be considered, you’ll need:

• A detailed resume showcasing your education, volunteer work, and relevant experience.
• Copies of academic transcripts from your school or college.
• Documentation proving active enrollment in an educational program (letters from advisors, updated transcripts, or class schedules all suffice).

Step 2: Follow the Job Announcement Details

The job announcement is open continuously with several cut-off dates for applications. Be sure to submit your materials well before the initial cut-off date on Friday, December 13, 2024, to increase your chances of consideration.

Why This Internship Is Worth It

The NPS Student Maintenance Worker Internship isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to combine learning with purpose. Interns will work in beautiful landscapes, gain interdisciplinary hands-on experience, and contribute to the preservation of parks enjoyed by millions.

With pathways to permanent employment and a network of mentors and peers, this program is an invaluable step toward long-lasting success in a maintenance or technical career.

Don’t miss this chance to grow your skills while making a real difference. Get started today by preparing your application and submitting it before the deadline. Adventure awaits with the National Park Service!

Submit NPS Internship Application