Tree Worker (Seasonal)

Summary The purpose of this position is to properly care for and maintain trees within the boundaries of Rock Creek Park. The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period for Rock Creek Park is May-September but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: Beginning of May Open to the first 100 applicants or until 12/24/2025 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration. Duties The major duties of the Tree Worker position include, but are not limited to, the following: Performs regular tree maintenance activities such as tree and shrub pruning, tree removal, planting, transplanting, spraying, and cultivating. Climbs trees to perform work on a regular basis, which can include trees up to 120 feet in height or higher. Uses complex climbing techniques, rope knots, and specialized climbing hardware safely and in accordance with industry standards. Uses complex rigging techniques on a regular basis and when the use of a crane is necessary. Inspects, diagnoses, and identifies hazardous trees for annual tree condition assessment and determines corrective actions. Requirements Conditions of employment U.S. Citizenship required. Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication. Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program. You will be required to submit to a drug test and receive a negative drug test result prior to appointment. In addition, this position is subject to random testing for illegal drug use. 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. You must possess and maintain a current Class B (or higher) Commercial Driver's License. You may be required to complete training and operate a four-wheel drive vehicle. You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided. You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime and shift work. Government Charge Card: You may be required to complete training and obtain/maintain a government charge card with travel and/or purchase authority. 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. Ability to lift 50 pounds Qualifications To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors: Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT) Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (includes blueprinting and reading) Ability to Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment Knowledge of Materials Dexterity and Safety Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic) Use of Measuring Instruments Condition of Employment (Requirement): Ability to lift 50lbs: Applicants must demonstrate a degree of physical fitness necessary to perform duties. This includes ability to work for extended periods outdoors in all weather conditions, ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb and lift and move heavy items (in excess of 50 pounds) to chest level (SCREEN OUT). Commercial Driver's License: You must possess and maintain a current Class B (or higher) Commercial Driver's License (SCREEN OUT). 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: Significant physical effort is required for the position. The incumbent usually works outdoors performing physical activities that require considerable use of their arms and legs and moving their whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials. The work involved in climbing is very demanding physically and the incumbent is frequently exposed to serious injuries from falls. Incumbent is required to climb trees to significant heights, handle ropes, carry and use equipment such as chainsaws, crouch, bend, lift up to 50 pounds, handle and carry awkward tree pieces and limbs. Incumbent is often on their feet for long periods of time. The incumbent may also be required to be confined to a sitting position while operating equipment for long periods of time. Working Conditions: Must possess the ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, pull, or carry objects, frequently handles items weighing up to 50 pounds. The incumbent is exposed to insecticides and other poisonous chemicals. The work involved in climbing is very demanding physically and the incumbent is frequently exposed to serious injuries from falls. The nature of the employee's work requires the employee to consistently work along the park's roadways where throughout the day there is high-volume, high-speed traffic in excess of 55 MPH. This represents an immediate danger and requires the employee to be completely knowledgeable, skilled, and attentive to operate and maneuver vehicles and equipment to conduct proper traffic control operations. The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are suitable NOT for telework. Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. 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.