Traditional Trades Advancement Program – Delaware Water Gap

Position Summary 

The Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) is a 26- week, paid individual placement program. In the program, participants will have the opportunity to learn from preservation experts, develop the skills to enter the industry, and work in and preserve historic structures in a National Park.

Schedule 

May 19, 2025 – October 3, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

TTAP is an individual placement program of the National Park Service for aspiring preservation tradespeople. TTAP participants train and work alongside experienced NPS employees at a specific park site to preserve historic infrastructure and cultural resources. These valuable resources need constant thoughtful and careful preservation, repair, and maintenance. By assisting with preservation projects, participants directly improve the physical conditions of nationally significant park spaces that are accessed and enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. Participants gain practical, hands-on experience and the foundation for a career in historic preservation. They learn the fundamentals of historic preservation and receive on-the-job training in one or more traditional trades such as masonry, carpentry, woodcrafting, landscape preservation, and more. The program is committed to providing all aspiring preservationists—especially those underrepresented in the trades—with a unique opportunity to work on important real-world projects while building professional experience in America’s national parks. While no prior trades work experience is required, the ideal candidate is excited about hands-on trades work and should be able to demonstrate or discuss their interest in the historic preservation field.

Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Term: 26 weeks/Full-time, 40 hours per week, on-site position; starting May 19th, 2025 Duty Station: Located in Bushkill, PA at the Maintenance Compound across the street from the parks headquarters. The address for the park headquarters is: 1978 River Road Bushkill, PA 18324

Benefits:

• Hands on learning and job training experience
• Paid orientation and travel to orientation
• Mentorship for career and professional development
• Explore national parks
• Bi-weekly living allowance ($1440, pre-tax)
• Housing
• Certificate for Public Land Corps hiring eligibility (with successful completion of fellowship).

Required Qualifications 

• Age requirements: 18- 30 years old, up to 35 for Veterans
• Interest in craftsmanship, history, and preservation.
• Willingness to learn and use hand and power tools.
• Complete required forms and evaluations.
• Able to perform duties with or without accommodations.
• Pass a criminal history check.
• Valid driver’s license and insurable record.
• Professional, self-directed, and team-oriented.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident. Work Environment
• Conditions: Exposure to variable weather, rugged terrain, insects, and elevated platforms. • Tools & Safety: NPS provides tools, vehicles, and PPE; safety training required.

Physical Demands: Frequent movement, tool use, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Qualifications

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Shared park housing available

Compensation  

$1440 bi-weekly Living Allowance

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits 

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. SCA is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. 

Physical requirements and working conditions specific to the position are available in the full job description.