Tree Worker Helper (Seasonal)

US National Park Service; California; On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

The US National Park Service is seeking a Seasonal Tree Worker Helper to support journey level tree trimming and removal teams. Primary duties include basic cutting, trimming, pruning, limbing, and assisting with equipment operation in outdoor park settings.

Open to candidates for the typical season (April–November) with anticipated entry around April–May 2027. This is a seasonal, outdoor position with a fixed closing date of 10/26/2026 for applications.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic tree work including trimming, pruning, limbing, and bucking.
• Ability to operate and maintain tree removal/cutting equipment safely.
• Willingness to follow instructions and work under supervision in field conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic tree cutting, limbing, bucking, wedging, flushing, trimming, pruning and/or removal.
• Operate, maintain and repair tree removal/cutting equipment in safe condition.
• Assist journey level workers by performing routine duties and supporting in the field.

Skills

Tree trimming basics

Chainsaw operation

Safety awareness

Volunteer experience

Tools

Chainsaws

Job description

You will serve as a Tree Worker Helper (Seasonal). The purpose of the position is to assist journey level tree trimming and removing workers by performing the simpler and more routine duties of trimming, pruning,

The typical season is April - November but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: April - May, 2027.

Open to the first 170 applicants or until 10/26/2026 whichever comes first.

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-10/26/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors:

1. Ability to Do the Work of the Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT). Tree Worker Helpers at this level perform a wide range of tasks which can include basic tree cutting, limbing, bucking, wedging, flushing, trimming, pruning and/or removal; Operate, maintain and repair tree removal/cutting equipment in clean, serviceable and safe condition; Complete projects following verbal or written instructions under direct supervision when operating chainsaws, moving logs, and piling for burning or removal, assisting in felling, blushing, trimming, pruning and/or removal; Use and maintain tools and performing skills common to the forestry trade including serving as a lookout and flagger to protect life and property, loading and unloading supplies and materials; or loading and unloading supplies and materials.

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. Your resume must support your response to the assessment questionnaire, and if it does not, your application will be marked as not eligible. 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.

You must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements to be considered qualified for this position.

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.