Historic Preservation Trades Placement at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Gatlinburg, TN
Program Dates: April 6, 2026 – October 2, 2026
Schedule: 40 hours/week (weekends and federal holidays off)
Compensation: $1,440 bi-weekly living allowance (pre-tax)

Position Summary

Build hands-on preservation trades skills at Great Smoky Mountains National Park through projects addressing a range of historic preservation needs. During this 26-week immersive experience, TTAP interns train and work alongside experienced National Park Service (NPS) employees to preserve cultural resources and critical infrastructure.

Primary projects will focus on roofing repairs for various historic structures, including log cabins, barns, and wood frame houses. This internship provides practical, career-building experience in historic preservation.

Program Overview

The Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) is an internship program of the National Park Service for aspiring preservation tradespeople. Participants work alongside NPS staff to preserve historic infrastructure and cultural resources.

Through hands-on projects and formal training, participants gain practical skills in traditional trades such as masonry, carpentry, woodcrafting, and landscape preservation. TTAP provides participants with career-building experience while supporting nationally significant park resources.

Skills Training & Support Provided

• Roofing, including safety standards

• Masonry (rock skirt and chimney)

• Window restoration (glazing and replacement)

• Chinking on log cabins

• Hand and power tool use

• General preservation maintenance

• OSHA 10 Construction certification

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Roofing projects for log cabins, barns, and wood frame houses

• Log cabin floor repairs

• Window restoration

• Masonry repair

• Chinking replacement on log cabins

• Assist with general preservation maintenance and upkeep

Marginal Duties

• Documentation, research, and project reporting

• Custodial duties as needed

Required Qualifications

• Interest in historic preservation trades and pursuing a career in the field

• Age 18–30 (or up to 35 for veterans)

• Commitment to the full 26-week program (start date flexible)

• Physical effort is heavy to moderate: occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, climbing ladders or scaffolding, bending, stooping, and working in awkward positions

• Interest in using hand and power tools in outdoor settings

• Ability to commute to the daily meeting location

• Willingness to follow all safety rules and participate in ongoing safety culture

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass DOI driver standards and background check

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing is not provided

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Compensation & Benefits

• $1,440 bi-weekly living allowance (pre-tax)

• $1,000 funding for independent professional development

• Travel support for in-person Historic Preservation Fundamentals course

• OSHA 10 Certification

• Public Land Corps Hiring Authority eligibility (upon successful completion)

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

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SCA fosters a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect and is committed to maintaining a workplace where individuals can grow personally and professionally.