Traditional Trades Advancement Program at Manassas National Battlefield

Position Summary 

Build your hands-on preservation trades skills at Manasses National Battlefield through projects addressing a range of historic preservation needs. Over the course of a 26-week immersive experience, TTAP participants train and work alongside experienced NPS employees to preserve cultural resources and crucial infrastructure. This position is a great way to gain practical, hands-on experience and the foundation for a career in historic preservation.

 

Location 

Manassas, VA

 

Schedule 

January 5, 2026 - July 3, 2026, [Monday-Friday, 7:00-3:30]

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The projects at Manassas National Battlefield will focus on window glazing, wood floor and door repair, painting and staining. Monument work will involve light cleaning, masonry work, and waxing bronze and plaques. Additional tasks may include treating floors, window treatments, and furnishing at each of our historic structures. 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. TTAP Placements must be able to commit to a 26-week term. This position is scheduled for January 5, 2026 - July 3, 2026 with weekends and federal holidays off.

 

Skills Training & Support Provided: ·

• Carpentry · Painting, staining and finishes ·
• Masonry and monument preservation ·
• Hand and power tools use ·
• General preservation maintenance ·
• OSHA 10 Construction certification

 

Position Benefits: ·

• $1,440 bi-weekly living allowance (pre-tax)
• $1000 Funding for independent professional development
• Travel and associated expenses for in-person Historic Preservation Fundamentals course
• Public Land Corps Hiring Authority (at position completion)
• OSHA 10 Certification
• Training and networking opportunities with NPS and preservation professionals
• Park housing available

 

Marginal Duties 

• Inventorying tools and equipment
• Light custodial duties including dusting and tidying up areas
• Basic landscaping including mulching
• Replacing lightbulbs or small fixtures
• Covering and protecting materials from harsh elements including weather events
• Assisting members of the visiting public with directions and site information

 

Required Qualifications 

• Interest in historic preservation trades and continuing into the trades field
• Age restrictions: 18 - 30 (or 35 for Veterans) · Must be able to commit to the project for 26 weeks (start date flexible)
• Physical effort is heavy to moderate for this position and requires occasional lifting or handling of objects or materials up to 50lbs, unassisted, following proper lifting procedures to avoid injury.
• Frequently required to stand while working, climb ladders or scaffolding, and bend, stoop, climb, and work in awkward positions.
• Interest in using hand and power tools in an outdoor setting to complete projects
• Ability to commute to meet up location daily
• Follow all safety rules and regulations and participate in ongoing safety culture of the site.
• Must have the ability to pass DOI background check to receive PIV card.

 

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.

 

Preferred Qualifications 

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Shared, Park Housing available

 

Compensation  

$1,440 bi-weekly living allowance (pre-tax) · $1000 Funding for independent professional development

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

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

 

Additional Benefits