Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) at Cape Lookout National Seashore

Position Summary 

Build your hands-on preservation trades skills at Cape Lookout National Seashore 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 

Beaufort, NC

Schedule 

January 5, 2026 - July 3, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The projects at Cape Lookout National Seashore will focus on carpentry, wood window restoration and fabrication, door removal and install, staining and finishes, and trim work. Additional tasks may include learning about the process of foundation work and raising a building for piling installation and repair. 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.

Marginal Duties 

Research and documentation

Custodial duties, as needed

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.

• Comfortable using hand and power tools in an outdoor setting to complete projects

• Ability to commute to meet up location daily (less than 10 miles from park housing)

• Willing to travel by boat to project site regularly

• Follow all safety rules and regulations and participate in ongoing safety culture of the site.

• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to pass DOI driver standards and background check

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 

No experience in preservation trades required!

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

• Shared, park housing available

Compensation  

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

• $1,000 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

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits 

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement 

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

Salary : $1,440