Position Summary
Build your hands-on preservation trades skills at Andrew Johnson National Historic Site 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. The projects at Andrew Johnson National Historic Site will focus on the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery historic wall which was installed in 1908.
Location
Greeneville, TN
Schedule
April 6, 2026 – October 3, 2026
Skills Training & Support Provided:
· Sealant applicator (Historic Assets)
· Painting and finishes
· Walkway repair
· Hand and power tools use
· General preservation maintenance
· Operation maintenance training in job tasks
· OSHA 10 Construction certification
Position Benefits:
· $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
Compensation
$1,440 bi-weekly living allowance (pre-tax)
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
The Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) is an internship 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, wood crafting, landscape preservation, historic masonry restoration, 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.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The TTAP intern will work with park staff in removing old broken-down damaged caulking from the wall, which then will install new backer rod and caulking material to improve the viewshed assets of the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery. Additional tasks landscape cleans up along the wall in order to keep the work area clean at all times. This work will be taking place in an active National Cemetery, which may have a burial ceremony service. 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.
Marginal Duties
The team member will have opportunities to explore and learn masonry, carpentry, and historic preservation in the project. Intern will be responsible for housekeeping of work areas to ensure they are safe at all times to themselves and others.
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 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
Local to Greenville, TN (Housing is not provided at this site)
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Housing is not provided.
Personal Vehicle Information
Recommended
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.
