A Maintenance Helper or Assistant assists maintenance mechanics. Repairs and maintains equipment and machines, such as cars or heating systems. May assemble or adjust machines as directed by a head mechanic.
Join the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and help support the care and maintenance of beautiful forest lands. This role gives you hands-on experience with outdoor work that keeps trails, facilities, and natural areas safe and accessible. Every day offers the chance to learn new skills while working in scenic environments. Step into a position where your effort truly supports Pennsylvania's public lands.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
This position focuses on performing semi-skilled manual work that supports the upkeep of trails, facilities, roads, and natural areas throughout the state forest. As a Semi Skilled Laborer, you will perform the following duties:
Sign Maintenance:
Construct, paint, and install trail signs throughout forest trail systems
Trail Clearing:
Remove brush and fallen trees from roads and trails using cutters and chainsaws
Facility Care:
Clean restrooms, pick up debris, and maintain boundary lines and gates
Seasonal Work:
Plow snow, mow grass, and maintain culverts and headwalls during various seasons
Equipment Use:
Operate tractors, forklifts, skid steers, and other machinery as assigned
Emergency Support:
Respond to wildfires, rescue efforts, and assist foresters with forest management tasks Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
Seasonal, full-time employment with no health care benefits. There is not an option to buy into health care benefits. The season runs from approximately March 2026 until November 2026 at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment in March 2027. Work hours will be between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM Monday - Friday. Specifics about work schedules, including the possibility of an alternate work schedule, will be discussed during the interview. This position may require overtime.
Telework:
You will not have the option to telework in this position.
Salary:
In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
One year of experience in laboring work including the use of tools and equipment used in maintenance or construction; or An equivalent combination of experience and training.
Conditions of Employment:
This position requires possession of a valid PA non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent. Health & Wellness We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs. Compensation & Financial Planning We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options. Work/Life Balance We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities. Values and Culture We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving. Employee Perks Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships. For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box. Eligibility rules apply.
