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Recreation Technician - Military Veterans Only

Mt. Adams Institute
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The VetsWork program is a paid, AmeriCorps internship program (45 weeks) for military veterans who are interested in starting a career in the natural resources, public lands management, and conservation fields.

To view a full position description and application instructions please visit: mtadamsinstitute.org/vetswork


Position Title: Maintenance Technician

Partner Organization: Tongass National Forest

Project Location: 421 Ocean Cape Rd, Yakutat, AK 99689

Service Dates: August 11, 2025 to June 19, 2026

Position Summary - 

 In partnership with the Mt. Adams Institute (MAI), the Yakutat Ranger District on the Tongass National Forest will sponsor a VetsWork AmeriCorps Intern to serve as a Maintenance Technician. 

This position will provide critical support to a small, dynamic staff working on a diverse set of projects in a remote Alaskan Ranger District. The primary duties will involve fleet and facility maintenance. However, as is typical of a remote District, the job will be varied, with a mix of fish and wildlife fieldwork, trail and backcountry cabin duties, environmental education, community events, and office-based work. Many former interns on this District have gone on to natural resource management positions.   

The Intern will work in the office, shop, and field and projects can be performed outside under all weather conditions; weekends and holiday projects are possible. Facilities and recreation management is a very rewarding service, as maintained recreation areas provide opportunities for visitors to explore the Tongass National Forest’s beautiful natural resources. 

Benefits:

  • $22,500 living allowance – paid monthly over the 10 ½ -month term of service ($500 weekly, before taxes)
  • $7,395 education award (can be used towards qualified student loans and/or education expenses)
  • $800/month housing stipend
  • Forest Service bunkhousing is available to rent.
  • Student loan forbearance
  • Health Care
  • Professional development, training and networking opportunities
  • Potential GI Bill benefits (up to $2,400 per month)


Essential Functions - to include, but not limited to: 

  • Vehicle maintenance including tracking mileage, preventative maintenance, changing tires, fixing flats, and assisting with oil changes.
  • Improve conditions of Forest Service buildings and developed recreation sites.
  • Construct, maintain and repair facilities through carpentry, electrical, general landscaping, plumbing and other general construction.
  • Maintain facilities through janitorial duties such as cleaning gutters, changing light fixtures, replacing appliances, fixing doors, windows, and toilets, repairing damaged siding, and painting buildings and fuel tanks.
  • Maintain developed recreation sites by clearing brush, removing snow, collecting garbage, mowing, weed whacking, etc.
  • Maintain signage on the Forest including inventory, repairs, and replacement.
  • Cross training opportunities with various departments including special uses, fisheries, and wildlife.

Position Requirements - to include, but not limited:

  • Must have a valid driver's license, clean driving record and ability to provide documentation.
  • Experience with light construction work, hand and power tools, and routine vehicle maintenance.
  • Ability to hike up to 3 miles, carrying a pack, over difficult terrain.
  • Comfortable in inclement weather, traveling by boat or aircraft, and working in bear country.
  • Basic computer literacy: emails, Microsoft office, etc.
  • A positive attitude and excellent interpersonal skills with respect for various perspectives.
  • Ability to work with a small team, while also being self-motivated and independent as needed.
  • Must have served in the Uniformed Services of the United States, including Guard and Reserves and have a DD214 with an honorable discharge (or general under honorable on a case by case basis).
  • At least 21 years of age at beginning of service term.
  • Ability to commit to the full 45-week term of service.
  • Selection, placement, and retention are contingent upon passing the National Sex Offender Public Registry, state of service and state of residence criminal history check, and a national FBI check.
  • Must follow all health and safety policies and procedures, including any changes that are implemented throughout the course of the program. Accepting a position means accepting the current requirements and any updates to those requirements while enrolled in the program.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Mechanic and carpentry training/experience.
  • Experience with equipment operation (backhoe, mower, weed-whackers, chainsaws)
  • Experience with small engine repair, welding, and trail work.
  • Experience with data entry utilizing Excel.
  • Experience with outdoor recreation in a backcountry setting.


To Apply:
After reading the full position description on our website (linked at the top and below), email the following application materials to erica@mtadamsinstitute.org:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter (include your motivation for applying in the letter)
  • 3 professional references (include name, email, phone number, and relation to you)
  • DD214 with honorable discharge.
    • A General Under Honorable discharge will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
    • Must be long form "Member 4 copy" (has a total of 30 boxes of information)



Visit mtadamsinstitute.org/vetswork for a full position description as well as a detailed program overview, application instructions, and frequently asked questions.

 

Contact Erica Bingham for further information or if you have questions about the VetsWork program at erica@mtadamsinstitute.org.