Tractor Operator (Temporary)

National Park Service

Ochopee, FLFull-time$25.15–29.34/hrPosted 1w ago

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At a glance

Compensation
$25.15–29.34/hr
Location
Ochopee, FL
Schedule
Full-time
Work Authorization
Not specified

Requirements

Credentials this posting asks for.

U.S. CitizenshipSelective Service RegistrationE Verify PassValid Driver's License

Job overview

National Park Service is hiring a Tractor Operator (Temporary). The role serves as a temporary Tractor Operator for the National Park Service in Ochopee, Florida, performing farm‑type tractor and equipment operations to maintain grounds, roads, and medians within the Big Cypress National Preserve for up to two years.

Key focus areas include Operate farm‑type tractors and towed or attached equipment to maintain grounds and roads, Make hydraulic and mechanical connections between equipment and tractor, and Operate equipment such as mowers, plows, harrows, chippers, sprayers, and backhoes.

Important skills include Tractor Operation, Zero Turn Mower Operation, Farm Equipment Operation, Hydraulic Connections, Mechanical Connections, and Safe Driving.

Skills & qualifications

RequiredNice to have

Skills

Tractor OperationZero Turn Mower OperationFarm Equipment OperationHydraulic ConnectionsMechanical ConnectionsSafe DrivingInterpret InstructionsNon Motor Vehicle OperationWork PracticesReliabilityDependability

Qualifications

High School Diploma or EquivalentFormal Vocational Training ProgramValid Driver's LicenseU.S. CitizenshipSelective Service RegistrationE Verify PassDirect Deposit ParticipationUniform ComplianceMust Be 18+Tractor Operator ExperienceZero Turn Mower ExperienceFarm Type Tractor Experience

Full job description

You will serve as a Tractor Operator (Temporary) located within the Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Southeast Region, Big Cypress National Preserve, Ochopee, Florida. This is a temporary position expected to last one year but, may be extended up to a maximum of two years based on agency needs and potential funding. All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-08/26/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors: Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (SCREEN OUT) Ability to Drive Safely (Motor Vehicles) Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation) Ability To Operate Safely (Non-Motor Vehicle) Operation of Motor Vehicles Reliability and Dependability as a Tractor Operator Work Practices (including keeping things neat, clean, and in order) SCREEN OUT: Minimum Qualifications: Worked as a Tractor Operator, Operate Zero Turn Mowers (and list details in resume) and operate tractors off road. Operated farm-type tractor. Can drive the truck to tow the zero-turn mower or tractor to various locations. If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. Your resume must support your response to the assessment questionnaire, and if it does not, your application will be marked as not eligible. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors. You must meet at least 2 points on the screen-out element(s) and obtain an average of at least 2 points on all of the job elements to be considered qualified for this position. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: On a recurring basis, operates farm type tractors and towed or attached equipment to maintain grounds and roads medians and/or perform farming functions. Frequently operates towed or attached equipment from the seat of the tractor through hydraulic or mechanical Controls. Equipment operated may include mowers, plows, harrows, chippers, sprayers, disks, post hole diggers and backhoes. Make multiple hydraulic and mechanical connections between the towed and or attached equipment and the tractor. Incumbent works on level or rolling terrain in such areas as open fields, parks, or along roadways. For Park Information please visit: Big Cypress National Preserve (U.S. National Park Service) Conditions of Employment Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication. Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. Direct Deposit participation required. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit www.dhs.gov/EVerify/. Driver's License: Must have and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment. Government Housing: Housing may be available Uniform: You are required to wear a uniform and comply with the uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided. Minimum Age Requirement: You must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program. Age Restriction-MVO: You must be at least 18 years of age or older to operate government vehicles. Education There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.

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