Trading Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $34,766.00 - $64,682.00 Annually
Location : Gaithersburg, MD
Job Type: Career
Job Number: 12592
Department: MC Parks
Opening Date: 07/16/2026
Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
THIS IS A RE-ADVERTISEMENT. PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT REAPPLY.
We are seeking a motivated Plumber Trainee (Parks/Facilities Maintenance Worker) to support our Plumbing Shop within the Facilities Management Division. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience, work alongside skilled trades professionals, and contribute to the maintenance and improvement of public park infrastructure.
About the Division
The Facilities Management Division is a team of over 100 professionals responsible for maintaining the Department's facilities, infrastructure, fleet, and major building systems. With an annual budget exceeding $13 million, the division supports both daily operations and long-term Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), balancing the demands of aging infrastructure with new construction and upgrades.
About the Role
Under the guidance of experienced plumbers, you will perform a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and labor tasks that support plumbing operations across park facilities. This role offers exposure to specialized systems, equipment, and real-world projects while building a strong foundation in the skilled trades.
About Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks is an award-winning park system and part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). Supported by more than 800 dedicated employees, we care for 416 parks, trails, and natural spaces across Montgomery County, with team members working in a wide range of roles including park operations, public programs, planning, public safety, and administration. Our work is visible in everyday moments, from safe, well-maintained trails to welcoming parks and community programs. Careers with Montgomery Parks offer purpose, stability, and the opportunity to make a visible, lasting impact where people live, work, and connect.
Learn More About Montgomery Parks:
Examples of Important Duties
Hands-On Maintenance & Field Support

• Assist skilled plumbers with the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing, natural gas, and propane systems.
• Support work on water fountains, sewer systems, and park water infrastructure.
• Assist with installation and maintenance of rainwater harvesting systems and backflow prevention devices.
• Help conduct inspections and preventative maintenance of plumbing systems.

General Labor & Site Support

• Load, unload, and transport tools, materials, and equipment to job sites.
• Drive work vehicles to transport crew members and supplies.
• Perform general labor tasks such as digging, cleaning, painting, and demolition.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized job sites, including debris removal and disposal.

Tools, Equipment & Shop Operations

• Set up and safely use tools and equipment under supervision.
• Clean, maintain, and store tools, equipment, and vehicles properly.
• Support inventory management by organizing, counting, and tracking materials and supplies.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized shop environment.

Recordkeeping & Coordination

• Accurately track materials used, labor hours, and work completed.
• Complete daily work logs and assist with computerized reporting as needed.
• Support parts ordering and inventory tracking across multiple service regions.
• Contribute to monthly work progress reporting.

Safety First

• Follow all safety procedures, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Comply with MOSH/OSHA standards and Department policies.
• Operate tools and vehicles safely and responsibly.
• Identify and report hazards to maintain a safe work environment.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Pass Commission medical examination.
2. 17 years of age.

Supplemental Information
Classification Specification: Parks/Facilities Maintenance Worker
May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing.
Primarily works outside but may work inside on occasion or as assigned. May work weekends, evenings and holidays. Occasionally exposed to inclement weather, dirt, waste, odors, caustic chemicals, pesticides, wildlife and potentially harmful insects (e.g., bees, hornets, wasps) and plants (e.g., poison ivy). Ability to occasionally lift up to 100 pounds and regularly up to 50 pounds.

• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn in a hands-on environment.
• Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team.
• Basic experience with tools, equipment, or general maintenance work preferred.
• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, and working outdoors in varying conditions.

Why Join Us

• Gain valuable experience working alongside skilled trades professionals.
• Build a pathway into plumbing and other technical careers.
• Contribute to maintaining safe, functional, and high-quality public spaces.
• Be part of a supportive team that values safety, growth, and service.

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis ofrace, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor.
Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or 301-454-1411 (Maryland Relay 7-1-1)
M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.
THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION
2026 BENEFIT SUMMARY FOR MERIT SYSTEM EMPLOYEES
The following benefit summary is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor should be construed as an employment agreement with the M-NCPPC, implied or actual. It is not all-inclusive and is subject to change. Benefits listed are extended to all Merit System employees of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). All plans are optional except the Defined Benefit and Long-Term Disability plans.
Eligibility
You have 45 days from your hire date to elect your benefits. Your coverage begins on the first of the month following receipt of your enrollment forms and required documentation.
Retirement Programs

• Defined Benefit Plan (Mandatory Participation) - Plan E excludes FOP members.

PlanEmployee ContributionPlan C9.5%* of base salary (FOP members only)Plan E4% of base salary up to maximum Social Security Wage Base (SSWB) and 8% in excess of SSWB.

• 457 (b) Plan (Optional) (Pre-tax and Roth)
• Traditional and Roth IRAs (Optional)
• Retiree Healthcare - Eligibility requires, at least 10 years of eligible service and continuous enrollment in M-NCPPC plans (or proof of continuous enrollment in comparable plans) during the 36 months immediately preceding your retirement date. Premium cost share based on years of service

Health Insurance Plans (FOP Members Pay 23% for Medical, Prescription and Dental and same as all other employees for Vision.) All other employees pay percentage below.*

• Medical
  • Kaiser Permanente Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) - (15%)
  • UnitedHealthcare Select Exclusive Provider Organization Health Plan (EPO) - (20%)
  • UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus Point of Service (POS) - (20%)
• Prescription - CVS Caremark - (15%)
• Dental - Delta Dental PPO and DeltaCare USA HMO - (20%)
• Vision - EyeMed - (80% of Low Option plan paid by Commission. Any balance paid by employee.)
  • Low, moderate, and high options are available. Frequency of covered services differs.

Flexible Spending Accounts (Employee Pays 100%)

• Medical Account - Maximum annual contribution: $3,300
• Dependent Care Account - Maximum annual contribution: $7,500

Long-Term Disability Insurance (Mandatory Participation)

• Employee Pays 20%: Commission Pays 80% (FOP Members Pay 100%)
• Benefits paid at 66 2/3% of base salary, maximum of $6,000/month

Supplemental Long-Term Disability Insurance (Employee Pays 100%)

• Benefits paid at 66 2/3% of base salary that exceeds $108,000; capped at $216,000

Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Employee Pays 20%: Commission Pays 80%)

• Two (2) times base salary; maximum benefit is $200,000 for each
• Automatic coverage with opt-out provision

Supplemental and Spouse/Dependent Life Insurance (Employee Pays 100%)

• Supplemental - 1,2,3,4, or 5 times base salary; maximum benefit is $750,000
• Spouse/Dependent Combination - $10,000/$5,000, $20,000/$10,000, or $30,000/$15,000

Sick Leave Bank (Contribution and Benefit hours prorated for part-time employees)

• Employees have 60 days from date of hire to enroll.
• Employee contributes 8 leave hours each year
• Annually covers up to 688 hours for own serious medical condition, and 480 hours for parental responsibilities (birth, adoption or foster care), and 80-160 hours for serious medical condition of an immediate family member

Leave Programs

• Annual: 15 days per year
• Personal: 3 days per year (12-month waiting period)
• Sick: 15 days per year
• Holidays: 11 days per year

Other Benefits

• Credit Union
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Legal Services Plan
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Wellness Program
• Work-Life Program

For a more detailed description of benefits, please contact the Commission's Health and Benefits Office at or 301-454-1694.
01
Describe your experience performing general maintenance, labor, or hands-on work. What types of tasks have you completed, and what tools or equipment have you used?
02
This position requires working outdoors, following safety procedures, and supporting a team. How do you ensure your work is completed safely, efficiently, and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment?
03
Are you at least 17 years of age?

• Yes
• No

Required Question