Groundskeeper I- Parks and Recreation

Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City

2d•$24•Onsite

About The Position

All positions require that the applicant be a resident of Wyandotte county or willing to relocate within (12) months from the date of hire. As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer physical examination and drug screen. And submit proof of identity and employment eligibility. Would you enjoy working outdoors and contributing to the care of parks, green spaces, and outdoor facilities? Are you skilled in operating a variety of lawn maintenance tools and equipment? Would you enjoy being part of a team that helps maintain public spaces for the community to enjoy? Why you should apply to be a part of the Unified Government of WYCO/KCK Parks and Recreation Department as a Groundskeeper I: Join our Parks & Recreation team and play a vital role in maintaining beautiful and functional outdoor spaces for the community to enjoy. This entry-level position is perfect for individuals who enjoy hands-on, outdoor work and take pride in keeping public parks and green spaces well-maintained. With opportunities for skill development and career growth, this role provides a great foundation for those looking to build a future in groundskeeping while making a positive impact on the community. Rationale for Proposed Classification: The Groundskeeper I position is essential to the Parks & Recreation Department, supporting the regular upkeep and maintenance of public parks, sports fields, and outdoor facilities. As an entry-level role, it provides foundational support in keeping these spaces safe, clean, and functional for community use. By maintaining high-quality public amenities, this position directly enhances the accessibility and enjoyment of outdoor spaces for residents and visitors. Summary of the Position: The Groundskeeper I is responsible for performing routine maintenance tasks to ensure the cleanliness, safety, and functionality of public parks, sports fields, sports courts, and outdoor facilities. This role involves operating a variety of lawn care and maintenance equipment, assisting with field preparation, and supporting seasonal responsibilities such as snow removal. Groundskeeper I employees work as part of a team to uphold the overall appearance and usability of community spaces.

Requirements

Graduation from High School or G.E.D. or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills.
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to perform manual labor tasks in outdoor settings and various weather conditions, including lifting, bending, pulling, and operating equipment.
Must possess a Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with air brakes or obtain one within six months of hire.
Valid Kansas driver’s license and acceptable driving record per the Unified Government’s Human Resources Driver Safety, Accident Reporting, and Vehicle Use policy throughout employment with the Unified Government.
Must be a resident of Wyandotte County or willing to relocate within 12 months of hire.
Ability to pass a criminal background check
Familiarity with lawn maintenance tools, equipment, and materials.
Knowledge of the safe operation of hand tools and gasoline-powered equipment.
Basic understanding of field maintenance tasks.
Ability to understand and carry out oral instructions.
Physical strength and agility to perform heavy work.
Competence in operating and maintaining groundskeeping equipment.
Ability to learn and safely operate landscaping tools and machinery.
Strong attention to detail in groundskeeping and maintenance tasks.
Effective communication and teamwork in a diverse work environment.
Ability to effectively work in various environments, including outdoor settings, with exposure to dirt, dust, loud noises, vibrations, and temperature extremes.
Ability to safely work around potential hazards, including pesticides, herbicides, machinery, traffic, and other right-of-way risks.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or a related field.
Previous experience in municipal or commercial landscaping or maintenance of grounds.
Experience with turf maintenance, sports field preparation, or irrigation systems.

Responsibilities

Perform daily maintenance for all equipment used.
Operate or drive a variety of specialized equipment including, but not limited to waste compactor trucks, dump trucks, zero turn mowers, front-end loaders, , tractors, and power/hand tools.
Load and unload materials such as stone, gravel, dirt, and trash.
Perform sport field maintenance tasks.
Operate trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws.
Remove trash and debris from work areas, parks and public spaces.
Complete required workorders.
Use hand and power tools associated with landscaping.
Operate turf aerating and other landscaping equipment.
Apply herbicides, pesticides, and granular materials as directed.
Prune, trim, and remove shrubs, trees, and stumps.
Assist with snow removal as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned.