Parks Maintenance Specialist

Downers Grove Park District•Downers Grove, IL

15h•$23 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

As a Parks Maintenance Specialist, you'll play a key role in keeping our parks and facilities beautiful, safe, and ready for the community to enjoy. This is a hands-on position that includes grounds and turf work, athletic field preparation, equipment operation, general repairs and maintenance across our park system.

Requirements

Formal training from an accredited technical school, college, or university OR at least five (5) years of occupationally specific training/experience beyond high school.
Working knowledge of grounds maintenance, athletic field preparation, and equipment operation
Ability to follow equipment safety protocols and complete incident reporting
Safety-focused and able to work efficiently in changing outdoor conditions
Able to prioritize tasks, respond to urgent needs, and work independently or as part of a team
Strong communication skills and a service-oriented attitude
Comfortable learning and using basic software tools as needed (work orders, email, etc.)
Reliable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented
Valid Illinois Driver's License required
Must obtain an Illinois pesticide operator’s license or be willing to obtain within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

Grounds & Turf Management
Mow using proper techniques (height, patterns, frequency)
Perform aeration, seeding, fertilization, and weed control
Identify turf diseases and pests and follow seasonal maintenance schedules
Athletic Field Maintenance
Prepare ballfields and complete line marking for a variety of sports
Groom infields, manage clay maintenance, and support drainage needs
Install goals and athletic equipment and complete regular field safety inspections
Irrigation & Water Systems
Operate and maintain irrigation systems (valve adjustments, winterization)
Detect leaks and complete basic repairs while practicing water conservation
Work with backflow prevention knowledge and best practices
Carpentry, Construction & Finishing
Repair and install benches, bleachers, fences, and picnic tables
Maintain decks and boardwalks and assist with basic structural assessments
Complete surface prep, priming, and painting (including court and parking lot striping)
Equipment Operation & General Maintenance
Safely operate equipment such as zero-turn mowers, tractors, blowers, edgers, and pressure washers
Perform basic small engine maintenance
Handle trash removal, pathway cleaning, and playground inspections