Groundsperson

This position performs work under supervision to contribute to the maintenance and operations of City parks, facilities, and public grounds.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Responsible for landscaping, turf, and tree maintenance using entry level skills of pruning, transplanting, planting, drainage, fertilizing, mowing, trimming, and edging.
• Responsible for safety, cleanliness, and orderly appearance of parks, facilities, and public grounds.
• Responsible for proper use and maintenance of all tools, equipment, and vehicles.

• Landscape City properties including planting and transplanting trees, vegetation, and shrubbery. Prunes trees and shrubs.
• Operate vehicles, equipment, and a variety of hand and small power tools as required to support park operations.
• Help in the installation and repair of park facilities and amenities using basic skills in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, cement finishing, and mechanical skills.
• Perform routine service and maintenance (sharpening, lubricating, cleaning, etc.) on mowers and other equipment.
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of irrigation and drainage systems.
• Assist in installing brick and cement walkways, stairways, and park benches. Assemble and erect equipment such as swing sets, basketball hoops, etc.
• Clean City facilities and parks including removing garbage and waste from public spaces and cleaning restrooms and other facilities.
• Perform sports field maintenance of over sanding, fertilizing, grass seeding, dragging and leveling infields, mowing, watering, etc.
• Perform licensed pesticide applications utilizing Integrated Pest Management best practices.
• Remove invasive non-native vegetation from natural areas.
• Accurately record work performed, including materials, hours, and equipment utilized in the City's asset management software.
• Repair City piers/docks, buildings, and other facilities and equipment.
• Performs interment duties at City's Cemetery with proper training.
• Direct the work of seasonal/contingent employees.

• Performs functions as assigned in the City's emergency response plan in the event of an emergency.
• Support Leadperson in training and development of Groundspersons and seasonal/contingent employees.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Ability to identify and correct safety concerns.
• Ability to operate equipment associated with park operations and be able to train less-experienced workers in the operation of said equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Operation of basic hand power tools.
• Must be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently.
• Positively interact with the public and park user groups, including working with volunteer groups.
• Must be able to deliver high quality service/products in a fast-paced, efficient manner.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Experience: 1 year experience in groundskeeping, landscaping, or closely related field.
• Or: In place of the above requirements, the incumbent may possess any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the individual's knowledge, skill, and ability to proficiently perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above.

• Must have a valid Washington State Driver's license and ability to remain insurable under the City's insurance to operate motor vehicles.
• Skills to use basic mowing equipment.
• Basic knowledge in landscape maintenance and horticulture.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:

• Position works outdoors in all conditions, including inclement weather.
• Must be able to climb in and out of trenches, excavation, and construction equipment, and work at heights and on ladders.
• This position may be responsible for weekend and/or evening shifts as part of the normal work week and may be required to return to the City during off-hours in case of emergency.
• Must be able to lift and move bulky items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• This position operates a variety of equipment which are loud and vibrate while in operation.

Selection Process
Applicants must provide a resume and cover letter describing experience and knowledge of the role. Those who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements for the advertised position(s) will be invited by phone or email to interview. Position open until filled. First review of applicants 15 days after initial post.

Candidates who are selected to interview will be required to complete a criminal background check.

The City of Kirkland is a welcoming community where every person can thrive and grow. We value diversity, inclusion, belonging, and work together to support our community. We do this by solving problems, focusing on the customer, and respecting all people who come into the City whether to visit, live, or work. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to creating a workforce that does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. We encourage qualified applicants of all backgrounds and identities to apply to our job postings. Persons with a disability who need reasonable accommodations in the application or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call 425-587-3210 or Telecommunications Device for the Deaf at 425-587-3111.