Groundsperson (multiple openings)

Salary range listed is based on the 2024 salary rate and subject to salary scale increases in 2025.
The City of Kirkland is currently recruiting for 3 Full-Time Groundsperson opportunities. Two roles will be Ongoing while the third will be Temporary. All applicants to this job posting will be considered for each role and further information regarding job selection will be provided during interviews.
Further information regarding the anticipated schedule is listed as follows:

1. Ongoing Groundsperson - working on the Natural Areas team. Work schedule will be Monday - Friday form 6:30am - 3:00pm November - March and Sunday - Thursday 6:30am - 3:00pm March - November

1. Ongoing Groundsperson - working on the year-round evening shift. Work Schedule will be Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday from 1:00pm - 11:30pm

1. Temporary Two Year Groundsperson - working on the year-round evening shift. Work Schedule will be Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday from 1:00pm - 11:30pm (While this position is currently only approved for the upcoming budget cycle, the department intends to identify ongoing funding in the future.)

• 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 Position requires a resume and cover letter (letter of interest) for consideration of application. Please note how you meet minimum qualifications within the cover letter. Applicants who are selected for testing will be invited by phone or email. Job open until filled with first review of applicants by 15th day of initial post.

Why Kirkland?